January 30, 2014
High-risk patients don’t always get endoscopic examination for Barrett’s esophagus, cancer, say researchers.
Outpatient Surgery Magazine
Men aged 65 years and older are much more likely to suffer the complications of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal, gastric or duodenal cancer, but they’re much less likely to undergo endoscopic screenings that can detect these complications, according to recent research.
Go to full story in Outpatient Surgery here.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
January 28, 2014
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy
During this procedure, a doctor uses an endoscope to see the upper GI tract which consists of the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine. An endoscope is a lightweight, flexible, hollow instrument equipped with a lens which allows the doctor to see these internal parts. Examining the esophagus, the doctor is looking for any abnormalities; inflammation, areas which have been irritated, abnormal growths or cancer. The procedure is generally preformed while a patient is under sedation. Sedation is not required for all patients as some receive minimal to no sedation. Doctors utilize endoscopy procedures to also detect ulcers, abnormal growths in the stomach or first part of small intestines, bowel obstructions or hiatal hernias. There are small risks associated with an endoscopy such as bleeding, tissue infection and tears in the gastrointestinal tract. These are rare instances, the Mayo Clinic reports that the latter occurs in about three to five out of every 10,000 upper endoscopies.
X-Ray
Also, known as a barium swallow or esophagram, is an upper gastroentestional series of X-rays used to examine the esophagus for any abnormal conditions. This test requires patient to drink a thick liquid that temporarily coats the lining of the esophagus. This will highlight the lining of the esophagus clearly on the X-rays to help better detect any abnormality.
Biopsy
If during an endoscopy, doctors finds any suspicious tissue, they will use an endoscope (defined above) passed down the throat into the esophagus to collect a sample of the tissue. This tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory which will look for cancer cells.
Talk to your doctor if you experience heartburn more than twice a week, as that can be a symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), which is one of the major risk factor for esophageal cancer. Patients who experience GERD symptoms for more than five years and have other risk factors associated with esophageal cancer, such as being overweight or smoking, are at an elevated risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Unfortunately, esophageal cancer is often detected late because symptoms do not occur until the cancer has progressed.
This is why we stress the importance of speaking to your doctor about your frequent GERD symptoms and discuss the different ways in which they can be controlled. For many, lifestyle changes, such as monitoring food and beverage ‘reflux triggers’ and losing weight, can help alleviate acid reflux. (Click here to read more tips on how to manage acid reflux.)
Too often, esophageal cancer is diagnosed at advanced and/or incurable stages due to the late onset of symptoms. This makes the cancer difficult if not impossible to treat and often results in 80% of patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer dying within the first year.
Let’s work together to change the statistics regarding esophageal cancer. If you are experiencing frequent acid reflux, consult your doctor and be sure to also share this message with your family and friends. Click on the share buttons below to spread the word and save lives!
Gastro.net.au
MayoClinic
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
January 16, 2014
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) elevates one’s risk of developing esophageal cancer (adenocarcinoma.) The risk further increases based on the severity of symptoms (ie. heartburn and regurgitation from the stomach) and how long it goes without being properly treated.
The United States National Library of Medicine defines GERD as “a condition in which the stomach contents (food or liquid) leak backwards from the stomach into the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach).” This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle between the esophagus and stomach, becomes damaged or weakened.
Esophageal cancer adenocarinoma is the fastest growing cancer in the United States and also one of the deadliest cancers. Since the cancer is often detected late, the survival rate is extremely low. Therefore, it is crucial to speak to your doctor if you or someone you know is suffering from frequent heartburn and/or regurgitation.
There are many tests that can be performed to accurately diagnose GERD. Too often, PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) are prescribed by doctors for the treatment of GERD. PPIs function are to only manage GERD symptoms they do not repair the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Unfortunately, these medications do not relieve all patients from their GERD symptoms and they are not intended to be taken for a long period of time as they can cause serious long-term health effects.
Our friends at RefluxMD put together a fantastic article which describes the various ways your doctor can assess your condition. Don’t ignore frequent heartburn! Take the very first step in managing your GERD symptoms by reading this article. Click here to learn more.
We are thankful for resources such as our friends at RefluxMD. By working together, we can continue to raise awareness of esophageal cancer and dangerous risk factors such as GERD.
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Posted by salgiblogs
November 24, 2013
Thanksgiving, a time for family and friends to gather together, share their thanks and enjoy a delicious and abundant feast. During the holiday season, it can be easy to overindulge in favorite foods and subsequently, for many, to experience heartburn.
The week of Thanksgiving has been dedicated to raising awareness for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, known more commonly as GERD.
