Oesophageal cancer

This section is about cancer of the oesophagus (sometimes called cancer of the gullet or food pipe, or oesophageal cancer). It includes symptoms and causes of oesophageal cancer, tests and treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, living with oesophageal cancer including coping after treatment and managing your diet, and current research into treating cancer of the oesophagus.

If you are looking for information about throat cancer, this could mean cancer of the oesophagus. But throat cancer is not a precise medical term and could mean other types of cancer, for example cancer of the voice box (larynx). It is probably best if you check which type of cancer your doctor means before you look for specific information.

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What to ask your doctor about tests

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Coping
Diet

What to ask your doctor

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You can also find oesophageal cancer organisations providing help and support, a reading list and see where this information comes from.

Did you know that Cancer Research UK has an online forum for people affected by cancer? Cancer Chat is your space to talk about cancer.

Plus join the Q & A sessions on the first Thursday of every month and have your questions answered by one of our cancer specialist nurses.

News: International consortium releases cancer gene data: The International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) has released genetic data from a series of studies into different types of cancer.; 15 Mar 2012
News: Gene offers clue to cause of oesophageal cancer: Scientists have discovered the gene behind a rare skin condition that predisposes to oesophageal cancer, according to a study part-funded by Cancer Research UK.; 19 Jan 2012
Press release: Fluorescent dye pinpoints tiniest signs of oesophageal cancer: A fluorescent dye that can be sprayed onto the oesophagus - the food pipe - could be used to detect oesophageal cancer earlier and spare patients unnecessary treatment, according to research published today in Nature Medicine.; 15 Jan 2012

News: A minimum alcohol price could cut cancer rates: Alcohol has been a well-loved but problematic part of British life for centuries, as immortalised in 18th century artist Hogarth’s depictions of “Gin Lane” and “Beer Street”. In its latest steps to try to tackle England’s long-standing and complex relationship … Continue reading →; 28 Mar 2012
News: Aspirin and cancer – the picture becomes clearer: “Should I be taking aspirin to reduce the risk of dying from cancer?” This is likely to be the question on many people’s minds today, which sees the publication of three reports on the effects of aspirin on cancer risk, … Continue reading →; 21 Mar 2012
News: Spotting cancer early – our partnership with Tesco: If cancer is diagnosed early, it’s nearly always easier to treat successfully. But too many cancers are still diagnosed at a late stage – thousands of lives could be saved in the UK if more cancers were spotted early. We’re … Continue reading →; 6 Mar 2012