Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Screening Program
Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center now offers prevention and screening services for those who may have an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. Screening used for both prevention and detection may result in early diagnosis, at a stage when the cancer is more treatable
Risk Factors
An increased risk could be based on (but not limited to) any of these factors:
• Barrett’s Esophagus – This condition can develop in some people who have chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or inflammation of the esophagus called esophagitis. People with Barrett’s esophagus are more likely to develop adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, but the risk of developing esophageal cancer is still fairly low.ro
• Chronic Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)- symptoms lasting 5 years or more with no previous Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) exam.
• Achalasia - A condition when the lower muscular ring of the esophagus does not relax during swallowing of food. Achalasia increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.
• HPV, Human Papilloma Virus – Researchers are investigating HPV as a risk factor for esophageal cancer, but there is no clear link that squamous cell esophageal cancer is related to HPV.
• Lifestyle Factors - Smoking, obesity and heavy alcohol consumption increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer
Services
Your recommendations may include:
• Ongoing surveillance
• Evaluation and diagnosis using our advanced imaging techniques
• Nutrition and lifestyle changes
• Genetic testing to determine whether you have a genetic mutation associated with
esophageal cancer
How to Get Started
Talk with your doctor about whether you meet the criteria for referral.
If you meet criteria you will be scheduled for a thorough review of your medical records. You will be evaluated by a gastroenterologist. If needed your case will then be reviewed by other specialists which could include surgeons, radiologists, nutritionists and others. A personalized plan will be developed focusing on prevention, early detection and, if necessary, treatment.
Contact Information
For more information, contact our Nurse Navigator at 760-837-8914.