Occasional heartburn does not typically cause major concern, as millions of Americans experience it at some point in their lives. However, persistent heartburn which typically occurs two or more times a week should not be taken lightly, as it could be a sign of chronic acid reflux or GERD.
The United States National Library of Medicine defines GERD as “a condition in which the stomach contents (food or liquid) leak backwards from the stomach into the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach).” This occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle between the esophagus and stomach, becomes damaged or weakened.
If not properly treated, long-term sufferers of GERD can develop serious medical conditions which include chronic cough or hoarseness, esophagitis, bleeding, scarring or ulcers of the esophagus and Barrett’s esophagus, an abnormal change in the lining of the esophagus that can potentially raise the risk of developing esophageal cancer.
While esophageal cancer only makes up 2% of all cancer deaths in the United States, it has increased over 400% in the past 20 years and is one of the most lethal types of cancers; Stage IV has a daunting survival rate of only 5%. When caught in the early stages, patients have a higher rate of survival, as there are more treatment options available.
President of The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation, whose father suffered from chronic acid reflux for years and passed away from esophageal cancer says “If you have frequent heartburn, don’t ignore it or just take a pill. Talk to your doctor about all of your options.”
To read the full article published in GoLocalProv click here: Healthy Living: GERD Awareness Week- November 24-30
Please use the buttons below to share this post and ‘Like’ us on Facebook, too!
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
November 22, 2013
New research shows that central adiposity (an accumulation of fat in the abdomen area) is associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. This research was published in the November issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Being overweight, particularly in the mid-section, elevates not only the risk of developing esophageal cancer, as this new research states, but a number of other diseases, proven in other studies. Below are some tips to help reduce “belly fat” and improve overall health and wellness.
Eat one less cookie a day
Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD, suggests in his book, YOU on a Diet: The Owner’s Manual for Waist Management to reduce your caloric intake by just 100 calories per day. That means, eat one less cookie, candy bar, can/bottle of soda or piece of holiday pie. This seemingly small change can have a huge impact. Dr. Oz suggests that it may help you to lose about 12 pounds per year*.
Get moving
Refer to Sir Isaac Newton’s Frist Law of Motion: “An object at rest stays at rest and an object in motion stays in motion.” Basically, the more you exercise the more you will burn and the more you rest, the more you will gain. Whether you are a triathlete or a couch potato, workout at your speed.
Count sheep
Studies have shown that when we are tired and are not sleeping properly, it negatively affects our appetite, which causes us not only to gain weight but make improper food choices. Keep your sleeping area calming, avoid technology right before bed and make sure you are getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night.
Build muscle
Strengthening your core (abdominal) and lower back muscles will help you shed belly fat fast. Remember to always practice safe lifting while exercising. It may also be helpful to consider working with a personal trainer for even just a few lessons to make sure you are working out right and to avoid injury. Ladies, muscle burns fat. Pay no attention to the myth that if lifting weights will cause your body to transform into a bodybuilder’s.
Eat breakfast, lunch, dinner AND snacks!
According to research, eating healthy meals and snacks regularly throughout the day will not only benefit your health but keep you more focused and energized. When we do not eat regularly, we make poor food choices and our body can go into “starvation-mode”, which can cause it to hold on to more fat. Dr. Oz recommends his patients avoid eating processed foods because they can cause you to still be hungry soon after you’re done brushing the crumbs away.
Ditch the elevator
For many, the majority of our day is spent sedentary. Whether we are at a desk in front of a computer at work, watching TV, playing video or online games, eating meals or driving in the car, we sit, sit and sit some more. The best way to burn extra calories every day is to move around more. It sounds simple, but you can burn a significant amount of calories by taking extra trips to the water cooler during the day at work, parking your car further away from the door, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator and even walking a bit further with your dog. Here are some tips to “workout” when you are at work!
Keep healthy snacks on hand
Pack healthy snacks and take them with you when you are on-the-go. Choose foods like almonds, celery, carrots, greek yogurt, berries and whole grain crackers. Keeping healthy options on-hand can help you avoid the dreaded vending machine and quiet your grumbling stomach. Again, sometimes when we are hungry, we end up making poor food choices.
Stress less
Easier said than done, right? Reduce your daily stress by meditating, practicing yoga, taking a walk, reading a book or sipping tea. Stress affects many aspects of our mental, emotional and physical health. Check out our Pinterest board “Namaste” for some great Yoga tips.
Don’t give up
Author Louis Sachar once stated ‘It is better to take many small steps in the right direction than to make a great leap forward only to stumble backward.’ Keep going, don’t give up and remember to be proud of all your achievements, no matter how big or how small. Positive thinking will keep you going through the good times and the bad.
