Esophageal Cancer

Weight loss treatments linked to lower risk of obesity-related cancers in people without diabetes

A study of over 229,000 obese adults without diabetes found that weight loss drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, were associated with a 41% decrease in the overall risk of developing obesity-related cancers. GLP-1 RAs also showed larger reductions in certain subgroups, including men and gynaecologic cancers.

UCF researcher studying probiotics to fight acid reflux, esophageal cancer

A UCF researcher is investigating how probiotics can treat damage from acid reflux disease, which affects one-fourth of Americans and increases the risk for esophageal cancer. Early results show a reduction in Barrett's esophagus and delayed cancer development.

Saliva could flag one of SA’s deadliest and baffling cancers sooner

Scientists identified distinctive microbial patterns associated with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma, a mysterious subtype common in South Africa. The study, published in Communications Medicine, suggests a potential low-cost warning signal for early detection using saliva bacteria analysis.

Rare extraluminal esophageal cancer invades spine despite normal endoscopy

Scientists confirm precursor to commonest form of oesophageal cancer – offering opportunities to catch the disease early

Researchers found that Barrett's oesophagus is the starting point for all cases of oesophageal adenocarcinoma, even when telltale signs are no longer visible. The study suggests that detecting molecular markers such as TFF3 and REG4 could help identify individuals at risk of developing the disease.

AACR: UT MD Anderson shares latest breakthroughs in cancer research

Researchers from UT MD Anderson Cancer Center present studies on single-cell technologies, integrative computational approaches, and experimental therapeutics, highlighting innovations in mRNA vaccines and spatial multi-omics techniques. The studies aim to improve immunotherapy responses and detect treatment-resistant glioma cells.

Cancer trends in Canada 2026

The study projects that cancer rates in Canada will be high in 2026, with declines seen in some cancers like colorectal and leukemia. However, death rates from pancreatic cancer are increasing.

Researchers develop AI tool to predict Barrett’s esophagus recurrence after therapy

Researchers developed an AI model to predict Barrett's esophagus recurrence after endoscopic eradication therapy. The tool shows high accuracy in identifying patients at risk and detecting when recurrence is likely to occur.

New AI tool helps doctors treat cancer patients after heart attack

Researchers developed an AI tool called ONCO-ACS to predict the risk of secondary heart attacks in cancer patients after a heart attack. The tool combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide reliable information for doctors to balance treatment benefits and harms.

Treating cancer with medication before surgery continues to increase, report shows

The report shows a notable increase in medication treatments, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy, used before surgery to treat many cancers. Neoadjuvant systemic therapy increased notably for certain cancers, including gynecologic cancers, pancreatic cancer, and rarer abdominal lining cancers.

Scientists identify pre-cancerous states in seemingly normal aging tissues

Researchers developed a technology to map pre-malignant gene mutations and their effects in solid tissues, finding over half of cells contained clonal driver mutations. The study used esophageal tissue samples from six older adults, discovering NOTCH1 and TP53 driver mutations that induced clonal overgrowth and impaired cell development.

New alliance trial seeks to reduce delays in gastrointestinal cancer treatment

A new clinical trial, PAGODA, seeks to minimize treatment interruptions and help patients complete their chemotherapy as planned. The trial will test a structured plan to guide doctors in making small, proactive changes to chemotherapy doses to prevent treatment delays.

New FAU research strengthens evidence linking alcohol use to cancer

Research from Florida Atlantic University strengthens evidence that alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Higher intake and specific groups, such as African Americans and those with obesity or diabetes, are found to be more vulnerable to the risks.

Experts urge risk-based monitoring as Barrett’s esophagus care moves beyond one-size-fits-all

The new American Gastroenterological Association guideline emphasizes the need for regular monitoring in many patients with Barrett's esophagus who do not exhibit dysplasia or cancerous changes. The guideline also recommends using high-definition white-light endoscopy in combination with chromoendoscopy to improve detection of Barrett'...

Pulsed low dose rate chemoradiation therapy can significantly reduce side effects while maintaining treatment effectiveness for patients with esophageal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer

Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center demonstrate that pulsed low dose rate (PLDR) chemoradiation therapy can significantly reduce severe side effects, such as painful swallowing problems, while maintaining treatment effectiveness for patients with esophageal and non-small cell lung cancer. The study's key findings show that PLDR brea...

