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Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer is treated in our Thoracic Oncology Program (TOP) within the Upstate Cancer Center.

For more information or answers to your questions about our Cancer Care, please call 315 464-HOPE (4673) to speak with an Upstate Cancer Center representative.

Next Steps

Thoracic Oncology Program
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Summary

The esophagus is a hollow tube that carries food and liquids from your throat to your stomach. Early esophageal cancer usually does not cause symptoms. Later, you may have symptoms such as:

  • Painful or difficult swallowing
  • Weight loss
  • A hoarse voice or cough that doesn't go away

You're at greater risk for getting esophageal cancer if you smoke, drink heavily, or have acid reflux. Your risk also goes up as you age

Your doctor uses imaging tests and a biopsy to diagnose esophageal cancer. Treatments include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. You might also need nutritional support, since the cancer or treatment may make it hard to swallow.

NIH: National Cancer Institute

Source: https://medlineplus.gov/esophagealcancer.html

Library resources related to esophageal cancer.

For more information:

Internet Links
American Cancer Society's Esophageal Cancer Guide
The detailed guide includes descriptions of the causes, risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, staging, treatments, and what's new in esophagus cancer research.
Esophageal Cancer
Links to information from the National Cancer Institute on treatment, clinical trials, prevention, genetics, causes, cancer research, and screening.
Health Information from the Mayo Clinic: Esophageal Cancer
A detailed description of esophageal cancer from the Mayo Clinic, including symptoms, risk factors, causes, treatments, and prevention.
MedlinePlus search on "esophageal cancer"
Link to a search of the MedlinePlus database for health information on esophageal cancer. MedlinePlus links are managed by medical librarians at the National Library of Medicine.
What You Need to Know About Cancer of the Esophagus
An electronic booklet about medical care for esophageal cancer from the National Cancer Institute. The booklet includes information on risk factors, diagnosis, staging, treatment, follow-up care, and cancer research.
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