Esophageal Cancer

Episode Overview:

Esophageal Cancer. It’s a dangerous disease with a 5-year survival rate at roughly 20%.   Although many people with this cancer will eventually die from this disease, treatment has improved and survival rates are getting better.  On this episode, Dr. Nandi interviews a man recently diagnosed with esophageal cancer who shares his personal journey including the symptoms he experienced and his treatment.   Along with guest experts, Dr. Nandi discusses what esophageal cancer is and the latest treatments for it.  They’ll also discuss Barrett’s Esophagus, the precancerous condition that increases your risk of esophageal cancer.  Dr. Nandi speaks with a gentleman who has Barrett’s along with his brother and mother.  We’ll also hear from a Dietitian who shares healthy eating tips for those with esophageal cancer.

Partha’s RX:

1. Stop smoking!  It will lower your risk for many cancers including esophageal cancer

2. Watch what you drink.  One to two drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women.

3. Eat a diet high in green and yellow vegetables, and a variety of fruits.  To manage symptoms of GERD, avoid chocolate, peppermint, fatty foods, coffee and alcoholic beverages as they may trigger reflux and heartburn.

4. And lastly, taking aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce the risk for esophageal cancer. But don’t start a new medicine without talking to your doctor.

Guests Including:

James Butzine, Esophageal Cancer Patient

Kevin Stemberger, Barrett’s Esophagus Patient

Dr. George Howard, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Dr. Jules Lin, MD, FACS, Asst. Professor of Thoracic Surgery, Univ. of Michigan

Anna Taylor, MS, RD, LD, Dietician, Cleveland Clinic