Oesophageal cancer test breakthrough

A breakthrough has been made in the development of tests to improve the diagnosis of oesophageal cancer.

Research led by the Science and Technology Council and the University of Liverpool has employed a new technique using an infrared free electron laser to develop a new diagnostic test for the disease, with a focus on earlier diagnosis than is presently possible.

Professor Peter Weightman of the University of Liverpool said: "Early diagnosis is the most important factor for improving the prognosis for patients with oesophageal cancer. But it is extremely hard to diagnose accurately."

Risk factors which affect the likelihood of an individual developing oesophageal cancer include age – with most patients aged between 65 and 70 – and gender, with men more likely to develop the disease than women.

In addition, smoking and high alcohol consumption are high-risk activities, while a poor diet can also increase the risk of developing the disease.