Cancer of the food pipe often grows quietly, but it sends out clear signals once the tumor gets big enough to block or irritate the tube. Knowing those signs early can make the difference between a small, curable tumor and one that has already spread. The first complaint many people notice is trouble swallowing. It can feel as if food is hanging up in the chest or taking extra gulps to get down. At first only dry foods like bread or meat stick, but over weeks liquids can also slow. Pain behind the breastbone that feels like bad heartburn or... Learn more