digestive disorders
Esophageal Cancer
Prognosis for Esophageal Cancer
Because esophageal cancer usually is not diagnosed until the disease has spread, the death rate is high. Fewer than 5% of people survive more than 5 years. Many die within a year of noticing the first symptoms. Exceptions include adenocarcinomas that are diagnosed when they are still very shallow (superficial). Because nearly all cases of esophageal cancer are fatal, the doctor’s main objective is to control symptoms, especially Pain and Because death is likely, a person with esophageal cancer should make all necessary plans. The person should have frank discussions with the doctor about wishes for medical care (see Advance Directives ) and the need for 