Oesophageal Cancer
Also known as:
- Gastroesophageal cancer
- Gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma
- Cancer of the oesophagus
- Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
- Oesophageal adenocarcinoma
- Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
- Esophageal adenocarcinoma
What is oesophageal cancer?
Oesophageal cancer is one that occurs anywhere anywhere in the oesophagus. There are two main types, oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and oesophageal adenocarcinoma.
There are other types of oesophageal cancer that are even more rare. These include, poorly differentiated neuroendocrine cancers, small cell cancers, and GISTs.
How rare is oesophageal cancer?
In the UK, around 9,000 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year.
Who does oesophageal cancer affect?
Oesophageal cancer primarily affects people over the age of 60 and it is more common in men.
Why is RareCan interested in oesophageal cancer?
RareCan is working to accelerate research into oesophageal cancer by making it easier for researchers to connect with people who have this rare form of cancer. You can help us do this by becoming a RareCan member and sharing information with us about your cancer diagnosis. We will then get in touch with you about any research opportunities that might be suitable for you.
Looking for a different cancer type?
Please visit our ‘rare cancer list’ to search for your cancer type
Useful links
OPA Cancer Charity UK
A charity that aims to support patients with oesophagal and gastric cancers, as well as their families and carers.
Heartburn Cancer UK
A charity that raises awareness of the dangers of persistent heartburn, GORD and Barrett’s oesphagus.
Guts UK
A charity that provides expert information and funds research into the digestive system, including the oesophagus and stomach.
