Medanta specialists stress early detection of esophageal cancer

DIMAPUR: Esophageal cancer has emerged as a major health concern across Northeast India, with lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, betel nut chewing and dietary habits contributing to its rising burden, particularly in Nagaland.
Specialists cautioned that many patients seek medical care only after the disease has advanced, as early symptoms are often mistaken for common digestive issues like acidity or throat irritation.
Doctors from Gurugram-based Medanta–The Medicity, ranked India’s Best Hospital by Newsweek in 2026, urged communities not to ignore persistent symptoms such as difficulty in swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chest discomfort, cough, vomiting, regurgitation or hoarseness. Vice Chairman of Interventional Gastroenterology, Dr. Rajesh Puri, said early diagnosis can dramatically improve outcomes. “Many assume swallowing difficulty or acidity is temporary and delay seeking help. But if identified early, treatment can begin when the disease is still curable,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of screening, Dr. Puri noted that Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy remains the most effective test for early detection, allowing direct visualization and immediate biopsy.
Associate Consultant, Gastroenterology, Dr. Hitesh Panchal, added that endoscopy is quick, safe and minimally invasive, often helping avoid major surgery when cancer is caught early.
He emphasized that awareness and timely screening can save lives, while lifestyle changes such as avoiding tobacco and betel nut and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can reduce risk.
Medanta has signed an MoU with the Government of Nagaland for accreditation under the Chief Minister’s Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS) and partnered with IDAN to publish a health awareness booklet launched in September 2025 by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio.
Nagaland residents can consult Dr. Hitesh Panchal on May 15, 2026 at Apex Diagnostic & Clinic, Naharbari Junction, Opp. Holotoli School, Dimapur, and on May 16, 2026 at District Hospital, Hospital Colony, Ward No. 8, Dimapur. For appointments, contact +91 9774477521.
Medanta has also launched a dedicated helpline +91 8904395588, available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in Assamese, Bengali, Nagamese, English and Hindi, to assist with doctor selection and appointments across the Northeast.