Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month

February marks Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer of the oesophagus is the 8th most common cancer worldwide, with around 9000 people in the UK diagnosed each year.

The oesophagus can also be called the gullet. This is the tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach, and is part of the digestive system. Cancer can develop anywhere in the oesophagus. How serious oesophageal cancer is depends on where it is in the oesophagus, how big it is, if it has spread and your general health.

Whilst there are many possible symptoms of this cancer, they can be difficult to spot. Some of the main symptoms of oesophageal cancer to look out for can include:

• difficulty swallowing

• feeling or being sick

• heartburn or acid reflux

• a cough that is not getting better

• loss of appetite or weight loss

• pain in your throat or the middle of your chest, especially when swallowing

• pain or discomfort in your upper tummy, chest or back

These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions. Having them does not definitely mean you have oesophageal cancer, but it's important to talk to a GP and get them checked.

It's not always clear what causes oesophageal cancer. Anyone can get it, but there are some things that may increase your risk:

• if you are over the age of 75 (it's not very common in people under 45)

• if you are a man

• if you have certain conditions, such as long-term, severe acid reflux (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease), or Barrett's oesophagus

• if you're overweight, or smoke or drink too much