Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the tissues of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It usually develops slowly over several years and can cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, weight loss, and persistent coughing. The two main types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, each arising from different types of cells lining the esophagus. Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, chronic acid reflux, and Barrett’s esophagus. Diagnosis is typically made through endoscopy and biopsy, and treatment options vary depending on the stage and location of the tumor, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these.

• Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus lining and can block food passage.
• Two main types: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
• Common symptoms: difficulty swallowing, chest pain, weight loss, chronic cough.
• Risk factors: smoking, alcohol, acid reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, obesity.
• Diagnosis via endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging studies.
• Treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or combined therapies.
• Early detection improves treatment success and survival rates.