Other Cancers
Esophogeal Cancer
Esophogeal Cancer is a cancerous tumor of the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that transport food from your
mouth to the stomach. There are two types of esphogeal cancer: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. It is very uncommon in the United States, occurring most often in men over the age of 50 with the following risk factors:
- Alcohol Use
- Obesity
- Poor Nutrition
- Smoking
- Occupational Toxins (including Asbestos)
Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common, accounting for almost ninety percent of cases and has been linked to exposure to asbestos as well as other environmental risk factors. Asbestos fibers may be accidentally ingested and cause scarring in the lining of the esophagus. Clinical studies have shown an increase with patients that have a history of exposure to asbestos, when compared to the general population.
Adenocarcinoma is directly linked with gastroesophogeal reflux disease (GERD) and results from reoccurring stomach reflux, which causes stomach acid to back up into the bottom of the esophagus leading to a cellular change.
Larynx Cancer (Throat Cancer)
The larynx is an organ at the front of your neck. It is also called the voice box. It is about 2 inches long and 2 inches wide. It is above the windpipe (trachea). The larynx plays a role in breathing, swallowing, and talking
The inner walls of the larynx are lined with cells called squamous cells. Almost all laryngeal cancers begin in these cells. These cancers are called squamous cell carcinomas. Larynx or throat cancer has similar risk factors as esophageal cancer including:
- Male Gender
- Alcohol Use
- Smoking
- Occupational Toxins (including Asbestos)