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As with other types of cancer, early detection of esophageal cancer is critical to ensuring a positive treatment outcome.
The challenge is that symptoms of esophageal cancer often do not appear until the cancer is more advanced. In addition, doctors generally do not recommend cancer screening for esophageal cancer. However, making lifestyle changes and monitoring chronic conditions can help prevent esophageal cancer.
You can take steps today to lower your risk of getting esophageal cancer. Lifestyle changes include:
If you have increased risk factors for esophageal cancer, such as GERD or Barrett's esophagus, your doctor will monitor you closely for early signs of esophageal cancer. Monitoring the condition of your esophageal cells may help identify suspicious cells that could lead to esophageal cancer and, if necessary, allow early treatment of those symptoms.