Rising Incidence of Esophageal Cancer In Ethiopia Raises Concerns
Recent studies show an alarming increase in esophageal cancer cases within Ethiopia.
Alex Carter
- 2023-12-28
- Updated 01:37 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - An upsurge in esophageal cancer in Ethiopia has recently come into focus, as health authorities recognize a growth in cases among its population. Long overshadowed by other health concerns, this form of cancer now poses a significant threat. The Ethiopian Ministry of Health, revealing findings from a detailed study from March 13, 2016, suggests an urgent need for attention to this growing epidemic. Dr. Haji Aman's scholarly article, "Esophageal Cancer in Ethiopia: Prevalence and Future Directions," marks a crucial step in the scientific community’s recognition of the problem. Aman, a faculty member at Adama Hospital Medical College, found an especially high prevalence of cases, over 60%, in the Bale and Arsi zones.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevalence Among Farmers
Research indicates that lifestyle factors such as consuming scalding foods, smoking tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, insufficient physical activity, and exposure to indoor smoke are potentially linked to the rise in esophageal cancer cases. Most affected are subsistence farmers struggling with the disease, which not only ranks third amongst various types of cancer but also significantly disrupts basic functions such as eating and drinking. Dr. Ilabor Buno from the Ministry noted that patients often delay seeking modern medical treatments, preferring traditional remedies, which impedes early diagnosis and effective intervention.
Challenges and Future Efforts in Addressing the Crisis
The struggle against esophageal cancer is exacerbated by challenges such as limited health infrastructure, a shortage of oncology specialists, and a lack of advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans and MRIs in some hospitals. Dr. Mengistu Bekle of the Oromia Regional Health Bureau highlighted the fundamental human right to life, which underscores the urgency of addressing the disease. Collaborative efforts with universities aim to investigate causes and bolster healthcare responses in the most afflicted zones. Development of significant cancer centers in Robe and Burayu illustrates a larger national initiative to combat this and other cancers. Dr. Dereje Duguma emphasized the need for health specialists to enhance knowledge surrounding esophageal cancer prevention and causes. While non-communicable diseases and traffic accidents lead as causes of death in Ethiopia, with cancer accounting for over 6% of deaths, the stakes in tackling esophageal cancer have never been higher.
Esophageal cancer represents a growing health issue in Ethiopia, necessitating immediate action from both the government and the healthcare sector. Investments in infrastructure, research, and education about the disease's link to lifestyle choices are anticipated to not only lower the incidence of esophageal cancer but also enhance the quality of life and survival rates for those affected.
