Oesophagus

Oesophageal cancer

The oesophagus (also referred to as the gullet or gastrointestinal tract), is part of the digestive system, it connects your mouth to your stomach, and its function is to deliver food into the stomach so it can be processed. There is an upper part of the oesophagus called the windpipe (trachea), which connects your mouth and nose to your lungs so you can breathe.

Each year, around 9,100 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in the UK, with approximately 40% of cases occurring in people over 75 years old. It can occur in any part of the oesophagus, and commonly develops within the inner layer of muscle and connective tissue and can spread to the outer layers.

Types of oesophageal cancer

 There are three main types of oesophageal cancer:

Squamous cell
These are cancer cells that develop in the squamous cells that make up the inner lining of your oesophagus. This type of oesophageal cancer is associated with smoking and drinking alcohol. These cancer cells usually develop in the upper and middle part of the oesophagus.

Adenocarcinoma
This is the most common of all oesophageal cancers, and they mostly develop in the lower part of the oesophagus within the gland cells. These cells produce mucus in the lining of the oesophagus.

Gastro-oesophageal junction
Cancer cells that develop in the gastroesophageal junction (GOJ), which is in the lowest end of the oesophagus that joins the stomach.

Symptoms

Symptoms caused by oesophageal cancer will vary depending on its type and where in the oesophagus it has occurred. Some people may have symptoms, whereas others may not experience any. Early diagnosis will make treating oesophageal cancer easier, so if you have any of the following symptoms, it is important to see your GP. 

Here are some common symptoms that may be experienced:

• Heartburn or indigestion that doesn’t go away
• Difficulty swallowing – feeling that your food is sticking in your throat or chest
• Food coming back up before reaching the stomach (regurgitation)
• Vomiting
• Pain in your throat or the middle of your chest when swallowing
• Coughing
• Hoarseness
• Dull pain or discomfort behind the breastbone or in the back
• Unexplained weight loss

Further information & support

Being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer and deciding on the best treatment can be daunting, for full details on oesophagus treatment options or to discuss a diagnosis, please contact our enquiries team. Our enquiries team will endeavour to help you assess your treatment options and advise which consultants could be best placed to plan your treatment pathway.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm) Website: www.macmillan.org.uk