Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers
What Are GAstrointestinal Cancers
Gastrointestinal, or GI, cancers are cancers that develop in the digestive system and related organs.
The gastrointestinal system includes the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus, as well as organs involved in digestion such as the liver, pancreas and gallbladder.
Because GI cancers can develop in different organs and behave differently, an accurate diagnosis is important in determining the most appropriate treatment.
What Types of GI Cancer Are Treated?
Oncura Health provides care for a range of gastrointestinal cancers, including:
Colorectal cancer
Esophageal cancer
Gallbladder cancer
Liver cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Stomach cancer
Each type of GI cancer has its own risk factors, symptoms and treatment considerations. Your physician will evaluate your specific diagnosis and develop a care plan based on the type and stage of cancer, your overall health and other individual factors.
What Causes Gastrointestinal Cancer?
There is no single cause of gastrointestinal cancer, and risk factors vary depending on where the cancer develops.
Certain factors may increase the risk of some GI cancers, including age, family history, inherited genetic conditions, tobacco or alcohol use, obesity, chronic inflammation or other medical conditions.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop cancer, and some people diagnosed with GI cancer have no known risk factors.
How Are Gastrointestinal Cancers Diagnosed?
The diagnostic process depends on the type of cancer being evaluated and your symptoms.
Your physician may recommend blood tests, imaging studies, endoscopy or other procedures that allow the care team to examine the digestive tract. A biopsy may be performed to collect a tissue sample and determine whether cancer cells are present.
Additional testing may be used to learn more about the cancer and whether it has spread. This information helps your care team determine the stage of the disease and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer vary depending on where the cancer develops and may also be caused by conditions unrelated to cancer.
Possible signs and symptoms may include:
Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
Changes in bowel habits
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Yellowing of the skin or eyes
If you experience symptoms that are new, persistent or unusual for you, talk with your healthcare provider.
Treatment Options
Treatment for gastrointestinal cancer depends on the type of cancer, its stage and other individual factors.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of treatments.
Your care team will explain the options appropriate for your diagnosis, answer your questions and work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Our Approach at Oncura Health
At Oncura Health, expert cancer care starts with understanding the person behind the diagnosis.
Our physicians and care teams work collaboratively to provide personalized care based on your specific cancer and individual needs. We take the time to explain your options, answer your questions and make sure you understand what comes next.
From diagnosis through treatment and ongoing care, we're here to provide the expertise, communication and support you need throughout your journey.hese cancers can affect different areas of the reproductive system and may behave very differently. An accurate diagnosis helps your care team determine the type and stage of cancer and develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs.