Esophageal cancer

Updated: 2024-03-16

Description

Cancer of the tube that runs from the throat to the stomach, called the esophagus.

Overview

Esophageal cancer is cancer of the tube that runs from the throat to the stomach, called the esophagus. Risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol, having obesity and having gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD.

Symptoms

Symptoms include trouble swallowing, unintentional weight loss, chest pain, worsening indigestion or heartburn, and coughing or hoarseness.

Treatments

Treatment focuses on removing the cancer through surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation also may be used. Other options may include targeted therapy and immunotherapy.