What Is the Outcome of Cancer of the Esophagus?

The outcome or prognosis of cancer of the esophagus largely depends on the stage of the cancer. The earlier your cancer is detected, the better the prognosis. Cancer stages are determined largely based upon whether the cancer is contained in one area, spread to organs in close proximity or spread to organs that are distant.

Statistics

• According to the American Cancer Society, survival rates for cancer of the esophagus are improving. In the 1960s approximately 4 percent of patients survived for five years after being diagnosed, while in 2009, approximately 18 percent of patients survive five years or more.

Stage 0 Prognosis

• According to the American Cancer Society, stage 0 cancer has the best outlook with an approximate five-year survival rate of 95 percent. In this stage, the cancer is contained to the cells which line your esophagus.

Stage I Prognosis

• Stage I esophageal cancer is characterized by the cancer growing into the connective tissue under the lining of your esophagus and has a five-year survival rate of 50 to 80 percent.

Stages II and Stage III Prognosis

• Stage II cancer of the esophagus has a 10 to 40 percent five-year survival rate. Stage III esophageal cancer has a 10 to 15 percent survival rate.

Stage IV Prognosis

• Stage IV cancer of the esophagus is characterized by the spread of the cancer throughout your body and, according to the American Cancer Society, has a less than 5 percent five-year survival rate.