Esophageal cancer. Facts, figures, and screening.

Over the last 25 years, the incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus has increased 350%, faster than any other malignancy in the western world. This increase is largely due to gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus. While the current incidence of esophageal cancer is relatively low in comparison to other cancers in the United States, this may rapidly change. A cost-effective screening technique is needed for populations at risk for adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. Using unsedated esophagoscopy, gastroenterology nurses may be in the best position to coordinate and perform esophageal cancer screening for the U.S. population. This article provides an overview of esophageal cancer, including types, etiology, symptoms, and diagnosis. In addition to an overview of esophageal cancer, this article provides a look at non-physician, unsedated esophagoscopy as a future direction for esophageal cancer screening.