Esophagus Cancer Treatment at the University of Colorado Cancer Center

Esophagus cancer forms in tissues lining the esophagus (the muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach). An estimated 15,560 new cases will be diagnosed in the United States during 2007.

According to the American Cancer Society, there are two main types of esophagus cancer:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma forms in the top layer of the esophagus lining. This type of cancer can grow anywhere inside the esophagus. It accounts for about half of all esophagus cancers.
  • Adenocarcinoma forms near the opening to the stomach. It is caused when long-term reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus (heartburn) changes the cells to produce a condition called Barrett esophagus. The altered cells can become cancerous and should be watched closely by your doctor.

We Specialize in Esophagus Cancer

There are more than 100 different types of cancer. To ensure that we are always leading care at the cutting edge, UCCC has expert teams that each specialize in a small number of different cancer types. Because we are sub-specialized in cancers of the gastrointestinal system, we have treated the most common and the rarest types of cancer.

We’re the Region’s Only NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

The University of Colorado Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the Rocky Mountain Region-and one of only 39 in the United States.

  • This designation means that we are recognized as leaders in providing outstanding cancer care and cancer-related education, and in driving new research
  • No other cancer center in the region offers the expertise we do

We’re One of the Nation’s Best Cancer Centers

U.S. News and World Report has consistently ranked the University of Colorado Cancer Center’s adult patient care center at University of Colorado Hospital among the best cancer programs in the nation.

  • In 2007, we ranked 35th overall and among the ten best in the West
  • 5280 Magazine consistently votes our cancer doctors among the best in Colorado
  • We have more cancer doctors listed among Best Doctors in America than any other cancer center in the region