The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has issued a stark warning about the escalating burden of oesophageal cancer in the country, urging Ugandans to adopt healthier lifestyles and seek medical attention promptly for suspicious symptoms.
Oesophageal cancer is a disease that affects the food pipe that connects the mouth to the stomach, it has become the fifth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in Uganda.
Experts at UCI say the disease is often detected late, when treatment options are limited and survival chances are significantly reduced.
“Oesophageal cancer remains one of the most aggressive and hard-to-treat cancers when not diagnosed early,” said Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute.
“The challenge we face is that most patients come when the disease is advanced and symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, weight loss, and chest pain are already severe.”
Over the past decade, UCI has documented a steady increase in the number of patients presenting with oesophageal cancer, this disease traditionally affects men aged 40 and above though doctors are now reporting cases among younger people as well.
Risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, frequent intake of very hot beverages, indoor air pollution, and diets low in fruits and vegetables. Underlying health conditions like acid reflux or Barrett’s oesophagus also raise the risk.
“We are increasingly seeing oesophageal cancer cases in younger individuals, which is deeply concerning,” Dr. Orem noted. “This means we urgently need to raise awareness and encourage early medical consultation for symptoms that might otherwise be ignored.”
Early Detection Can Save Lives
Early-stage oesophageal cancer often goes unnoticed because its symptoms can resemble more common ailments like ulcers or throat infections. The UCI advises anyone experiencing persistent swallowing difficulties, unexplained weight loss, or chronic chest or back pain to seek medical evaluation immediately.
“When diagnosed early, oesophageal cancer can be treated effectively through surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches,” said Dr. Orem.
UCI’s Proactive Measures
In response to the growing crisis, UCI has ramped up efforts to enhance early detection and improve patient outcomes. Initiatives include, Strengthening diagnostic services like endoscopy and biopsy, training healthcare providers to recognize and refer suspected cases early, expanding cancer awareness campaigns nationwide and Collaborating with regional hospitals to decentralize cancer services
UCI urges the public to reduce this particular cancer risk by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, eating more fruits and vegetables, steering clear of very hot foods and drinks, and cooking in well-ventilated spaces using clean energy sources like LPG or electricity.
“We call on all Ugandans to take these simple but life-saving steps,” Dr. Orem appealed in the press statement that was released urging media outlets, community leaders, and health workers to join them in spreading awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles.”
With concerted action, UCI believes Uganda can reverse the rising tide of oesophageal cancer, saving countless lives through prevention, early detection, and timely access to treatment.