Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is a type of rare cancer that grows in the esophagus. The esophagus is the hollow tube that connects your throat to your stomach and moves food and liquids from your mouth to the stomach. It is part of the digestive system. The two most common types of esophageal cancer are adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
General Information About Esophageal Cancer
KEY POINTS
- Esophageal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the esophagus.
- Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and Barrett esophagus can increase the risk of esophageal cancer.
- Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer are weight loss and painful or difficult swallowing.
- Tests that examine the esophagus are used to detect (find) and diagnose esophageal cancer.
- Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
Read the full article on the National Cancer Institute website.
Page updated 2023