Esophageal Cancer
Look to UC San Diego Health for exceptional esophageal cancer care.
You’ll find a full range of cancer care services, including advanced surgical treatments and support services.
Nationally Ranked Cancer Care
UC San Diego Health is ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care and gastroenterology by U.S. News & World Report. We are also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you’ll receive the best possible care and support. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers.
Our thoracic cancer team also cares for more patients with esophageal and other thoracic cancers than any other San Diego health care system.
How Common is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer impacts nearly 20,000 people in the United States each year. Most patients are in their 60s. Men are three times more likely than women to have esophageal cancer. The most common type of the disease is adenocarcinoma, which develops in the glands that line your esophagus.
Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer
Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer may include:
- Chest pain, pressure or burning
- Coughing or hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Extreme tiredness
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Unintentional weight loss
Diagnosing Esophageal Cancer
UC San Diego Health doctors provide an accurate diagnosis of esophageal cancer using advanced X-ray techniques and endoscopy. An endoscopy passes a thin, flexible tube with a miniature camera down your throat into your esophagus to look for signs of cancer.
Personalized, Comprehensive Treatments for Esophageal Cancer
Rely on your care team to develop a personalized care plan for your stage of cancer, treatment goals and personal preferences. Access a full range of esophageal cancer treatments.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Expect the highest quality of surgical care at UC San Diego Health. Our surgeons are leaders in the minimally invasive procedure known as RATE (robot-assisted transhiatal esophagectomy). With this surgical approach, you’re likely to experience less pain and a faster recovery than after an open esophagectomy (esophagus removal).
Gastrointestinal Cancer Care Team
At UC San Diego Health, your cancer care is led by a multidisciplinary team of doctors who specialize in your type of cancer. Highly specialized multidisciplinary care is a hallmark of top-tier academic medical centers such as UC San Diego Health. For patients like you, it means you receive the highest level of care. Find a gastrointestinal cancer specialist.
Clinical Trials
Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention
UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment before it is available to the public. If your cancer has not responded to standard therapies, talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Patient & Family Support Services
At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.
Location
Cancer Care When You Need It
The same-day cancer care clinic at UC San Diego Health provides fast, expert treatment for urgent cancer-related symptoms, improving patient care and quality of life.
Beating B-Cell Lymphoma
Katie Kinninger, UC San Diego retiree and cancer survivor, overcame B-cell lymphoma with CAR T-cell therapy, a type of immunotherapy. Now, she surfs, bikes and embraces life fully.
A Strike Against Pancreatic Cancer
Former MLB pitcher Danny Boitano faced his toughest opponent — pancreatic cancer. With resilience, top care at UC San Diego Health and faith, he is beating the odds.