Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Dubai
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What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal Cancer is a serious illness where abnormal cells in the esophagus, the tubular organ connecting the throat and stomach, start to grow uncontrollably. It affects different areas of the esophagus, including the upper, middle, and lower parts. This can affect the ability to swallow and cause significant health complications.
Esophageal cancer is the 8th most common type of cancer globally and the 7th most prevalent cancer in men.
Esophageal cancer can grow silently for years and might not show any obvious signs. For many patients, the disease may remain undiagnosed until it reaches a later stage, which is why early screening and awareness of esophageal cancer symptoms are crucial.
Types of Esophageal Cancer
There are several types of esophageal cancer, but adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common:
- Adenocarcinoma: Primarily affects the lower part of the esophagus and is more common in individuals with Barrett’s esophagus.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Affects the upper and middle sections of the esophagus and is commonly linked to risk factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer
Early esophageal cancer symptoms might not be noticeable. As the cancer advances, individuals may experience symptoms such as:
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Chronic cough
- Hoarse voice
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Unintentional weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Pressure, burning, or pain in the chest
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- Black stool due to bleeding (uncommon)
What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Esophageal Cancer?
The exact cause of esophageal cancer is unclear, but several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include:
- Advancing age (higher risk after 50)
- Gender (men are more prone to esophageal cancer)
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Chronic conditions such as GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Obesity and poor diet
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience esophageal cancer symptoms like difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or persistent heartburn, it’s essential to seek medical advice.
What is the first sign of esophageal cancer?
Difficulty swallowing or feeling food “sticking” in the throat are common early signs. A doctor will help with diagnosis and may conduct necessary tests for early detection.
How is Esophageal Cancer Diagnosed?
If esophageal cancer is suspected, the following tests might be performed:
- Endoscopy: A procedure where a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed down the throat to examine the esophagus for any abnormalities.
- Barium Swallow Study: A radiological test where the patient swallows a barium drink, which helps highlight the esophagus in X-ray imaging.
- CT Scan: A computer-based imaging test that provides detailed images of the chest and abdomen to detect whether the cancer has spread.
- MRI Scan: Provides detailed images of soft tissues to evaluate the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread.
- Blood Tests: Measures red blood cell counts and liver function, which may show if the esophageal cancer has spread to the liver.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Dubai
Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on various factors such as cancer type, size, location, and stage, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy: Often used in combination with surgery to shrink the tumor or destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery. Chemotherapy offers advanced treatment options that target the cancer more effectively.
- Surgery: If diagnosed early, surgery may involve the removal of the tumor or the entire esophagus (esophagectomy).
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. This can be used to shrink tumors before surgery or to relieve symptoms in advanced stages of esophageal cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Targets specific molecules within cancer cells to stop them from growing and spreading.
- Immunotherapy: Strengthens the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells, especially when esophageal cancer has advanced.
Patient Testimonial - Esophageal Cancer Treated with Laparoscopic Surgery and Chemotherapy
Mohammed Ashraf began experiencing difficulty swallowing, feeling like food was getting stuck after eating. An endoscopy at another hospital revealed that he had esophageal cancer. Unsatisfied with the treatment options presented to him, he sought the expertise of Dr. Ahmed Hassn, Consultant General, Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon, at King’s Cancer Care Centre.
After thoroughly reviewing Mohammad’s scans, Dr. Hassan was confident that the tumor could be successfully removed through a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. The surgery was performed safely and minimally invasively, resulting in a high success rate.
Just 30 days post-operation, Mohammed felt much better and could comfortably eat soft foods. He is now continuing his cancer treatment and remains optimistic about his recovery.
FAQs about Esophageal Cancer Care in Dubai
Recovery depends on treatment type:
After surgery: Hospital stay of 7–14 days is common, followed by several weeks of recovery. Patients may need to adapt to a modified diet, starting with liquids and soft foods.
Post-chemotherapy/radiation: Fatigue, nausea, and swallowing difficulties may occur but improve over time.
Nutritional support: Dieticians often help patients rebuild strength through supplements and high-calorie meals.
Follow-up care: Regular scans and endoscopies are essential to detect recurrence.
Yes. Dubai is known for its world-class healthcare system, international accreditations, and experienced oncologists. Patients have access to modern techniques, minimally invasive surgeries, and personalized treatment plans.
Doctors classify esophageal cancer into stages (0 to IV) based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and spread. Staging helps determine the best treatment plan.
Stage 0: Abnormal cells only in the inner lining (high-grade dysplasia).
Stage I: Cancer is in the esophageal wall but hasn’t spread to lymph nodes.
Stage II: Tumor has grown deeper or spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III: Larger tumor with more lymph node involvement, may affect nearby tissues.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs (lungs, liver, etc.).
Staging guides treatment choices and survival outlook.
While all three affect the digestive/upper airway tract:
Esophageal cancer starts in the esophagus.
Stomach cancer originates in the stomach lining.
Throat cancer begins in the pharynx or larynx.
Each has different symptoms, risk factors, and treatment strategies.
Yes. Esophageal cancer is often aggressive because:
The esophagus has a rich lymphatic system, making spread to lymph nodes common.
It often goes undetected until later stages.
This is why early detection through screening is critical, especially for high-risk individuals.
How King’s Cancer Care Centre Can Help with Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Dubai
At King’s Cancer Care Centre in Dubai, we offer comprehensive care for esophageal cancer. With a team of specialists, surgeons, and oncologists, we provide the best possible treatment in a supportive, comfortable environment.
As the Best Cancer Hospital, our team is dedicated to offering state-of-the-art chemotherapy, advanced surgical techniques, and personalized cancer treatment plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs. From diagnosis to post-treatment care, we are with you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any esophageal cancer symptoms or is in a high-risk group for esophageal cancer, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at King’s Cancer Care Centre in Dubai. Our multidisciplinary team is here to provide expert care tailored to your needs.