Single esophageal cancer in Austria: Early detection saves life!

Single esophageal cancer in Austria: Early detection saves life!

esophageal cancer, also known as esophageal carcinoma, is a serious health threat, which is often recognized too late. According to a current analysis of Krone , around 450 new cases are diagnosed in Austria every year. The treatment of this disease is challenging, which is why the early detection and observation of warning signals are crucial. Prim. Johannes Zacherl, who heads the center for esophageal and stomach surgery in St. Josef Hospital in Vienna, emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms at an early stage and taking seriously.

The diagnosis of esophageal cancer includes various methods that are necessary to assess the clinical picture. According to the Cancer information service , positron emission tomography (PET) is carried out in certain cases to search for metastases or to decide whether surgery is necessary. Here, a radioactive marker is injected, which enables the metabolic functions to be made visible in the body. Such investigations are of central importance for determining the further procedure, especially in the case of an advanced tumor.

diagnostic techniques in detail

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

Cancer story in Austria

The relevance of cancer in Austria is also underpinned by the data of the Austrian National Cancer Register, as mentioned in the statistics of Statistics Austria According to the 1969 Cancer Statistics Act, hospitals are obliged to report any cancer and every death. These statistics contain information about the newly diagnosed cases, deaths and probability of survival of cancer patients: inside.

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