Ireland continues to have one of the highest rates of oesophageal cancer in Europe, the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF) has warned.

It is calling on members of the public to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of the disease, which is newly diagnosed in around 400 people every year.

If caught in the early stages, there is a high cure rate. However, the disease is often only diagnosed at a later stage, which means there may be fewer treatment options available.

"The danger is that it often starts with everyday digestive complaints that can be passed off as temporary inconveniences," the OCF noted.

Symptoms can include frequent and persistent hiccups, constant burping, heartburn and reflux, vomiting, weight loss, unexplained tiredness, throat discomfort and difficulty swallowing.

While the disease is most common in people over the age of 60, it can affect people as young as 25. It affects three times more men than women and risk factors include smoking, long-term heavy drinking, obesity and a diet lacking in fruit and vegetables.

The OCF is holding its national annual fundraiser - Lollipop Day - on February 26 and 27. Volunteers nationwide will be selling lollipops and pins for €2, with all proceeds being used to fund research in this area.

As part of the event, the Dublin Gospel Choir will perform outside Debenhams on Henry Street in Dublin on Friday, February 26, from 12.30-2pm, and outside Dunnes Stores on Grafton Street on February 27, from 12.30-2pm.

For more information on Lollipop Day and oesophageal cancer, click here, join the Facebook page here or follow the event on Twitter @LollipopDayIE #LollipopDay