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Esophageal Carcinoma

Background

Brenton L. Harris, B.A.
Kemp H. Kernstine, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Esophageal cancer is a global health problem. It is one of the most geographically and racially varied cancers. Although the incidence of esophageal carcinoma is less than 10 per 100,000 in the US (Iowa) icon for figure 1(Figure 1) Incidence of Esophageal Cancer by County) and Canada, it is as high as 15-20 cases per 100,000 in most areas of China and over 150 per 100,000 in particularly high risks areas of China, the middle east and the former USSR1. In the United States, the rate is 24 per 100,000 in the Afro-American population and 6.5 per 100,000 for Caucasians2. It is also a medical health problem because survival rates are consistently very low. Signs and symptoms occur late in the disease process which precludes effective treatment options. icon for figure 2(Figure 2) (2/3 are either regional or distant) Approximately 12,300 new cases will arise in the US each year, and almost matching that figure is the expected death rate projected at 11,900 patients3. Overall, of patients with esophageal carcinoma, a dismal 5 year survival rate is less than 10%4. With surgical treatment, depending on the study and stage of the tumor, an approximate 20%5, or less may survive 5 years. icon for figure 3(Figure 3)

 

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This information is written primarily for providers.

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See related Provider Topics Cancer Center, Cancers, Digestive System, Ear, Nose and Throat, Esophageal Cancer, Gastrointestinal, Internal Medicine, Procedures and Therapies or Surgery.

See related Patient Textbooks about Cancer Center, Internal Medicine or Surgery.

See related Patient Topics Cancer Center, Cancers, Digestive System, Ear, Nose and Throat, Esophageal Cancer, Gastrointestinal, Internal Medicine, Procedures and Therapies or Surgery.

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