Today, we bring you crucial information for the early diagnosis of esophageal cancer, a disease known for being a silent killer. With symptoms that are often confused with other health problems, oesophageal cancer is the sixth leading cause of death worldwide.

What is Oesophageal Cancer?

The esophagus is the organ that transfers food from the mouth to the stomach during eating. When this organ is affected by cancer, the symptoms can be subtle, but important to note.

9 Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

1. Difficulty swallowing: Also known as dysphagia, it is one of the first signs and should not be ignored.
2. Nausea: Feeling nauseous frequently can be a sign.
3. Loss of appetite: Lack of interest in eating can indicate problems.
4. Heartburn: Burning sensations in the chest can be more than just acid reflux.
5. Reflux: Return of stomach contents to the esophagus can often be a symptom.
6. Persistent cough: A cough that doesn't improve should be investigated.
7. Rogue Voice: Changes in the voice, especially hoarseness, are warning signs.
8. Pain when swallowing: Pain in the throat or chest when swallowing can be an indication.
9. Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss should be a cause for concern.

Patient Testimonial

In an interview with G1, a patient who faced the disease shared his experience:

"It's a very aggressive cancer and the surgery is really brutal: eight hours. You go through chemotherapy before and after. You have to learn to eat again and you end up having a lot of problems with vomiting, diarrhea and pain. I don't think anyone ever fully recovers."

He also highlighted the silent nature of the disease:

"This disease is often called the 'silent killer' because the symptoms vary greatly and therefore go unnoticed at first."

The Importance of Awareness

Oesophageal cancer must be taken seriously, and awareness of its symptoms is vital. Share this information with others. Who knows, by raising awareness, we could save lives.

Pay attention to the signs and see a doctor if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned. Early detection can make all the difference to the treatment and prognosis of the disease.