New guideline offers menu of options to help people quit smoking tobacco

A new guideline from the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care provides a menu of effective options to help people quit smoking, including behavioural and medication options. The guideline aims to address the challenges of nicotine addiction and offers personalized choices for quitting tobacco.

New monoclonal antibody targets deadly sepsis

Scientists have developed a monoclonal antibody to combat life-threatening inflammatory diseases like sepsis and ARDS. The antibody shows promise in blocking the immune system's hyperactive response and restoring healthy function without unwanted side effects.

New endoscopy technology enables early detection of esophageal cancer

A new technology enables early detection of esophageal cancer by combining optical coherence tomography and optoacoustic imaging to visualize tissue structure and function. This could reduce treatment costs from €140,000 to €10,000 per patient.

Support for continued use of nasogastric tube after oesophageal cancer surgery

Researchers found that decompression with a nasogastric tube is linked to reduced complications in patients after oesophageal cancer surgery. This challenges declining trend of abandoning the tube post-surgery, which was previously thought to be safe.

Global rise in many Early-Onset GI cancers detailed in two Dana-Farber reviews, with colorectal cancer leading the trend

Early-onset gastrointestinal cancers are rising globally, particularly among younger adults. Colorectal cancer is the most common early-onset GI cancer, accounting for over half of cases, and its incidence is increasing faster than any other type of early-onset cancer.

Unlocking the mystery behind Barrett’s esophagus

A study by Baylor College of Medicine reveals that altered genes SOX2 and CDX2 drive Barrett's esophagus formation. The team created organoids from patient tissue, showing that the balance between these genes determines cell identity. This new understanding supports earlier intervention and diagnosis for this potentially deadly cancer.

Precision oncology Organ Chip platform accurately and actionably predicts chemotherapy responses of patients suffering from esophageal adenocarcinoma

Researchers developed patient-specific Cancer Chips to model esophageal tumor microenvironments, enabling accurate prediction of chemotherapy responses. The approach can rapidly stratify patients into responders and non-responders, paving the way for personalized medicine.

‘Pill-on-a-thread’ could replace endoscopies for half of all patients being monitored for esophageal cancer risk

A new study has found that the capsule sponge test, a less invasive alternative to endoscopies, can accurately stratify patients with Barrett's oesophagus into high, moderate, and low risk categories. This allows for tailored monitoring, reducing unnecessary procedures and improving patient outcomes.

Basic fibroblast growth factor-loaded hydrogel biomaterial patches for promoting the healing of esophageal anastomosis: An experimental animal study

Researchers developed biomaterial patches loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor to enhance esophageal anastomosis healing. The study showed improved mechanical strength, increased fibroblast proliferation, and enhanced collagen secretion in the experimental group compared to controls.

Identification of esophageal cancer tumor antigens and immune subtypes for guiding vaccine development

Researchers identified six overexpressed and mutated tumor antigens strongly associated with poor prognosis in esophageal cancer. The study's findings suggest BTN2A1, MICA, and HHLA2 as promising targets for anti-ESCA mRNA vaccines.

Exercise during chemotherapy may help immune cells fight cancer – patients invited to join new trial

A pilot study found that exercising during chemotherapy can increase the number of immune cells fighting cancer, including CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells. The exercise programme improved patients' aerobic fitness, leading to stronger immune responses inside tumours.

Lab-grown patient tumor miniatures offer new hope for treating esophageal cancer

Researchers developed a patient-derived organoid library to study chemotherapy resistance in esophageal cancer. Lab-grown mini-tumors showed increased activity in the NRF2 pathway, suggesting potential biomarkers for predicting chemotherapy resistance.

ASCO 2025: Alcohol-fueled cancer deaths are on the rise in the US

A new study analyzed trends over time in alcohol-linked cancer mortality across the US, finding nearly double the number of alcohol-related cancer deaths between 1990 and 2021. The burden is highest among men over 55, with liver, colorectal, and esophageal cancers seeing significant increases.

New algorithms can help GPs predict which of their patients have undiagnosed cancer

Two new predictive algorithms use health data and blood tests to identify high-risk patients, offering improved accuracy in diagnosing cancers. The models identified additional medical conditions associated with increased cancer risk and new symptoms indicative of multiple cancer types.

Scientists develop super strong antibodies for new cancer treatment

Researchers from the University of Southampton engineered a new type of super-strong antibody that triggers a stronger response from the immune system compared to naturally produced antibodies. The study confirms that making subtle increases in rigidity stimulates immune activity, creating a powerful immune response against disease.

