Esophageal Cancer Prevention
Duration
If not detected, esophageal cancer can continue to grow and spread to almost all parts of the body. The probability of survival increases dramatically if the disease is detected early.
The duration and type of treatment the patient will depend on factors such as age and general health, how widespread the cancer is and how the body responds to treatment and is able to tolerate it. Treatments may take several months. If surgery is performed, the recovery period typically lasts about three to four weeks and perhaps longer.
Prevention
Since it is possible to avoid some risk factors of esophageal cancer, you can follow these steps to reduce that risk:
- not consume snuff in any form if you smoke or use snuff, find the necessary help to quit
- never eat anything that could damage your digestive tract
- if you drink alcohol, drink in moderation, most experts recommend that women drink no more than one drink per day and men no more than two per day
- If you suffer from heartburn, talk to your doctor about how to prevent heartburn and how to treat it, if necessary.
- If you have symptoms of chronic reflux or heartburn, esophagoscopy may be performed to detect Barrett’s esophagus. If you have Barrett’s esophagus, some doctors recommend periodic examinations or biopsies to detect problems before they become cancer.