Esophageal cancer – Signs, underlying causes, and management options
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Esophageal cancer – Signs, underlying causes, and management options

Esophageal cancer presents a formidable challenge due to its often late-stage diagnosis. Considered the sixth most common among all cancer types, esophageal cancer tends to affect more men than women and is usually attributed to many factors, including poor lifestyle habits and genetic factors. Let’s understand its telltale symptoms, underlying causes, and available treatment options. Knowing these will help individuals recognize the signs promptly and enable better management of esophageal cancer. Understanding esophageal cancer Within the elongated and hollow pathway connecting our mouth to the stomach lies the esophagus—a crucial conduit for food. Any genetic mutations or cell abnormalities can lead to the formation and accumulation of cancerous cells. These cells may grow uncontrollably and develop into a tumor, which can then invade the surrounding tissues. In esophageal cancer, the cancerous cells begin to affect the inner lining of the esophageal tube first and gradually spread outside if they are not promptly treated. Esophageal cancer can be of two types, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. The former develops from squamous cells along the esophagus while the latter develops from gland cells. Common signs Difficulty in swallowing This is one of the most common signs of esophageal cancer. The cancerous cells narrow the esophagus as they grow and block the pipe, making it more challenging for foods and liquids to pass through.
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