Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the esophagus—the long, muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It typically begins in the inner lining of the esophagus and can spread to surrounding tissues. The two main types are adenocarcinoma (more common in the lower esophagus) and squamous cell carcinoma (more common in the upper part). Risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol, chronic acid reflux, and obesity. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.