Almost 70% of patients experiencing possible symptoms of oesophageal cancer waited for three months before contacting their doctor, new research has found.

A recent survey, commissioned by the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), has revealed that nearly one-in-three men in Ireland are unaware of oesophageal cancer.

It also shows a significant misunderstanding of oesophageal cancer symptoms, with 64% of men surveyed unaware that prolonged, chronic heartburn or acid reflux can increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.

While women surveyed displayed a greater awareness of this cancer, 10% still reported being unfamiliar with the disease.

Overall, 20% of respondents across all demographics were unaware of oesophageal cancer.

More than 500 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year in Ireland and it is estimated 2,000 people are currently living with the disease.

This type of cancer affects more men than women in Ireland, by a ratio of eight-to-one and it has a five year survival rate of 25%.

Oesophageal Cancer survivor Brona Wright pictured at the launch of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), Lollipop Day for 2025. Picture Andres Poveda

Worldwide, oesophageal cancer is the sixth leading cause of cancer mortality.

The findings come as Lollipop Day in support of Oesophageal Cancer gets underway in an effort to raise €200,000 to help fund research into the disease.

Throughout February, which is Oesophageal Cancer Awareness month, OCF is reminding the public of the importance of recognising the early symptoms of this cancer.

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

OCF CEO Carmel Doyle is calling on men, in particular, to be aware of the symptoms of the cancer.

“It's about raising awareness that people need to be proactive about their gut and their health of their oesophagus as well,” she said.

“So we're asking people to know the symptoms, particularly men, educate yourself.

“Ongoing chronic heartburn, in particular, is not normal and needs to be checked out by the GP, as does difficulty swallowing food.”

Noelle Ryan, Founder of OCF is pictured with Oesophageal Cancer survivors Helen Reilly, Andrew Kelly and Brona Wright at the launch of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), Lollipop Day for 2025. Picture Andres Poveda

The charity is also using Lollipop Day to urge the Irish pharmaceutical sector to promote early detection of oesophageal cancer by carrying bigger and better warnings on antacid packaging and at point of sale.

OCF supported the first stage of the antacid bill which was presented in the Seanad in November 2024 by Senator Vincent Martin, whose family has also been impacted by this cancer.

OCF is asking member of the public to buy a lollipop (€3) from volunteers nationwide between February 28th and March 1st to show support and help fund research into oesophageal cancer.

The charity is also urging more local businesses, schools and clubs to get involved by organising their own Lollipop Day to help fill the gap in awareness identified.

Noelle Ryan, Founder of OCF is pictured with Oesophageal Cancer survivors Helen Reilly, Andrew Kelly and Brona Wright at the launch of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), Lollipop Day for 2025. Picture Andres Poveda