Early diagnosis of oesophageal cancer improves outcomes

There are two main types of oesophageal cancer, oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC). They present in the same manner and both carry a five-year survival of only 16%. In the UK there is a 2:1 male to female ratio for oesophageal cancer. Peak incidence at presentation is in the 65-75 age group, with 95% of cases presenting in those over 50. Smoking is a major risk factor for both types and is linked to an estimated 66% of cases in the UK. OSCC is linked to alcohol, smoking, and chewing betel quid. OAC is associated with the presence of GORD, and its duration, and obesity (especially increased waist circumference). Oesophageal cancer commonly presents with dysphagia or odynophagia. This can be associated with weight loss and vomiting. All patients with recent onset dysphagia should be referred for rapid access endoscopy. Referral for urgent endoscopy should still be considered in the presence of dysphagia regardless of previous history or medication. Dysphagia is not always present so all patients with alarm symptoms should be considered for endoscopy. NICE recommends referral for urgent direct access upper GI endoscopy to assess for oesophageal cancer for patients with dysphagia or aged 55 and over with weight loss and any of the following: upper abdominal pain; reflux; dyspepsia.