Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The exact causes of esophageal cancer are not fully understood, but some potential risk factors include chronic acid reflux, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, obesity, and a family history of esophageal cancer. Symptoms of esophageal cancer may include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, weight loss, and chronic cough. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests and biopsy, and treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches depending on the stage and location of the cancer.

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