Oesophageal and stomach cancers are complex cancers with little public awareness or knowledge. The incidence of these cancers are on the increase both in Australia and the rest of the world.
The Oesophageal and Stomach Cancers Alliance (OSCA) through the Swallow Foundation is dedicated in providing education and support for patients, carers, family members, survivors and anyone at the risk of these cancers.
OSCA is also committed to promoting awareness of oesophageal and stomach cancers. OSCA aims to increase research into these cancers that will in return improve treatments and optimally improve survival rates for oesophageal and stomach cancers.
The Swallow Foundation is a registered charity which supports research into disorders of the oesophagus and stomach.
Our investigators include surgeons, scientists, and specialist nurses based at the University of Sydney Northern Clinical School, Royal North Shore Hospital and North Shore Private Hospital. A great deal of our research is performed in collaboration with investigators across Australia.
Oesophageal and Stomach Cancers Alliance was established in November 2009 by Cancer Nurse Coordinator Francina Wade. OSCA is a specific support and education group for those who have or had oesophageal or stomach cancer as well as for their family and friends.
OSCA holds education sessions four times a year at Royal North Shore Hospital in the evening with a light supper. The sessions have guest speakers on relevant topics such as diet and treatment and the psychological impacts of cancer. OSCA also provides printed education literature as well as putting people in contact with others going through similar situations.
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OESOPHAGEAL CANCER
- Difficulty or painful swallowing
- Weight loss
- Feeling of fullness
- Persistent coughing or hiccups
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reflux
These symptoms are very broad and can occur without serious disease being present.
Stomach Cancer
- Heartburn/reflux
- Weight loss
- Feelings of fullness/loss of appetite
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained tiredness and weakness
- Stomach bleeding
These symptoms are very broad and can occur without serious disease being present.
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