Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is a disease affecting the tube that goes from the mouth to the stomach. It’s challenging to treat because it’s often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Therefore, it’s essential for esophagus cancer patients to seek a specialized cancer care team for such a complex condition.
Approximately 22,000 people will be diagnosed with esophageal cancer in the United States this year. Esophageal cancer is more common in men than women, and squamous cell esophageal cancer is associated with older age, alcohol use and tobacco use. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of esophageal cancer, and it’s more often associated with obesity, male gender and reflux disease.
Symptoms of esophageal cancer may not appear until the cancer is advanced. When patients do begin experiencing symptoms, they may include difficulty swallowing, a persistent cough, chest pain, weight loss, vomiting and hoarseness.
If esophageal cancer is suspected, the care team may perform a physical examination and order tests such as imaging studies, a barium swallow test, upper endoscopy and bronchoscopy.
Following an esophageal cancer diagnosis, the care team will work with the patient to develop a treatment plan. Surgery is the most common treatment for this condition, but the care team may also recommend other options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy and medication.
City of Hope is home to clinicians and researchers who frequently collaborate to develop and evaluate new esophageal cancer treatments designed to improve survival and quality of life.
City of Hope patients automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services. Our goal is to assist you and your family as you navigate each challenge along your esophageal cancer journey.
Our Esophageal Cancer Expertise
City of Hope is an acknowledged leader in esophageal cancer research and treatment. Our extensive experience, specialized therapy protocols and extensive clinical trials program mean newly diagnosed or relapsed patients can find a treatment regimen tailored to their individual needs and gives them the best chance for survival.
U.S. News & World Report has rated City of Hope one of the top cancer hospitals in the country for over a decade. Our multidisciplinary team takes an integrated, comprehensive approach to diagnose and treat esophageal cancer and precancerous conditions such as Barrett’s esophagus.
Our Program Highlights:
- Our care team has vast experience in minimally invasive, robotically assisted surgery for esophageal cancer, reducing complication risk and recovery time.
- We offer precise detection using endoscopic ultrasound to accurately locate and evaluate tumors.
- City of Hope provides radiofrequency ablation options to destroy tumor cells in the body.
- Our highly precise radiation therapy is designed to reduce damage to surrounding tissues.
City of Hope patients have access to our comprehensive team of supportive care experts, who can help manage and treat quality-of-life issues that may come up, such as trouble eating, drinking or speaking following treatment.
City of Hope is one of the few facilities designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, bone marrow transplants and CAR T cell therapy are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.