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University of Wisconsin Stone Center

Types and Causes of Esophageal Cancer

There are two main types of esophageal cancer. One type is called squamous cell carcinoma. It usually occurs in the upper and middle parts of the esophagus. Currently, the most common type in the United States is called adenocarcinoma. It usually develops in the lower third of the esophagus.

In middle-aged white men, the number of cases of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is increasing more frequently than any other type of cancer. Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The exact cause of esophageal cancer is not known. Risk factors include:

  • GERD
  • Age
  • Sex
  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • Tobacco use
  • Alcohol use
  • Other irritation or swallowing damage (for example, lye poisoning)

 

 

© 2005 Cardiothoracic Surgery - First published: 05/16/05 Last updated: 10/13/08 webmaster@surgery.wisc.edu
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