What is esophageal cancer?

Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the esophagus, the tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach. It can make swallowing hard and may cause other serious health problems if not treated early.

Causes of esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer happens when cells in the esophagus grow the wrong way and form a tumor.

Long-term acid reflux or heartburn
Smoking or heavy drinking
Being overweight
A condition called Barrett’s esophagus

Risk factors for esophageal cancer

Some people have a higher chance of getting this kind of cancer.

Smoking
Drinking alcohol often
Ongoing acid reflux or GERD
Being older than 50
Eating a diet low in fruits and vegetables

Symptoms of esophageal cancer

Symptoms may not show early. As the cancer grows, you might notice:

Trouble swallowing food or drinks
Chest pain or discomfort
Weight loss without trying
Hoarseness or sore throat
Feeling like food is stuck in your throat

Diagnosing esophageal cancer

Doctors use tests to find the cancer and see how far it has spread.

Endoscopy to look inside the esophagus
Biopsy to check for cancer cells
CT scan, PET scan or MRI
Barium swallow X-ray

Treatment of esophageal cancer

Treatment depends on the size and stage of the cancer.

Surgery to remove part or all of the esophagus
Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
Chemotherapy to shrink the tumor
Other treatments like targeted therapy or immunotherapy

When to seek care

Call your doctor if you:

Have trouble swallowing
Lose weight without trying
Feel chest pain when eating
Have a cough or sore throat that doesn’t go away

Esophageal Cancer