The disease affects the digestive tract responsible for bringing food from the throat to the stomach
Esophageal cancer is a disease that affects the digestive tract responsible for bringing food to the throat to the stomach. With the generally rapid and silent evolution, it is generally diagnosed in advanced phases, making the treatment difficult and reducing the chances of healing. A recent case that attracted attention was that of the former president of Uruguay, José “Pepe” Mujica, who died at the age of 69 due to the condition, diagnosed in 2024.
The incidence of the tumor in esophagus He grew up in Brazil. According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), more than 11,000 new cases are estimated in the country, with the highest predominance among men of over 50 years. “This is a silent cancer, often diagnosed late, which makes the treatment difficult and worsens the prognosis of Dr. Ramon Andrade de Mello, oncologist of the Paulist Medical Center Clinic Brazil-São Paulo Paupolo.
According to the doctor, good habits can also help avoid the emergence of the disease. “Although genetic and environmental factors have important roles in the development of the disease, there are at least three modifiable behaviors that can correctly reduce the risk: avoid alcohol consumption, quit smoking and maintain a diet rich in fruit, vegetables”, comments.
Cigarette and alcohol increases the possibilities of esophagus cancer
The most common type of illness in Brazil is spinocellular carcinoma, associated with direct damage to the esophageal mucosa, the channel that connects the mouth to stomach. “The cigarette, in isolation, is one of the greatest attackers of this tissue. Tobacco smoke contains toxic and carcinogenic substances which, if inhaled and swallowed, come into direct contact with the esophageal coating, promoting cellular mutations over time. Studies show that the risk of developing this cancer can be fed to five times higher in smokers than in the non -fumoker.
But the cigarette is not the only one. Alcohol improves this irritative effect for the esophagus covering. “Hitanol is metabolized in acetaldehyde, a highly toxic substance and classified as carcinogen. When alcohol consumption is associated with smoking, the risks are not added – they multiply. The research shows that the combination of two habits can increase the risk of esophagus more than 30 times, compared to individuals who do not smoke or drink,” says Dr. Ramon. “
Prevent esophageal cancer
The diet also plays a crucial role in the prevention of this disease. According to Dr. Ramon Andrade de Mello, studies show that diets with low consumption of fruit, vegetables and vegetables increase the risk of cancer. These foods are sources of fiberAntioxidants and vitamins, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress – factors associated with the development of various tumors.
“On the contrary, diets with excessive ultra -elaborate foods, poor in nutrients and rich in sodium, dyes and preservatives, contribute to the inflammation of the digestive tract and compromise the regeneration of the esophageal tissue,” says the doctor.
Although not all cases of disease can be avoided, quit smoking, avoid alcohol and adopt healthy diet are effective measures of prevention Primary, according to Dr. Ramon Andrade de Mello.
“The good news is that even among the people who have smoked or drunk for long periods, the interruption of these habits still offers benefits. The reduction of the risk of cancer begins in the early years after stopping smoking or drinking and continues to fall over time. Preventing esophageal cancer does not require drastic or inaccessible measures”, he says.
The oncologist explains that prevention does not require drastic or inaccessible measures. “These are, above all, choices consistent in everyday life: changing the cigarette with a walk, replacing alcohol with natural juices and including more vegetables on the plate. These are simple changes, but which, with solid scientific bases, can represent a significant difference in long -term health”, underlines.
Treatment of esophageal cancer
The treatment of Cancer The esophagus involves different approaches, which vary according to the stage of the disease, the type of cancer, the position in the organ and the patient’s health and health conditions. “In many cases, especially when the diagnosis is performed in initial or locally advanced phases, a partial or total esophageal surgical intervention, indicated. It is a complex procedure, since the esophagus is a delicate organ and close to vital structures, which requires advanced surgical techniques and intensive posicine care”, says Dr. Ramon and Mello.
The oncologist explains that chemotherapy also helps in treatment. “Chemotherapy also plays an important role in the treatment and can be administered before the intervention, to reduce the size of the tumor (neoadiuvant), or then, with the aim of eliminating possible cancer cells (adjuvant). In the most advanced tumors, when surgery is not practicable, chemotherapy is not used to control the progression of the disease and alleviate the symptoms,” says the doctor. ”
Radiotherapy, in turn, is usually combined with chemotherapy. “In recent years, more modern therapies have expanded therapeutic options, especially in the case of metastatic cancer or resistant to treatments conventional. Immunotherapy, which stimulates the immune system to recognize and combat cancer cells, has shown promising results. In addition, also the target therapies that work on specific mutations, such as Her2 in some adenocarcinomas, have been incorporated into the treatment protocols, offering more personalized approaches “, adds the doctor.
According to the expert, the junction of good habits and palliative care is essential for the treatment of esophageal cancer. “Since the disease often affects swallowing, many patients need interventions to ensure adequate diet, such as esophageal probes or prostheses. Multiprofessional teams, including nutritionists, psychologists and professionals of palliative care, are fundamental to preserve the quality of life during the patient’s journey”, concludes Dr. Ramon and Mello.
By Maria Claudia Amoroso
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
