ESOPHAGEAL CANCER AWARENESS

April is finishing. This month we spread awareness about one of the most fastest type of cancer in US: Esophageal adenocarcinoma (one common type of Cancer and the one directly related with Acid reflux disease). The American Cancer Society estimates approximately 17,000 adults will be diagnosed with esophageal cancer this year in the U.S., and almost 16,000 deaths from this disease. Over the past 2 decades, the incidence rate of esophageal cancer has risen faster than any other type of cancer. Because symptoms do not typically develop until cancer is at an advanced stage, early detection must rely on identifying those at risk for the disease. GERD is one of the most common GI diagnosed at  External Care Clinics  and it is distributed widely on general population. It is a progressive chronic disease. 

Designated as Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, the main intention was to make a call to everyone that experience any symptom of GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) at least twice per week (Montreal's Consensus) to take active action to be checked by a MD specialist or at any Esophageal Diseases Center. Some symptoms could be present as "classic" heartburn more than twice/week, belching, burning behind the chest, acid or food returning to the mouth, dysphagia, discomfort, pain or burning in the upper part of the abdomen, nocturnal choking among other things, undesired weight loss, etc. But there are almost 15% of patients without any symptoms or 20% of patients that could be missing the appropriate diagnose due to Chronic mild extra-intestinal Clinical Manifestations as such as pharyngitis, bronchial asthma, damage in intended teeth, halitosis, etc. 

Here in our Center we supported this activity performing appropriate screening for those at risk, those with long-term GERD symptoms, giving medical education and continuing our research activities in the areas of prevention, early detection, and treatment of this deadly disease.

Take action about your health today. See your doctor or call to our Center.

Being preventive is one of the appointments we should never be truly late to arrive.