Esophageal cancer occurs when a malignant tumor forms in the esophagus—the muscular tube that carries food into the stomach. In its early stages, there may not be any symptoms. As the tumor continues to grow, however, it can block the esophagus, which can lead to difficulty swallowing. Some other symptoms include weight loss, pain in the throat, painful swallowing, indigestion, and regurgitation. Treatment often involves chemotherapy and surgery.

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