Medical Minute with Dr. Rob Gillio
Esophageal Cancer Awareness: Spot It Early. Act Decisively.

🩺 Medical Minute with Dr. Rob Gillio
Esophageal Cancer Awareness: Spot It Early. Act Decisively.

👋 Hi, I’m Dr. Rob Gillio, Chief Medical Officer for the Force for Health Network.

Today, I want to bring attention to Esophageal Cancer — a dangerous and often silent disease that can be caught earlier if we know what to look for and what steps to take.

🧬 What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer occurs in the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. There are two main types: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

It often begins silently, growing slowly without symptoms, until it’s more advanced and harder to treat.

🔍 Who’s at Risk?
People over the age of 50, especially men, are more commonly affected.
Smoking, heavy alcohol use, acid reflux (GERD), and a condition called Barrett’s esophagus all increase risk.
Poor diet and obesity also play a role.

⚠️ What Are the Warning Signs?
Trouble swallowing or feeling like food is getting stuck.
Unexplained weight loss.
Chest pain or persistent heartburn.
Hoarseness or chronic cough.
These symptoms should never be ignored. Early detection can save lives.

🛡️ What Can You Do?
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.
Treat chronic reflux early and follow up if you’re diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
If you have persistent symptoms, talk to your doctor and request testing.
💡 Let’s take action together.

Be aware of your risk. Pay attention to your body’s signals. Talk to friends and family about this lesser-known but serious cancer.

Learn it. Live it. Share it.

I’m Dr. Rob Gillio — stay informed, stay proactive, and be a Force for Health.

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