Esophageal cancer in Austria: early detection saves lives!

Esophageal cancer in Austria: early detection saves lives!

Esophageal cancer, also known as esophageal carcinoma, poses a serious health threat that is often detected too late. According to a recent analysis by crown Around 450 new cases are diagnosed in Austria every year. Treating this condition is challenging, which is why early detection and attention to warning signs are crucial. Prim. Johannes Zacherl, who heads the Center for Esophageal and Stomach Surgery at St. Josef Hospital Vienna, emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms early and taking them seriously.

The diagnosis of esophageal cancer includes various procedures that are necessary to accurately assess the clinical picture. According to that Cancer Information Service In certain cases, positron emission tomography (PET) is performed to look for metastases or to decide whether surgery is necessary. A radioactive marker is injected, which makes it possible to visualize the metabolic functions in the body. Such examinations are of central importance for determining further action, especially in the case of an advanced tumor.

Diagnostic techniques in detail

In addition to PET, an X-ray examination may be necessary to identify complications such as fistulas. Fistulas are unwanted passages between hollow organs, for example between the esophagus and the trachea. This exam uses a water-soluble contrast agent to ensure a clear view of the organs. Flexible bronchoscopy is also used to examine the airways in more detail. A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the trachea, which is often combined with an endobronchial ultrasound.

For a complete diagnosis, a laparoscopy may also be necessary to check the abdominal cavity for cancer involvement. This minimally invasive technique is usually performed under general anesthesia and requires a short hospital stay of one to two days. During laparoscopy, a rigid tube is inserted through an incision in the abdominal wall and the abdominal cavity is filled with gas to provide better visibility.

Cancer history in Austria

The relevance of cancer in Austria is also supported by the data from the Austrian National Cancer Registry, as shown in the statistics from Statistics Austria mentioned. According to the Cancer Statistics Act of 1969, hospitals are obliged to report every cancer case and every death. These statistics include information about newly diagnosed cases, deaths and survival probabilities of cancer patients.

The annual publication of the key figures contributes to health policy as a basis for control and to research as a valuable source of information. The analysis and recording of cancer is therefore not only important for the medical community, but also for the development of prevention and treatment strategies in Austria.