Esophageal cancer has emerged as a leading cancer concern in Bangladesh, with about 22,000 people diagnosed each year, according to 2020 World Health Organization data cited by Amar Desh Online on August 24, 2026. The report says the disease ranks after breast cancer among women and has a significant mortality rate. Esophageal cancer can develop from long-term inflammation or abnormal cell growth in the lining of the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

Warning signs include difficulty swallowing solid food that may later progress to trouble swallowing liquids or water, abdominal pain, frequent belching, heartburn, vomiting after meals, digestive problems such as constipation, and unexplained weight loss over several months.

Regular or excessive use of tobacco products, including betel leaf, jorda, cigarettes and bidis, may increase the risk. Risk is also associated with undercooked or heavily fried food and long-term consumption of foods high in preservatives. Diagnosis commonly involves endoscopy and biopsy, while treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy depending on the disease type and stage.