FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month: Join the Movement to Save Lives Through Early Detection and Action

Washington, D.C. — April 2026 — April marks Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month (ECAM), a nationwide effort led by the Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN) to raise awareness about one of the fastest-growing and most deadly cancers in the United States. This year, ECAN is proud to partner with Castle Biosciences to amplify the critical importance of early detection and risk-informed care.

Esophageal cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages, when treatment options are limited and survival rates are significantly lower. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, ECAN is working to change that reality.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection remains one of the most powerful tools to improve cancer outcomes. Conditions like Barrett’s esophagus—a known precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma—present a key opportunity to identify patients at risk before cancer develops or progresses.

Shifting this paradigm requires a more proactive, risk-informed approach to patient care, with a focus on identifying high-risk individuals earlier and intervening sooner to improve outcomes.

Innovative tools like TissueCypher® are helping physicians move beyond generalized surveillance toward more personalized, evidence-based care—giving patients a better chance at early detection and improved outcomes.

A Shared Commitment to Patients

ECAN’s collaboration with Castle Biosciences reflects a shared mission: to advance early detection, expand education, and empower both physicians and patients with the tools and knowledge needed to act sooner.

“Awareness leads to action—and action drives survivability,” said Alyssa O’Driscoll, Executive Director of ECAN. “Together, we are working to ensure more patients are identified earlier, when treatment can be most effective and outcomes can be improved.”

How to Get Involved This April

ECAN invites individuals, families, healthcare providers, and communities to take action during Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month:

  • Join the Virtual “Steps to Save Lives” 5K (April 17–24): Walk, run, or roll from anywhere to raise awareness and honor those impacted.
  • Wear Periwinkle on April 17 (Periwinkle Power Day): Show your support by wearing esophageal cancer’s signature color and sharing on social media.
  • Light Up Your Community in Periwinkle: Help illuminate buildings, landmarks, and skylines to spark conversation and awareness.
  • Advocate for Change: Contact your governor to declare April Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month in your state and urge Congress to continue funding critical research.
  • Support the Mission: Join ECAN’s Fight Club monthly giving program to help fund research, awareness campaigns, and patient support services.

About ECAN

The Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN) is a leading nonprofit dedicated to saving lives by increasing awareness about the link between chronic heartburn and esophageal cancer, advocating for research funding, and supporting patients and families.

Media Contact:

Alyssa O’Driscoll
alyssa@ecan.org