Esophageal cancer is the sixth most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. While survival rates for patients with esophageal cancer have increased in recent years, it is usually diagnosed in more advanced stages and can be difficult to treat. Cancer treatment requires personalized care, and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center’s esophageal cancer team employs a comprehensive, supportive and personalized approach to treating you.
The esophagus is the tube in your throat that moves liquids and food from your mouth to your stomach. If tumors grow in the esophagus, they can interfere with function and may become cancerous (malignant) and spread (metastasize).
In general, men are three times more likely to get esophageal cancer and it’s more prevalent in people who use tobacco, drink alcohol heavily, are obese and are older than 55 years old.
Esophageal cancer is a complicated disease. It requires care from a multidisciplinary team that may include a gastroenterologist, radiologist, head and neck surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist. The team of esophageal cancer experts at Banner MD Anderson provides you with the best treatment possible.
A variety of physical, lifestyle and environmental factors make some people more likely to develop esophageal cancer. If you are considered high-risk {Link to 11.2 Esophageal Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention} or experiencing symptoms that concern you, Banner MD Anderson’s caring team and expert doctors are here to help.
Learn more about esophageal cancer causes, risk factors and prevention.
Patients often have no symptoms until esophageal cancer is more advanced. Esophageal cancer patients may experience trouble swallowing, acid reflux and/or pain in the throat or chest. Generally, esophageal cancer is either squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.
Learn more about esophageal cancer signs, symptoms and types.
Doctors use a variety of tests such as biopsy, imaging and genetic counseling to diagnose esophageal cancer and determine if it has spread and the best treatment options. Esophageal cancer is usually diagnosed at later stages, making it more difficult to treat.
Learn more about esophageal cancer tests, diagnosis and stages.
Esophageal cancer treatment often involves surgery combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy. Banner MD Anderson has an excellent Integrated Oncology Program to help manage treatment side effects and get support.
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