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Oesophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the oesophagus, a tube connecting the mouth to the stomach.

What is oesophageal cancer?

Oesophageal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the oesophagus grow in an uncontrolled way. 
 
The oesophagus is a long tube through which food and drink pass as they travel from the mouth to the stomach. Cancer begins in the mucosal cells lining the oesophagus. The main types of oesophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma (more common in the middle and upper parts of the oesophagus) and adenocarcinoma (more common in the lower part of the oesophagus). In Australia, most oesophageal cancers start in the lower part of the oesophagus, where it meets the stomach. 
 
If oesophageal cancer is not treated early, it can spread through the wall of the oesophagus into nearby structures. It can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver. 

Oesophageal cancer in Australia
Explore statistics on oesophageal cancer, including the number of new cases, deaths, survival rates, and overall prevalence.
What are the risk factors for oesophageal cancer?
Risk factors for esophageal cancer include modifiable factors like smoking, diet, and obesity, as well as non-modifiable factors like family history and exposure to certain chemicals.
What are the symptoms of oesophageal cancer?
Oesophageal cancer is slow growing, and there may be no symptoms in the early stages.
Diagnosis
Various tests, including endoscopy, biopsy, endoscopic ultrasound, CT scan, and PET scan, may be used to investigate oesophageal cancer symptoms and confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment options
Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on the stage of the disease, location, symptoms, and overall health, and may involve surgery, endoscopic treatments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
Follow-up
After oesophageal cancer treatment, regular follow-up checks, including physical exams and imaging, are needed to monitor for cancer recurrence and potential treatment side effects.
Finding support
Living with cancer can be challenging, but you can find support from family, friends, health professionals, and cancer support organizations to help you cope with the emotional, physical, and practical issues related to your diagnosis.
Clinical trials
Research is ongoing to find new ways to diagnose and treat different types of cancer.
Health professionals
Details for professionals seeking comprehensive information on oesophageal cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Last updated 27 September 2024
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Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to benefit all Australians affected by cancer, and their families and carers. Cancer Australia aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer by leading and coordinating national, evidence-based interventions across the continuum of care.

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