CAROL’S CANCER PREVENTION CORNER

April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month…..

The esophagus connects your throat to your stomach.  It is where what you swallow travels to your stomach.  Esophageal cancer can be diagnosed anywhere in that tube. There are several forms of esophageal cancer.  The type that is more prevalent in Black people is esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).  Unfortunately, if diagnosed, the survival rate is low.

Some of the symptoms include, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, hoarseness, coughing and chest pain.  Lifestyle changes such as using alcohol moderately or not at all and reducing the use of tobacco products can reduce the risk of developing ESCC.

Get checked if you exhibit symptoms.  Don’t waste time!  Early detection is the key to a better chance of recovery.