What is the general prognosis for esophageal cancer?

The chance of recovery for those diagnosed with esophageal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor and the patient's general health. The earlier the cancer is found, the better the patient's prognosis, according to Cancer.gov.

Whether or not the cancer affects all or part of the esophagus can impact the prognosis of those diagnosed with esophageal cancer. If the cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body, the prognosis can be negatively impacted. Many patients are diagnosed when the disease is in its advanced stages. Although the cancer can be treated in its later stages, cures of advanced stage esophageal cancer are rare, according to Cancer.gov.