Oesophageal Cancer: 

• Oesophageal cancer is a form of cancer that occurs in the oesophagus, the muscular tube that delivers food from the mouth to the stomach.

Risk factors:

• Age: Most oesophageal cancer cases are diagnosed in adults over 50.

Gender: 

• Men are more prone to acquire oesophageal cancer than women.

Smoking:

• People who smoke have an increased risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

Alcohol consumption: 

• Excessive alcohol use raises the risk of oesophageal cancer.

Barrett's oesophagus: 

• People with Barrett's oesophagus have an increased chance of acquiring oesophageal cancer.

Obesity: 

• People who are overweight have an increased risk of acquiring oesophageal cancer.

Family history: 

• People with a family history of oesophageal cancer are more prone to develop the disease.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) (dysphagia)
• Pain in the throat or behind the breastbone
• Unexpected weight loss
• Hoarse voice
• Constant indigestion or heartburn

Diagnosis:

Endoscopy:

•  An endoscope is used to inspect the inside of the oesophagus.

Biopsy: 

• A sample of tissue is obtained and examined under a microscope to detect if cancer cells are present.

CT scan: 

• A CT scan can help to detect the extent of the cancer and if it has spread to other places of the body.

Barium swallow: 

• A barium solution is taken to help define the oesophagus and identify any irregularities.

Treatment:

Surgery: 

• A section of the oesophagus may be removed.

Chemotherapy: 

• Drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

Radiation therapy: 

• High-energy X-rays are utilized to eliminate cancer cells.
• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR): A procedure to remove malignant tissue from the lining of the oesophagus.

Prevention tips:

• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Get frequent check-ups and screening testing.
• Avoid foods that cause heartburn or indigestion.