Effects of ethanol on the digestive system

Excessive alcohol consumption causes severe digestive problems, including liver damage, stomach disorders, and increased cancer risk. Chronic alcohol use can lead to conditions like cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and colorectal cancer.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve, University Hospitals to begin clinical testing with new, less-invasive technology to screen for esophageal precancer

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals will test EsoCheck and EsoGuard technologies to detect Barrett's Esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer. The goal is to improve detection in an at-risk population with limited endoscopy resources.

Causal relationship between type II diabetes mellitus, metformin, insulin, gliclazide, and esophageal cancer—insights from two-sample Mendelian randomization study and meta-analysis

A genetic predisposition to type II diabetes mellitus is associated with a reduced risk of esophageal cancer. Metformin use has been shown to decrease the prevalence of esophageal cancer, while insulin and gliclazide have no significant association.

Morphomic predictors for post-esophagectomy pulmonary complications and overall survival

Increased visceral adipose tissue density and decreased skeletal muscle area are predictors of post-esophagectomy pulmonary complications. Decreased skeletal muscle density is associated with poorer overall survival. Routine morphomic analysis can help identify patients at risk and tailor perioperative care.

Researchers develop biomarker algorithm for noninvasive detection of Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer

A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine has developed a biomarker algorithm that can detect Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer using a noninvasive method. The algorithm uses methylation patterns in genes to identify biomarkers, achieving an AUC of nearly 0.97 in distinguishing healthy tissue from esophageal cancer.

Surprising ‘two-faced’ cancer gene role supports paradigm shift in predicting disease

A genetic fault long believed to drive oesophageal cancer development may actually play a protective role early in the disease, according to new research. The study found that defects in CDKN2A were more common in people with Barrett's oesophagus who never progressed to cancer.

Esophageal cancer: global burden intensifies, calls for urgent action

A critical study sheds light on the growing global burden of esophageal cancer, with Asia accounting for 75% of new cases and deaths. The research highlights tobacco use and high body mass index (BMI) as leading risk factors, responsible for nearly half of deaths and disability-adjusted life years in men, and a fifth in women.

Achalasia and esophageal cancer: A case report and literature review

Achalasia is associated with an increased risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, highlighting the need for close surveillance in high-risk patients. Chronic inflammation and food stasis can lead to malignant transformation, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.

Adding immunotherapy to neoadjuvant chemoradiation may improve outcomes in esophageal cancer

A phase II clinical trial showed that combining radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy can shrink tumors and allow surgery, resulting in significantly improved outcomes. The study found that patients who underwent surgery had a 82% reduction in risk of death at one year follow-up.

First steps towards national screening for Barrett's esophagus

Researchers found that using a multi-step strategy with less-invasive devices can identify patients with Barrett's oesophagus before an endoscopy. This approach is promising for cost-effective screening, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of oesophageal cancer.

Nature Communications: Nivolumab and anlotinib show promising results in advanced stomach cancer

A recent clinical trial found that the Nivolumab and Anlotinib combination therapy significantly reduced tumor size in nearly one-third of patients, while most experienced stability in their condition. The treatment also showed improved survival outcomes compared to historical data, with a manageable safety profile.

Scientists discover how the body's killer cells attack cancer

Researchers have found that natural killer cells instinctively recognize and attack the XPO1 protein, which drives cancer growth. By targeting this protein, scientists may be able to activate more killer cells to destroy cancer cells. The study suggests that this approach could lead to personalized cancer treatment with less side effects.

The current status and prospects of early diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer in China

Esophageal cancer is a major public health concern in China, with late diagnoses contributing to poor prognosis. Early detection through screening methods like endoscopy and biomarker detection has shown significant outcomes, particularly in high-risk areas.

Chinese Medical Journal study charts the incidence and mortality of digestive system cancers

The study analyzes six major digestive system cancers worldwide and in China, revealing correlations between country HDI and cancer prevalence. Colorectal cancer is the most prevalent, while Asia accounts for 60.5% of new gastrointestinal cancer cases globally.

In clinical trial, fecal matter transplant helped half of patients with gastrointestinal cancers overcome resistance to immunotherapy treatment

A clinical trial found that fecal microbiota transplants can boost the effectiveness of immunotherapy in a range of gastrointestinal cancers. The study identified specific bacterial strains associated with better or worse responses, and showed promise for improving treatment outcomes.

