Do Canberrans need education and support?

Pete's Points

Oesophageal Cancer - Do Canberrans need education and support?

Twenty years ago almost all oesophageal cancers were "squamous cell carcinomas" arising in the upper third of oesophagus or gullet. The risk of squamous cell carcinoma is almost entirely explained by tobacco and alcohol consumption.

In the late 1980s it became apparent that many developed countries were experiencing an increase in "adenocarcinoma" of the oesophagus. These cancers arise in the lower third of the oesophagus, that is, near the stomach, and are not related to smoking or alcohol. Instead, they are related to obesity and gastro-oesophageal reflux (acids coming up the gullet).

Adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus is not a common cancer, but its sharp rate of increase, related to the increasing levels of obesity in our community may mean that this cancer becomes an ever more important and prevalent one in the next few years.

Oesophageal cancer is renowned for poor survival. Less than 20% of patients are alive five years after diagnosis.

In Canberra, we are fortunate to have some gastroenterologists, surgeons and oncologists who are very familiar with this disease and are expert in its treatment.

What we do not have, is a support group for the patients and for their carers.

Should there be one to help spread the message about this disease and its impacts and provide support for those people who are afflicted?

The sharp increase suggests that we should. Because of the small numbers of people afflicted, this group should then join up with support groups in Victoria and NSW and share information for the mutual benefit of all.