Esophageal cancer is a major health concern across Northeast India, with lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, chewing betel nut (supari) and dietary habits have contributed to the rising burden of the disease, especially in Nagaland. Many patients still seek medical care only after the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, largely because its early symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for common digestive problems such as acidity or throat irritation.

Specialists at Medanta- The Medicity, named India’s Best Hospital by Newsweek in 2026, stated that symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chest discomfort, persistent cough, vomiting, regurgitation, or hoarseness should not be overlooked, especially if they continue for several weeks. 

Emphasizing that timely medical attention can make a life-saving difference, Dr. Rajesh Puri, Vice Chairman, Interventional Gastroenterology at Medanta Gurugram said, “Esophageal cancer is one of the cancers where early diagnosis can dramatically improve outcomes. Many patients assume swallowing difficulty or acidity is temporary and delay seeking medical help. But if these symptoms are identified early, treatment can begin at a stage when the disease is still curable. There is real hope today because medical science has advanced tremendously.”

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally and continues to pose a significant public health challenge in India, where an estimated 14 lakh new cancer cases were reported in 2023, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)[1]. Among these, esophageal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in the country[2], with Northeast India identified as a major hotspot for the disease.

Dr. Puri highlighted that Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy remains the most effective test for the early detection of esophageal cancer. The procedure allows doctors to directly visualize abnormal growths inside the food pipe and perform a biopsy immediately if needed. He said the procedure is quick, safe, minimally invasive, and can help avoid major surgery when cancer is caught early.

Urging for improving awareness about the warning signs of esophageal cancer, Dr. Hitesh Panchal, Associate Consultant, Gastroenterology at Medanta Gurugram noted that timely screening can significantly improve survival rates and help save lives through earlier treatment. He said, “Endoscopy has become a powerful tool in saving lives. People should not fear screening. Early detection often means simpler treatment, faster recovery, and better long-term survival. We want communities to understand that cancer is not always a hopeless diagnosis. When detected early, many patients can return to normal life.”

Dr. Panchal also encouraged lifestyle changes to reduce cancer risk, including avoiding tobacco and betel nut, and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.

[1] https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2102729&reg=3&lang=2
[2] https://journals.lww.com/iamr/fulltext/2017/04010/esophageal_cancer_in_india__current_status_and.3.aspx