Are you looking for the best esophageal cancer treatment in Mumbai, India?
Like other cancers, esophageal cancer is mostly diagnosed at advanced stages because early symptoms are mild or unnoticeable. Therefore, one needs expert-driven care for such cancers for better disease management and to enhance the quality of life.
India is now emerging as the top global destination for advanced and affordable cancer care. Here, you can get advanced care from experienced oncologists who are highly trained to provide cutting-edge treatment facilities using high-end equipment and personalized strategies.
With the presence of state-of-the-art hospitals and multidisciplinary onco-care expertise, Mumbai stands out as a leading center for global-standard cancer care. Building on this legacy of cancer-care excellence, the Asian Heart Institute is expanding its scope to deliver advanced and effective esophageal cancer treatment in Mumbai.
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What is Esophageal Cancer?
Cancer of the esophagus begins with abnormal cell multiplication in the esophagus, or food pipe. It's a long, hollow tube connecting the throat to the stomach. Cancer in this part of the gut often starts in the cells of the inner lining of the esophagus. This type of cancer is more prevalent in men, especially those who are chronic smokers and alcoholics.Surgery remains the mainstay of esophageal cancer treatment. Radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of the two may be planned as per circumstances. In some cases, oncologists choose immunotherapy and targeted therapy to eliminate the cancer cells.
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What are the Causes of Esophageal Cancer?
Although the exact cause of esophageal cancer remains unclear, a few factors increase the risk of acquiring it. These are- Advancing age (>60 years)
- Barrett’s esophagus (abnormal changes in the esophageal lining)
- Chronic acid reflux
- Chronic heartburn
- History of head and neck cancer
- Certain inherited disorders, like achalasia
- Infection with Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Excessive body weight
- Excessive and long-term alcohol intake
- Long-term tobacco use
- Long-term exposure to certain toxic substances, like solvents used for dry cleaning, paints/varnishes, and mineral spirits
What are the Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer?
It may take years for the symptoms of esophageal cancer to manifest. The flexibility of the esophagus allows it to stretch to swallow down even large bites of food. As a result, a tumor may also remain hidden in your esophagus without producing noticeable symptoms in the early stages. It is possible that you may not notice any changes until the tumor develops large enough to obstruct your esophagus, making it difficult to swallow. The following are the symptoms of esophageal cancers:- Heartburn
- Unintentional weight loss
- Chest pain
- Chronic and persistent cough
- Voice hoarseness
- Pain in the throat or back (behind the breastbone or between the shoulder blades)
- Frequent vomiting
- Coughing up blood
What Tests Help Make an Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis?
Based on your medical history and symptom analysis, your doctor may advise you the following tests to diagnose the esophageal cancer:- Barium swallow study
- Imaging tests may include bronchoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, CT, MRI, and positron emission tomography scans (PET scans)
- Biopsy
What are the Advanced Esophageal Cancer Treatment Options?
Cancer is commonly treated with surgery. Other therapies help reduce tumors before surgery and eliminate any remaining cancerous cells after it. Some treatments are advised to relieve symptoms. The following are the treatment options:| Treatment Type | Description |
| Esophagectomy | This surgery removes some or most of your esophagus and surrounding tissue. It’s a treatment for early-stage cancer. |
| Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) | This is a minimally invasive procedure to remove precancerous or cancerous polyps or very small tumors. |
| Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) | This procedure removes tumors in the mucous lining of your esophagus. |
| Endoscopic laser therapy | This treatment uses a laser to destroy cancerous tissue in your esophagus. You may be eligible for this treatment if a tumor is blocking your esophagus and preventing you from swallowing. |
| Photodynamic therapy (PDT) | This treatment uses lasers to activate medication. This medication triggers chemical reactions that kill cancerous cells. It’s a treatment for early-stage cancer or to help manage cancer symptoms. |
| Radiation therapy | You may have radiation therapy before surgery to shrink a tumor or after surgery to remove any remaining cancer cells. You may also have this treatment to ease symptoms if cancer has spread to other areas of your body. |
| Chemotherapy | Oncologists may use chemotherapy along with radiation therapy before and after surgery. It’s also a treatment when cancer has spread to other areas of your body. In this case, chemotherapy may support a good quality of life and help you live longer. |
| Targeted therapy | Some cancerous esophagus cells carry an unusually high amount of certain proteins or genes. These help cancer cells grow. There are treatments for some of these proteins or genes that can target and kill the cancer cells. |
| Immunotherapy | This treatment targets your immune system’s response to cancer cells. You may have this treatment before or after surgery, or if your cancer has spread and surgery isn’t an option. |
Conclusion
Esophageal cancer often exhibits symptoms that may go undetected until the tumors develop and spread. Nowadays, many novel therapies are available that have brought hope. This treatment offers a chance of recovery for many patients suffering from this type of cancer. Professional care and well-planned treatment can help you in managing esophageal cancer. The oncologists at the Asian Heart Institute have years of experience and outstanding expertise in managing such cases.Get personalized advice from the best esophageal cancer specialist in Mumbai at the Asian Heart Institute. Book your consultation today.
FAQs
Q1: What is the success rate of esophageal cancer treatment in India?A: The success of the esophageal cancer treatment in India greatly depends on the stage of cancer and the type & duration of treatment. Early-stage esophageal cancer shows a better success rate.
Q2: What advanced technology is used for esophageal cancer treatment in India?
A: Many cancer care hospitals in India employ advanced technologies such as high-resolution endoscopy, PET scans, minimally invasive surgery, precision radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Q3: What is the cost of esophageal cancer treatment in India?
A: The cost varies based on the cancer stage, treatment type, and hospital. Overall, treatment in India is more affordable compared to many other countries.
