Tumour hat occurs in esophagus - tube which connects from throat to the stomach. This causes difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, cough, sudden weight loss and heartburn.

Symptoms & Reports

• Difficulty in swallowing
• Unintentional weight loss
• Chest pain
• Heart burn
• Indigestion
• Coughing
• Hoarse voice

Causes

• The exact cause is unknown. It develops when there is a mutation in the DNA which makes cells grow and divide in an uncontrolled manner.
• Gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Smoking
• Barrett's oesophagus -Having precancerous changes in the cells of the esophagus
• Obesity
• Consumption of alcohol
• Undergoing radiation therapy

Prevention

• Quit smoking
• Stop drinking alcohol
• Exercise regularly
• If gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is experienced, consult doctor immediately
• Consume vitamin rich foods

Screening Options available at JNCHRC

• Endoscopy: To view the position and size of the tumour.
• Imaging tests: Using techniques such as PET scan and ultrasound scan to determine the stages and extent of spread of cancer.
• Biopsy: A sample of the tissue is collected for further examination.