As always, consult your physician before making any changes to your diet, exercise or lifestyle. The aforementioned is for informational purposes only and should not be misconstrued for medical advice.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
October 17, 2013
A new study associates physical activity with a reduced risk of esophageal cancer. The study was presented by Mayo Clinic researchers at the American College of Gastroenterology’s Annual Scientific Meeting earlier this month in San Diego.
Siddharth Singh, M.B.B.S., the study’s lead researcher stated “…the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma has been rapidly rising. This increase may be partly attributable to the obesity epidemic.”
A healthy and active lifestyle can help to reduce a number of ailments and illnesses. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that healthy adults ages 18-65 get 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise five days a week.
Here are 8 simple ways to get some exercise in everyday:
- Take a long walk with your family and/or dog.
- Do as many sets of 30 jumping jacks as you can. 10 sets can burn up to 300 calories!
- Park your car further away from the entrance when going to work or running errands.
- Choose to take the stairs and ditch that elevator.
- Jump rope for 30 minutes. Take short breaks in between for maximum caloric burn.
- Keep your sneakers with you at work and sneak in a brisk walk during lunch.
- Watch your favorite TV show or movie from the treadmill or elliptical instead of your couch.
- Grab a friend and take a fun dance class together like Zumba or Salsa.
Whatever you form of exercise you choose, just keep moving.
While exercising is not always enjoyable, try to make the most out of it.
To help the time go by, bring a friend or listen to a music playlist while you exercise. Don’t forget to keep an exercise journal to track your progress. Pull the journal out on days where you lack motivation. Seeing your progress can help keep you on track.
Of course, if you have not exercised in some time or are concerned with your overall health, consult with your physician before starting any exercise routine.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
August 28, 2013
The American Gastroenterological Association issued an article regarding the importance of maintaining a healthy diet to reduce the risk of Esophageal Cancers. The September issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology stated that one’s entire diet should consist of healthy foods and nutrients.¹
They further stress that a Mediterranean diet which originated from southern Italy, Spain, Greece and neighboring lands. The diet consists of a low consumption of meats and a higher intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes, olive oil, red wine and dairy.²
Read more HERE about the correlation between a healthy diet and risk associated with esophageal cancer.
Source: American Gastroenterological Association (AGA)
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Posted by salgiblogs
August 27, 2013
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation has just joined the Instagram community.
Check out our page and be sure to “follow” us!
Looking forward to sharing great photos with you all!
Follow us on Instagram!
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Posted by salgiblogs
August 26, 2013
Acid reflux is one of the major risk factors associated with esophageal cancer. Common misconceptions about the acid reflux disease can leave sufferers feeling hopeless and not to mention uncomfortable.
There are ways to manage your acid reflux out taking daily medications.
Watch RefluxMD‘s video “Five Things You Must Know About Reflux Disease.”
To determine your reflux stage and to read RefluxMD’s personalized recommendations, click here to take their assessment.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Leave a Comment » | The Salgi Foundation - Esophageal Cancer Awareness, Early Detection & Research | Tagged: acid, acid reflux, acid reflux disease, cancer, disease, esophageal, esophageal cancer, exercise, fit, fitness, gerd, health, healthy., heartburn, obesity, reflux disease, reflux. | Permalink
Posted by salgiblogs
August 20, 2013
Obesity is one of the major risk factors associated with esophageal cancer and a slew of other diseases. It has recently been reported that Mexico has taken first place among nations with the highest obesity rate and bumped The United States to second place. However, obesity rates are not only on the increase but attributing to more fatalities than previously imagined.
American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Journal Science Editor, Kristine Novak, PhDs reports in her latest article” US Deaths from Obesity Underestimated” that new findings reported in the American Journal of Public Health has shown that the epidemic has been greatly “underestimated.” She writes that a new study says “obesity kills far more US men and women than previously believed.”
To read more of this article and to find out why obesity related deaths are not better calculated, click here .
Source: “US Deaths from Obesity Underestimated.” Story by: Kristine Novak, PhD, Science Editor, AGA Journals
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service.
Content found on Salgi.org is for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Leave a Comment » | The Salgi Foundation - Esophageal Cancer Awareness, Early Detection & Research | Tagged: acid, acid reflux, acid reflux disease, cancer, diet, disease, esophageal, esophageal cancer, exercise, fit, fitness, gastroenterology, gerd, health, healthy., heartburn, lifestyle, nutrition, obesity, reflux disease, reflux. | Permalink
Posted by salgiblogs
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation 