Esophageal Cancer

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Cancer treatment requires personalized care. At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, our team of esophageal cancer experts treats you according to your specific needs.

What Is Esophageal Cancer?

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. That is why Banner MD Anderson’s esophageal cancer team is dedicated to providing patients with the highest standards of care using a comprehensive, supportive approach.

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).

Who Gets Esophageal Cancer?

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.

Who Treats Esophageal Cancer?

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.

Learn More about Esophageal Cancer

What Causes Esophageal Cancer?

A variety of physical, lifestyle and environmental factors make some people more likely to develop esophageal cancer. If you’re experiencing symptoms that concern you, Banner MD Anderson’s caring staff is here to help.

Esophageal Cancer Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention

What Are the Signs, Symptoms, and Types of Esophageal Cancer?

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.

Esophageal Cancer Signs, Symptoms, and Types

How Is Esophageal Cancer Diagnosed?

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.

Esophageal Cancer Tests, Diagnosis, and Stages

How Is Esophageal Cancer Treated?

Esophageal cancer treatment often involves surgery combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy. Banner MD Anderson has an excellentIntegrated Oncology Programto help manage treatment side effects and get support.

Esophageal Cancer Treatment and Support

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