Esophagus
The esophagus is an organ of the body that assists in food digestion process. This muscle within the body allows food to pass from the pharynx to the stomach. The esophagus is located from the trachea to the spine. The pharynx assists in both the digestive and respiratory system behind the mouth. Through peristalsis, the second phase of digestion takes place. The normal length for an esophagus ranges from 25 to 30 centimeters. The esophagus is made up of mucous membrane and is a very muscular organ. The mucous allows the passageway to remain moist and assist the food down the muscular tube. Its strength allows it to push food further down into the body so that it can be swallowed and put into the stomach.
There are certain diseases that can disrupt the function of the esophagus. This cancer can be caused by numerous factors. One of the reasons for abnormal esophagus functiom is the inhalation of asbestos fibers. These airborne carcinogens are usually inhaled through the nose or mouth and make their way to the lungs through the body's air passages. Before it hits the lungs, asbestos fibers are able to damage the sensitive tissue and muscle that contracts to help food make its way into the stomach. The cancer develops in the inner lining towards the strong muscular layer. Unfortunately, this cancer is able to spread to other organs of the body such as the vocal cord, liver and intestines.
Each year, it has been estimated that there are over 13,000 deaths related to esophageal cancer alone. The most common form of asbestos related esophageal cancer is known as Squamous Cell Carcinoma. This specific form of the cancer damages the healthy cells in the esophagus. There are other risk factors that could contribute to a person contracting this form of cancer such as smoking, age, exposure to other environmental functions, and alcohol consumption. For most incidence of esophageal cancer, (especially due to its occurrence because of asbestos) it is usually found and diagnosed at later stages, and may have even spread to other organs. It is important to find a doctor (and other legal help) that specialize in asbestos-related cancers to determine the proper treatment and prognosis of the disease.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
