Mercy Health – Springfield Emphasizes Importance of Recognizing Esophageal Cancer Symptoms During Awareness Month

​In recognition of Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month this April, Mercy Health – Springfield is encouraging the community to understand the risks, recognize symptoms and seek timely care. While less commonly discussed than other cancers, esophageal cancer remains a serious diagnosis, as it is often identified at later stages.

 
According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 22,070 people in the United States were diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2025 and about 16,250 died from the disease. The five-year survival rate is about 21.9%, highlighting the need for greater awareness and early evaluation.
 
The esophagus is a long, muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Cancer can develop in its lining, most commonly as squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. The disease is more common in men than in women.
 
“Esophageal cancer is one of the cancers where early symptoms are often overlooked or attributed to less serious conditions,” said Dr. Joshua Martin, radiation oncologist at Mercy Health – Springfield. “We want people to understand that ongoing difficulty swallowing, persistent reflux or unexplained weight loss are not symptoms to ignore. Earlier evaluation gives us more opportunities to intervene and guide patients to the most effective care.”
 
The National Cancer Institute notes that unlike some cancers, there is no standard screening test for esophageal cancer among the general population. Patients at higher risk, including those with Barrett esophagus, may undergo regular monitoring through endoscopy. During this procedure, physicians examine the esophagus using a small camera to identify abnormal changes. Researchers are also working to develop less invasive screening approaches, reflecting ongoing progress in cancer detection.
 
Treatment options vary based on the stage of cancer and overall health. Care may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of these approaches. The National Cancer Institute cites that immunotherapy is also emerging as an important treatment, helping the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells in certain cases.
 
Mercy Health takes a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, bringing together specialists to evaluate each patient’s condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. The organization remains committed to helping patients navigate complex diagnoses with clarity, compassion and access to advanced therapies.
 
“Awareness is critical with esophageal cancer because there is no routine screening for most people,” said Lisa Gibson, director of oncology services at Mercy Health – Springfield. “That means education and early conversations with a provider are some of the most powerful tools we have. Our goal is to make sure patients feel informed, supported and confident in the care they receive.”
 
Signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer may include:

• Difficulty or pain with swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Hoarseness or ongoing throat discomfort
• Pain behind the breastbone
• A lump under the skin

 
The oncology team at the Mercy Health – Springfield and Urbana Cancer Centers encourages residents in Clark and Champaign counties and the surrounding region to take the following steps:

• Talk to your provider about persistent swallowing or digestive symptoms
• Manage risk factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use
• Seek care for chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Share information with family and friends to increase awareness

 
“Esophageal cancer awareness is about giving people the knowledge they need to act on changes in their health,” Gibson said.
 
By increasing awareness and encouraging early action, Mercy Health aims to improve outcomes and ensure patients have access to the care and support they need throughout their cancer journey.
 
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About Mercy Health - Springfield 
Mercy Health – Springfield is part of Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) one of the 20 largest health systems in the United States and the fifth-largest Catholic health system in the country. The ministry’s quality, compassionate care is provided by nearly 60,000 associates serving communities in Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia, as well as in Ireland and the Philippines. BSMH provides care for patients nearly 14 million times annually through its network of more than 1,200 care sites, which includes 47 hospitals. In 2025, BSMH invested more than $500 million in its communities across five states, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to health care for our patients in need. Locally, Mercy Health – Springfield, which includes Springfield Regional Medical Center and Urbana Hospital, has a mission to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of our communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. Mercy Health – Springfield is a comprehensive, regional health care system, known for quality, innovation, compassionate service and a caring culture. With two hospitals and numerous physician offices and care locations, Mercy Health ensures easy access to safe, effective, timely and cost-efficient care for every stage of life through a network of hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities as well as rehabilitation and outreach services. The mission of Bon Secours Mercy Health is to extend the compassionate ministry of Jesus by improving the health and well-being of its communities and bring good help to those in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. Visit mercy.com for additional information.