These two photos are example of cancer of the esophagus. This condition is fairly common and has become one of the fastest growing, and most lethal, cancers in the United States. Considered an oddity until the 1970s, the cancer has increased rapidly in the past two decades. It is often found in chronic smokers and in those who have a history of chronic heartburn. Chronic heartburn may lead to a condition called Barrett's Esophagus which increases the risk of cancer 40-fold.
One of the warning signs of cancer is trouble swallowing. Unfortunately, by the time that an esophageal cancer causes trouble swallowing, the cancer is quite large and survival is rare. This is another reason not to smoke. If you have chronic heartburn, see your doctor. We now have excellent treatments to stop acid reflux and heartburn which helps prevent this problem. |
