A recent study using data from @NICanReg and pathological diagnoses from across NI has shown that the suspension of endoscopy during the early stages of the pandemic led to a 26.6% fall in oesophageal and gastric cancer diagnosis. This means 53 fewer patients diagnosed than expected
For Barrett’s oesophagus diagnoses fell by 59 .3%. Barrett’s cases fell by 95.5% in April alone. Meaning 236 fewer Barrett’s cases than expected with numbers of diagnoses still below the expected rates
We can only expect more diagnoses to be missed during the current restrictions.
We need to protect our diagnostic and cancer services so that patients can be diagnosed and treated quickly
Source: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Barrett’s Esophagus and Esophago-gastric Cancer Read it here https://t.co/AYz27qsNGo
#BelfastTrust #NICanReg #OGCancerNI #CR_UK #CatchItEarly
Oesophageal cancer like many other cancers does not discriminate between age or sex and knowing and recognising the signs and symptoms are crucial to early diagnosis. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms for longer than 3 weeks you should consult your doctor.
- Persistent Indigestion
- Difficulty swallowing or food sticking
- Heartburn acid reflux
- Hiccupping that wont go away
- Unexplained weight loss.
