Esophageal Cancer
Innovative Treatment Options in Cuba

What is Esophageal Cancer?

In the hustle of daily life, most of us don’t think much about eating or drinking—but the esophagus is a vital passage that carries every bite to the stomach. A problem here can silently grow: Esophageal cancer.
This malignancy originates from the cells lining the inside of the esophagus and typically develops in the middle or lower part of the organ, spreading quickly. How does one of the deadliest cancers worldwide begin?

What Causes Esophageal Cancer?

Esophageal cancer is generally linked to prolonged irritation of the inner lining of the esophagus. Risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, extremely hot drinks, and GERD (acid reflux). A condition called Barrett’s esophagus significantly increases the risk.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Esophageal Cancer?

First of all, this disease is much more common in men than in women. The risk increases with age, especially among individuals over 60. People with harmful habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption are at greater risk. In addition, obesity, poor nutrition, and excessive consumption of processed foods also raise the likelihood of developing the disease. Still, it’s important to remember that age and gender are not the only determining factors!

What Are the Types of Esophageal Cancer?

It’s important for everyone to understand this disease closely. Esophageal cancer is primarily divided into two main types. Squamous cell carcinoma is directly linked to smoking and alcohol use, and typically develops in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus. On the other hand, adenocarcinoma is the biggest concern for those dealing with acid reflux. It begins when stomach acid chronically irritates the esophagus and is most commonly found in the lower portion of the organ.

What Are the Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer?

So, how can esophageal cancer be recognized? Unfortunately, this silent disease often shows no symptoms in its early stages, which is why many patients are diagnosed when the cancer is already advanced. The most common symptom is difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). At first, patients may struggle with swallowing solid foods — and over time, even liquids become hard to tolerate. Painful swallowing (odynophagia) can be a sign that the tumor is growing.

In addition, sudden weight loss is frequently observed due to narrowing of the esophagus and feeding difficulties. In fact, about 57% of patients experience significant weight loss. Long-term acid reflux can also serve as a warning sign. In more advanced stages, symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and hoarseness may appear, as the tumor starts to press against the respiratory tract.

Is esophageal pain a sign of cancer? Yes, it certainly can be. Odynophagia (painful swallowing) is often associated with tumor presence. This pain is usually felt behind the breastbone and worsens while eating or drinking. Pain that spreads to the back, chest, or upper abdomen may indicate that the tumor is pressing on nearby nerve tissues.

However, not all pain means cancer. Conditions like acid reflux, esophageal spasms, or stomach ulcers can also cause similar symptoms. If the pain becomes persistent, occurs alongside difficulty swallowing, and worsens over time, it’s essential to consult a medical professional — because only experts can provide an accurate diagnosis.

Cuba, which slows down tumor growth with innovative immunotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments, offers hope in the fight against cancer. Contact QBA Medi Tours to get detailed information and start your process!

How Is Esophageal Cancer Treated?

What are the treatment options for esophageal cancer? When are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy applied? What should nutrition look like during treatment? All your questions are answered below:

Surgical Treatment

In early stages, surgery is considered the most effective treatment method. The most common surgical techniques include transthoracic esophagectomy (Ivor Lewis procedure) and transhiatal esophagectomy. During surgery, the cancerous section of the esophagus is removed, and the remaining part is connected to the stomach.

Chemotherapy

Drugs such as cisplatin, fluorouracil (5-FU), paclitaxel, and irinotecan are commonly used in esophageal cancer treatment. Chemotherapy may be applied before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or as the primary treatment in metastatic cases. For advanced-stage patients, it is also used to shrink tumors and relieve symptoms.

Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy)

Radiotherapy is used to kill or shrink cancer cells. While its effectiveness is limited when used alone, it shows higher success rates when combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiotherapy). There are mixed findings about whether preoperative radiation therapy improves survival rates.

Targeted Therapies

Next-generation treatments include epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors and immunotherapies. These are particularly used in patients who do not respond to chemotherapy, helping to suppress tumor growth.

Palliative Treatment (Symptom Relief)

In some advanced cases where surgery is not an option, methods such as metal stents, laser ablation, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and balloon dilation are used to relieve swallowing difficulties (dysphagia).

What Is the Treatment for Esophageal Cancer in Cuba?

Cuba stands out in the treatment of esophageal cancer (esophagus cancer) with its focus on immunotherapy and biotechnological approaches. In addition to conventional methods, monoclonal antibody-based treatments and supportive therapies that strengthen the immune system are applied as part of the treatment protocols in Cuba.

Cuba, which slows down tumor growth with innovative immunotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments, offers hope in the fight against cancer. Contact QBA Medi Tours to get detailed information and start your process!

How Is Esophageal Cancer Treated in Cuba?

In Cuba, treatment processes are determined based on the molecular structure of the cancer, with a focus on immunotherapy-based personalized approaches:

Nimotuzumab (CIMAher)

CIMAher is a monoclonal antibody treatment developed for EGFR-positive esophageal cancer patients. It aims to slow down tumor cell growth and is often combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Compared to traditional treatments, it has fewer side effects and offers a solution focused on improving patients’ quality of life.

Yes—Cuba offers a distinctive approach that blends traditional and innovative therapies:

A combination of conventional and advanced treatments: Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are supported by immunotherapy and targeted therapies to create a more effective treatment plan.

Innovative approaches that reduce side effects: Treatments in Cuba aim to slow tumor growth while preserving the patient’s overall health.

Patient-centered personalized planning: Each treatment process is tailored according to the patient’s overall health condition and the characteristics of the cancer.

How Can You Benefit from Esophageal Cancer Treatment in Cuba?

Accessing Cuba’s advanced cancer treatments is made easy through QBA Medi Tours, which organizes the entire process step by step:

Medical file evaluation: Your existing reports are reviewed by Cuban specialists.

Approval for treatment: A response from the Cuban Ministry of Health and medical team is provided within 7–10 business days.

Travel and treatment organization: Upon approval, all logistics such as flight tickets, accommodation, hospital appointments, and interpreter support are arranged.

Guidance and support throughout treatment: Patients are never left alone—professional coordination and companion support are offered throughout the entire process.

To learn more about Cuba’s alternative esophageal cancer treatments and start your journey, get in touch with us today!