May is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month. Hear first-hand the importance of catching this cancer early.
Meet Walt and his wife Jill and hear his story of early detection. Thankfully, Walt’s stage 1 esophageal cancer was removed completely by a robotic esophagectomy performed by Dr. Chris Reising, a foregut surgeon at Saint Alphonsus.
Esophageal cancer cases have been rapidly increasing with an estimated 22,370 new esophageal cancer diagnosis expected in 2024 by the American Cancer Society. While it often goes undetected in its early stages, there are risk factors and symptoms to be aware of. Chronic acid reflux (GERD), obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, Barrett’s esophagus (a condition resulting from chronic GERD) and a family history of esophageal cancer – all significantly increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Early detection of esophageal cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), unexplained weight loss, and chest pain should see their primary care provider immediately. Don’t have a primary care provider? Schedule with one today.