Esophageal Cancer
Summary
The esophagus is a hollow tube that carries food and liquids from your throat to your stomach. Early esophageal cancer usually does not cause symptoms. Later, you may have symptoms such as:
- Painful or difficult swallowing
- Weight loss
- A hoarse voice or cough that doesn’t go away
You’re at greater risk for getting esophageal cancer if you smoke, drink heavily, or have acid reflux. Your risk also goes up as you age
Your doctor uses imaging tests and a biopsy to diagnose esophageal cancer. Treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. You might also need nutritional support, since the cancer or treatment may make it hard to swallow.
NIH: National Cancer Institute
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine.
MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.
Esophageal Cancer
Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Esophageal Cancer
National Cancer Institute
General Information about Esophageal Cancer
National Cancer Institute
What Is Cancer of the Esophagus?
American Cancer Society
Esophageal Cancer Screening
National Cancer Institute
Stages of Esophageal Cancer
National Cancer Institute
Tests for Esophageal Cancer
American Cancer Society
Understanding Esophageal Dilation
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Upper GI Endoscopy
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Upper GI Series
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Drugs Approved for Esophageal Cancer
National Cancer Institute
Supportive Therapy for Esophageal Cancer
American Cancer Society
Treatment Option Overview (Esophageal Cancer)
National Cancer Institute
Featured Articles
September 18, 2023
Did You Know Heartburn is Linked to Esophageal Cancer?
In an effort to inform the public about the link between chronic heartburn and esophageal adenocarcinoma, one of the fastest growing cancers in the US, The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) today launched a public service campaign that stresses how recent advances in the detection and treatment of precancerous cells, make gastroenterologists better equipped to help prevent this cancer before it can even start.
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A Genetic Counselor’s Guide To Hereditary GI Cancer Screening
If you could—would you want to know whether your family has a genetic predisposition to cancer? World-renown genetic counselor Heather Hampel is not only here to share how that’s possible, but also to explain how some cancers can be preventable. In this episode, Heather shares what patients should know about the genetic testing process, the available screening options and the importance of knowing your family’s medical history.
Featured Videos
September 18, 2023
Integrating Genetics Into Your GI Practice to Identify Hereditary Cancer Syndrome
GI OnDEMAND Presents an Informational Webinar: Integrating Genetics Into Your GI Practice to Identify Hereditary GI Cancer Syndromes. Experts discuss incorporating genetic testing and counseling to help identify high-risk GI patients earlier for potential proactive medical management and individualized treatment planning.
September 18, 2023
A Genetic Counselor’s Guide To Hereditary GI Cancer Screening
If you could—would you want to know whether your family has a genetic predisposition to cancer? World-renown genetic counselor Heather Hampel is not only here to share how that's possible, but also to explain how some cancers can be preventable. In this episode, Heather shares what patients should know about the genetic testing process, the available screening options and the importance of knowing your family's medical history.
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