There are two main types of cancer of the oesophagus. They are called adenocarcinoma and squamous carcinoma.

The cancer begins in the lining of the gullet. It sometimes narrows the oesophagus and makes it difficult to swallow. Usually food begins to lodge or stick at first, and then liquids may become difficult to swallow.

Adenocarcinoma is a cancer that forms in the cells of the glands that produce the mucus that helps us to swallow.

Squamous cell carcinomas form in cells that line the oesophagus.