1. Cancer on the Rise
Of all the different kinds of cancer diagnosed in the United States each year, no type has increased as dramatically as esophageal cancer. The number of esophageal cancers increased more than six-fold from 1975 to 2001, according to the National Cancer Institute. Although researchers don't know exactly why this cancer is increasing in prevalence, you can avoid some of the known risk factors associated with cancer of the esophagus. Quitting smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation can lower your chances of getting esophageal cancer.
2. An Aspirin a Day
Some people with chronic acid indigestion get Barrett's esophagus, a condition characterized by abnormal changes in the cells that line the esophagus. Doctors know patients with Barrett's esophagus have an increased chance of getting esophageal cancer, but taking aspirin can prevent its development. A research study demonstrated people with Barrett's esophagus who took aspirin regularly reduced their esophageal cancer risk from 14.3 percent to 6.6 percent. Ask your doctor if adding aspirin to your health regimen is appropriate for you.
3. Discomfort You Can't Ignore
If you've experienced problems with acid reflux in the past, you might ignore problems such as burning in the throat or chest area. However, if you find that swallowing becomes difficult or even painful, see a doctor, as this can indicate esophageal cancer. Other symptoms of esophageal cancer include an unintended weight loss, a cough that won't go away or vomiting. The doctor can use imaging tests, such as an X-ray, to examine the esophagus for abnormal areas, and he might take a sample of tissue from the esophagus to study under a microscope.
4. Killing Cancer with Light
Many patients are familiar with the common esophageal cancer treatment modalities of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Patients might also want to ask their doctors about a novel treatment approach that uses light to kill cancer cells, called photodynamic therapy. In this treatment, the doctor gives the patient a drug to make the cancer cells sensitive to light. The doctor then shines a special light on the tumor, and the light destroys the cancer cells by killing its nourishing blood vessels and by oxidizing the cancer cells.
5. Help Yourself with Healthy Foods
Esophageal cancer can affect a patient's nutritional status by making eating uncomfortable. In addition, the side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea or mouth sores, can reduce a patient's appetite. Eating recommendations for cancer patients are different than those for healthy people. Eat foods high in protein and calories to help your body rebuild new tissue. Chop food into small pieces for easier swallowing, and ask your doctor about liquid meal replacements to increase calories in the diet.
