Two men sitting across from each other on a picnic bench talking.

Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month

February is oesophageal cancer awareness month. In the UK, around 9000 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year. This awareness month, learn more about the symptoms of oesophageal cancer and where you can get support.

What is oesophageal cancer?

The oesophagus can also be called the gullet. This is the tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach, and is part of the digestive system. Cancer can develop anywhere in the oesophagus.

We have more information about oesophageal cancer, including types, symptoms and treatment.

Causes of oesophageal cancer

We do not know exactly what causes oesophageal cancer.  Some of the main risk factors include:

  • long-term acid reflux
  • obesity
  • gender
  • age

We have more information about the causes and risk factors of oesophageal cancer.

Signs and symptoms of oesophageal cancer

The most common symptom of oesophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing. It might feel as though food is sticking in your throat or chest.

Talk to your GP to get any symptom checked. We have more information about the signs and symptoms of oesophageal cancer.

 

Diagram showing the oesophagus, or food pipe, connecting from the mouth to the stomach 

 

Tests for oesophageal cancer

The main tests to diagnose oesophageal cancer is an endoscopy.

This is a test that looks at the lining of your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small bowel). Endoscopies can also be used to give treatment.

Stories from people affected by oesophageal cancer

 

Daksha

"My husband and I were in utter shock when the consultant informed us that I had cancer of the lower oesophagus. I had no typical symptoms."

Eddie

"My first symptoms resembled heartburn. I left it for a few days because I assumed it would go away, but when it didn’t, my wife persuaded me to see the doctor." Read Eddie's story on being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer.

Michael

Read Michael’s story about his experience of oesophageal cancer on the Online Community.

Further information

We produce information about all aspects of a cancer diagnosis, including treatments and practical issues such as money in 16 different languages. Find information in your language

Related stories & media

MAC11636 Understanding oesophageal cancer E11 cover
Booklets
 30 Nov 2019
Understanding oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet)
This booklet is about oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet). It is for anyone who is having tests for oesophageal cancer or has been diagnosed with it.  
MAC11636 Understanding oesophageal cancer E11 audiobook cover
Audiobooks
 30 Nov 2019
Understanding oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet)
This audiobook is about oesophageal cancer (cancer of the gullet). It explains what oesophageal cancer is and how it may be treated.

Support for people affected by oesophageal cancer

Two dark green teacups on a light green background.

Accessing Macmillan services

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Cancer and cost of living advice

Cancer can have a big impact on your finances and you may be worried about costs of living.

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Further support

The Online Community is a place to chat to others who know what you or your loved one are going through. Here you'll find dedicated forums for oesophageal cancer.

We can help you find support in your local area, so you can speak to people who understand what you or your loved are going through. 

If you are supporting someone affected by cancer we have information to help you.