One in three men unaware of oesophageal cancer, survey finds

Noelle Ryan, founder of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund with oesophageal cancer survivors Helen Reilly, Andrew Kelly and Brona Wright at the launch of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund Lollipop Day for 2025. Picture: Andres Poveda

Nearly one in three men, 30%, in Ireland are unaware of oesophageal cancer, with a charity saying there is a "significant misunderstanding" in the symptoms of the disease. 

The Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF) said 500 people are diagnosed with this form of cancer each year in Ireland and it affects more men than women in Ireland, by a ratio of eight to one. It has a five-year survival rate of 25%.

A survey by the charity found 64% of men surveyed were unaware prolonged, chronic heartburn or acid reflux could increase the risks of this cancer.

The charity is determined to improve the nation’s understanding of this disease through its 24th annual Lollipop Day campaign, which is taking place on February 28 and March 1, at more than 80 locations across the country.

The survey of 1,000 adults was conducted countrywide by Amárach Research in January 2025. It found while women displayed a greater understanding of this cancer, 10% still reported being unfamiliar with the disease.

In total, 20% of respondents across all demographics were unaware of oesophageal cancer, which is the world's sixth leading cause of cancer mortality.

The OCF is reminding the public of the importance of identifying the early symptoms of this cancer throughout the month of February, which coincides with Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month.

Symptoms include difficulty swallowing food, ongoing heartburn or acid reflux, a persistent cough or unexplained weight-loss.

It is estimated 2,000 people are currently living with oesophageal cancer in Ireland, with 70% of patients experiencing possible symptoms of the cancer for three months before contacting their doctor.

Pádraig Harrington: My father passed away from it

OCF’s patron, golfer Pádraig Harrington, is helping the charity to raise awareness, lending his voice to this campaign. His father Paddy died of oesophageal cancer in July 2005, nearly 20 years ago.

Pádraig Harrington: 'Oesophageal cancer is something I know too well, as my father, Paddy, passed away from it. And I want people to know the symptoms.'

Mr Harrington stressed the importance of early detection, adding it could make “all the difference”.

“Oesophageal cancer is something I know too well, as my father, Paddy, passed away from it. And I want people to know the symptoms. So, if you’re struggling to swallow food, have persistent heartburn, acid reflux or a persistent cough, unexplained weight-loss, or pain, don’t ignore it. Talk to your GP,” he added.

OCF founder and board member Noelle Ryan said: “People, especially men, must stop ignoring ongoing chronic heartburn as ‘normal’ and putting up with it for too long before going to their GP. When this cancer is caught early, the survival rate can be more than doubled,” she said.

“I want to thank the wonderful volunteers, clubs, schools and businesses who are supporting Lollipop Day and I’d like to acknowledge our dear friends who have passed away from this disease,” she added.

The Oesophageal Cancer Fund is asking that the public buy a lollipop, worth €3, from volunteers countrywide on February 28 and March 1, 2025, to show support and help fund much-needed research into oesophageal cancer.