Local Esophageal Cancer Survivor to Speak at Town Hall Tomorrow

Bart Frazzitta, a resident of Manalapan Township, will speak out about his struggle with esophageal cancer at on Jan. 26. Frazzitta is a 12-year survivor of the illness and he has reached out and helped others with the disease.

Frazzitta has helped other sufferer by collaborating with health care professionals in an effort to increase awareness. He has also established the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation, a non-profit organization, which offers assistance to those suffering from esophageal cancer.

This cancer of the esophagus organ can occur from tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption; additionally, an inadequate diet and obesity are also risk factors.

Approximately 17,000 people are diagnosed with esophageal cancer every year, making this a rare form of cancer, and about 14,700 people diagnosed will die from it. The high mortality rate is due to the fact that symptoms of the disease do not manifest until the cancer is in its advanced stages. Acid reflux, chronic heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chest pain or burning and frequent choking are all symptoms.

Frazzitta will speak about his experiences at noon on Thursday, Jan. 26 in the courtroom of the . No RSVP's are needed. For more information, please contact the Manalapan Township Health Department at 732-446-8345.