Key driver for epithelial cancer development identified

A distinct TNF-α signaling program has been identified as a key driver of epithelial cancer development, contributing to cell proliferation and invasion. The researchers found that this program is active in both normal tissues and tumors, but its level of activity correlates with tumor aggressiveness.

Korea University identifies novel inhibitor HVH-2930 showing promise in overcoming trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer

A novel inhibitor HVH-2930 targeting heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) demonstrates efficacy against drug-resistant breast cancer cells. It selectively downregulates HER2 signaling, crucial for breast cancer progression, without triggering the heat shock response.

Robotic device restores wavelike muscular function involved in processes like digestion, aiding patients with compromised organs

A robotic device mimics natural esophageal and intestinal movement to aid digestion, helping patients with blockages caused by tumors or stents. The device has the potential to improve quality of life for the aging population.

New guideline: Barrett’s esophagus can precede esophageal cancer, but not all patients need a procedure to remove abnormal cells

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends considering endoscopic eradication therapy for patients with low-grade dysplasia after discussing risks and benefits. For patients with high-grade dysplasia, the AGA suggests removing abnormal pre-cancerous cells to reduce esophageal cancer mortality.

Study lays the basis for new knowledge on gastrointestinal diseases

Researchers have shed light on the complex communication between cells at the gastro-esophageal junction, revealing specific pathways and cellular composition. The study provides new starting points for understanding, preventing, and treating gastrointestinal diseases.

Periostin shows promise to help fight a common form of esophageal cancer

New findings in The American Journal of Pathology indicate that periostin promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by enhancing cancer and stromal cell migration in cancer-associated fibroblasts. Periostin may be a promising therapeutic target for treating ESCC.

Circulating tumor DNA levels predict treatment outcomes for patients with gastroesophageal cancer treated with a novel immunotherapy combination

A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that circulating tumor DNA levels can accurately assess how gastroesophageal cancers respond to treatment and predict future prognosis. The study tracked minimal residual disease by analyzing ctDNA, showing a correlation between ctDNA clearance and cancer-free survival.

Differential expression of Mad2 gene in human esophageal cancer

Researchers found Mad2 gene expression levels correlate with chromosomal abnormalities in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, highlighting potential as a clinical biomarker. The study also revealed the deregulation of the Rb-E2F1 circuit and its impact on histone modifications.

Getting esophageal cancer patients the right treatments faster

A multidisciplinary team created a new algorithm to provide optimal personalized treatment options for individuals with esophageal cancer. The framework uses various heterogeneous factors that facilitate the progression of the disease and demonstrated high accuracy in controlling esophageal cancer.

Why cancer immunotherapies don’t work for everyone

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that cancer cells can prevent the immune system from attacking them by inhibiting key checkpoints. Researchers found that monotherapy agents targeting these checkpoints may not be effective without an inflammatory trigger, explaining why some immunotherapies work while others fail.

Improving dietary habits of gastrointestinal cancer patients and their caregivers

A recent study from Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions aimed to understand the challenges and supports affecting individuals with GI cancer and their caregivers when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding malnutrition. The research highlighted the importance of creating dietary interventions that...

Growing microtumors in a dish helps rapidly identify genes that drive tumor growth

A new method has been developed to rapidly identify genes that drive tumor growth in various types of cancers. Organoids were used to test candidate genes, revealing promising targets for precision oncology. The study's findings may lead to the development of targeted therapies for patients with esophageal squamous cancer.

A potential early esophageal cancer antigen: DDX53

Researchers found that tumor-resident T-cell receptor sequences showed high complementarity with the cancer testis antigen DDX53, suggesting an immune response that selects for DDX53-negative cells. This association was correlated with worse disease-free survival rates, highlighting a potential early esophageal cancer antigen.

Hospitals serving large Black, Hispanic populations have fewer resources for cancer care

A UCLA study found that hospitals with high patient diversity are less likely to offer core cancer services, including hospice care, chemotherapy, and robotic surgery. The lack of these resources can impact treatment quality and outcomes for patients diagnosed with cancer.

Higher risk of 17 cancers after high BMI in late teens

Men who are overweight or obese at age 18 have a higher risk of developing 17 different cancers later in life. Higher BMI is also associated with an increased risk of mortality after cancer diagnosis for certain types of cancer.