Oesophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer signs and symptoms

Oesophageal cancer is slow- growing and usually detected in advanced stages, as there may not be any symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms of oesophageal cancer may include:

• difficult or painful swallowing

• new heartburn

• reflux that doesn’t go away

• vomit that has blood in it

• black or bloody stools

• unexplained fatigue

• feeling of choking when swallowing

• discomfort in the upper abdomen particularly when eating

• unexplained weight loss

Causes of oesophageal cancer

Risk factors for oesophageal cancer include:

• smoking tobacco

• alcohol consumption

• diet low in fresh fruit and vegetables

• obesity

• exposure to certain chemical fumes

• family history of gastrointestinal disorders

• having an inherited genetic condition such as Cowden syndrome or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS)

• certain medical conditions such as Barrett's oesophagus or gastro-intestinal reflux disease

Diagnosis of oesophageal cancer

Recommended tests for oesophageal cancer are likely to depend on your symptoms. Tests to diagnose oesophageal cancer may include:

After a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer

After being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, you may feel shocked, upset, anxious or confused. These are normal responses. A diagnosis of a stomach or oesophageal cancer affects each person differently. For most it will be a difficult time, however some people manage to continue with their normal daily activities

You may find it helpful to talk about your treatment options with your doctors, family and friends. Ask questions and seek as much information as you feel you need. It is up to you as to how involved you want to be in making decisions about your treatment.

Find out more about best oesophageal cancer care:

Treatment for oesophageal cancer

The type of treatment you have will depend on the extent of the cancer.

Treatment Team

• GP (General Practitioner) -

  looks after your general health and works with your specialists to coordinate treatment.

• Gastroenterologist -

  specialises in diseases of the digestive system.

• Upper gastrointestinal surgeon -

  specialises in surgery to treat diseases of the upper digestive system.

• Radiation oncologist -

  prescribes and coordinates radiation therapy treatment.

• Medical oncologist -

  prescribes and coordinates the course of chemotherapy.

• Cancer nurse -

  assists with treatment and provides information and support throughout your treatment.

• Other allied health professionals -

  such as social workers, pharmacists, and counsellors

Screening for oesophageal cancer

There is currently no national screening program for oesophageal cancer available in Australia.

Preventing oesophageal cancer

Lifestyle factors such as poor nutrition and being overweight or obese, smoking tobacco and high alcohol consumption significantly increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.

Prognosis of oesophageal cancer

Prognosis refers to the expected outcome of a disease. It is not possible for a doctor to predict the exact course of your cancer. However, your doctor may provide a guide to likely treatment outcomes based on your test results, the extent of the tumour, whether it has spread to the lymph nodes, your age and your overall health. This information will also help your doctor advise on the best course of treatment.

Chances of successful treatment are better if the cancer is diagnosed early. If the cancer is found after it has spread from the primary site then the prognosis is not as good.