Esophageal Cancer: About this Condition
 

What Causes Esophageal Cancer?

No one knows exactly what causes esophageal cancer. At the top of the esophagus is a muscle, called the sphincter, that releases to let food or liquid go through. The lower part of the esophagus is connected to the stomach. Another muscle is located at this connection that opens to allow the food to enter the stomach. This muscle also works to keep food and juices from the stomach from backing into the esophagus. When these juices do back up, reflux, commonly known as heartburn, occurs. 

Learn more about symptoms of esophageal cancer

Long-term reflux can change the cells in the lower end of the esophagus. This condition is known as Barrett's esophagus. If these cells are not treated, they are at much higher risk of developing into cancer cells.

Clinical Trials for Esophageal Cancer

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Open Clinical Trials

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Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.

 

 

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Learn More About Esophageal Cancer

What We Offer

Our providers use leading edge techniques to diagnose and treat esophageal Cancer.

About this Condition

Learn about the symptoms, types, and diagnosis of esophageal cancer.

Patient Care Resources

Learn what to expect as you go through the early steps of your care.