The formation and development time of esophageal cancer varies from person to person, mainly related to genetic, dietary and environmental factors, and generally takes 5-10 years. Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the epithelial tissue of esophagus. If there is atypical hyperplasia of esophageal squamous epithelium, it indicates precancerous lesion and it takes about 5-10 years to develop into esophageal cancer, but the specific time is related to genetic factors, diet and environment. If a family member has suffered from esophageal cancer, the time to develop to esophageal cancer is shorter. Long-term bad dietary habits, such as eating too hot food for a long time, or smoking or drinking, etc., can easily promote the onset of esophageal cancer. If pre-cancerous lesions are found during patients’ physical examination, the time of esophageal cancer formation can be prolonged by adopting good dietary habits and surgical treatment. Therefore, it is recommended to pay attention to maintain good dietary habits, quit smoking and limit alcohol and have regular medical checkups for early detection and early treatment.