February is oesophageal cancer awareness month. In the UK, around 9000 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer each year. This awareness month, learn more about the symptoms of oesophageal cancer and where you can get support.

What is the oesophagus?

The oesophagus (gullet) is part of the digestive system, which is sometimes called the gastro-intestinal or GI tract. The oesophagus is a muscular tube that goes from the mouth down through the chest to the stomach.

When you swallow food, the walls of the oesophagus squeeze together (contract). This moves the food down the oesophagus to the stomach. Most of the oesophagus is in the upper part of the chest above a layer of muscle called the diaphragm. The diaphragm sits below the lungs and helps you breathe.

The oesophagus can also be called the gullet. This is the tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach, and is part of the digestive system. Cancer can develop anywhere in the oesophagus.

We do not know exactly what causes oesophageal cancer.  Some of the main risk factors include:

• long-term acid reflux
• obesity
• gender
• age

The most common symptom of oesophageal cancer is difficulty swallowing. It might feel as though food is sticking in your throat or chest.

Talk to your GP to get any symptom checked.

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.

• Website: www.macmillan.org.uk
• Helpline: 0808 808 00 00