How long can a 70-year-old man with esophageal cancer live without treatment

If esophageal cancer is not treated, the survival period of people over 70 is usually short, and the specific time depends on the stage of cancer and physical condition. Early detection can prolong the survival period through surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and other means, while in the late stage, the main treatment is to relieve symptoms.

1. The progression rate of esophageal cancer varies from person to person. If left untreated, the tumor will continue to grow and spread. Early esophageal cancer may have no obvious symptoms, but as the disease progresses, patients will experience symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and weight loss. In the late stage, cancer cells may metastasize to organs such as lymph nodes, liver, and lungs, leading to multiple organ failure, and survival may be shortened to a few months.

2. Treatments for esophageal cancer include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is the preferred treatment for early esophageal cancer. Common procedures include esophagectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection. Radiotherapy kills cancer cells through high-energy rays and is suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery or as an adjuvant therapy after surgery. Chemotherapy uses drugs to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Commonly used drugs include cisplatin and fluorouracil. Comprehensive treatment can significantly improve survival rates.

3. Nutritional support is crucial for patients with esophageal cancer. Due to difficulty in swallowing, patients are prone to malnutrition. It is recommended to choose high-calorie, high-protein liquid or semi-liquid foods, such as milk, soy milk, egg custard, etc. If necessary, energy can be supplemented through nasogastric feeding or intravenous nutrition. Maintaining a stable weight helps improve treatment effects and quality of life.

4. Psychological counseling and family support have a positive effect on the patient's recovery. Esophageal cancer patients often experience anxiety and depression due to the disease and treatment side effects. Family members should give them full care and encouragement. Appropriate participation in cancer patient mutual aid groups to share experiences and emotional support can help relieve psychological pressure and enhance confidence in treatment.

5. Regular review and follow-up are important means of monitoring changes in the condition. After treatment, patients need to undergo imaging examinations, endoscopic examinations, etc. on time to detect signs of recurrence or metastasis in a timely manner. The doctor will adjust the treatment plan based on the review results to ensure that the condition is effectively controlled.

If esophageal cancer is not treated, the survival period is usually short, but through early detection and comprehensive treatment, the survival time can be significantly prolonged and the quality of life can be improved. Patients should actively cooperate with treatment, pay attention to nutrition and psychological support, and have regular checkups to achieve the best treatment effect.