Oesophagus

There are two main types of oesophageal cancer:

• Squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in squamous cells that line the middle and upper part of the oesophagus
• Adenocarcinoma, which begins in glandular tissue in the lower part of the oesophagus.

Incidence & Mortality

There were 361 new cases and 268 deaths from oesophageal cancer in Victoria in 2010.

Risk of being diagnosed to the age 75 years

• Men: 1 in 193
• Women: 1 in 501

Causes/Risk Factors

The causes of oesophageal cancer are not fully understood.

Established risk factors include smoking, alcohol and obesity.

If the information on this website raises any questions or concerns relating to your cancer, please call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20. Specialist cancer nurses staff the line Monday to Friday 9.00am-5.00pm.