By Omutu Lawrence
KAMPALA— The Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), Dr Jackson Orem, has raised concern over the increasing burden of oesophageal cancer in Uganda, urging the public to avoid consuming very hot beverages as part of efforts to reduce the risk of the disease.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kampala, Dr Orem said oesophageal cancer is now the fifth most common cancer in Uganda and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths after cervical cancer.
He attributed part of the growing disease burden to preventable lifestyle factors, including the habitual consumption of beverages at very high temperatures.
“Let your tea cool before drinking it,” Dr Orem advised, explaining that regularly consuming beverages above 65 degrees Celsius can damage the lining of the oesophagus and increase the likelihood of developing cancer over time.
He described the habit as a preventable risk factor, noting that simple behavioural changes could help reduce the incidence of the disease.
Oesophageal cancer affects the tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. According to Dr Orem, the disease is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage because many patients do not recognise the early symptoms or seek medical attention promptly.
“Most patients come to us when the disease is already advanced, making treatment more difficult and expensive,” he said.
He urged members of the public to seek medical attention if they experience persistent difficulty in swallowing, recurring heartburn, unexplained weight loss or chest discomfort, as these may be signs of the disease.
Dr Orem also called for increased public awareness and preventive health education, saying that reducing exposure to known risk factors could play a significant role in lowering the country’s cancer burden.
The Uganda Cancer Institute continues to encourage early screening and timely diagnosis as key measures in improving treatment outcomes
for cancer patients.
