Esophagus (Esophageal) Cancer

Esophageal cancer occurs in the tissues of the esophagus, the long tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This cancer usually begins in cells that line the inside of the esophagus, and then spreads outward through other layers as it grows. The type of esophageal cancer is determined based on the type of cells involved and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and rarer types. Esophageal cancer has a yearly diagnosis rate of 4 in every 100,000 people in the United States. Risk factors include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, acid reflux, and obesity. Early stages are typically asymptomatic but can include difficulty or pain in swallowing, unintentional weight loss, indigestion, chronic coughing, and loss of voice. Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.