Almost three-quarters of Irish people have not heard of oesophageal cancer, even though more Irish people die of the disease than breast cancer every year, a new study has found.
Nearly 700 people die from oesophageal cancer every year, compared to around 600 who die of breast cancer annually.
Oesophagus cancer affects the food pipe, which is part of the digestive system, carrying food and liquids to the stomach.
Commissioned by the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), the study of 1,200 people also reveals that only 17 per cent of the public are aware that difficulties in swallowing and food "sticking" are common symptoms of oesophageal cancer.
Other symptoms include unexplained weight loss, hiccups and regurgitation.
Consultant Surgeon at the James Connolly Memorial Hospital in Blanchardstown, Professor Thomas Walsh says the incidence of oesophageal cancer in Ireland is among the highest in Europe.
"We need to increase awareness of the significance of difficulty swallowing associated with unexplained weight loss. We need to create an association in the public mind between chronic heartburn and the risk of cancer," said Professor Walsh.
"Eighty per cent of Irish people diagnosed with oesophageal cancer die before the following year. The problem is that the disease is diagnosed too late and is too aggressive to treat," said a spokesperson for the OCF, Ms Anne-Marie Curran.
Professor Walsh urges general practitioners to encourage patients with symptoms to undergo an endoscopy. "Early diagnosis offers the best chance to cure", he said.
"Lollipop Day", aimed at increasing awareness of oesophageal cancer throughout the Republic, takes place today and tomorrow.
Funds raised by the sales of the €2 lollipops will go towards the building of an accommodation unit close to the James Connolly Memorial Hospital for people suffering from oesophageal cancer.