Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancers
November 22, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Laleh Melstrom, M.D., M.S., associate professor of surgery and immuno-oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a broad term for cancers that affect the digestive system. This group includes cancers of the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas and colon, as well as some other organs. Around the world, these five most common GI cancers make up more than a quarter of all cancers and more than a third of all cancer-related deaths.
GI cancers vary greatly in their causes and how they are managed, making them a complex area of study and treatment. Each type has its own risk factors, symptoms and treatment options. City of Hope® is a leader in studying and caring for patients with GI cancers, providing comprehensive, innovative treatments.
Gastrointestinal cancer refers to cancers that start forming in the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas and colon. These cancers develop when normal cells in the GI tract become abnormal and malignant. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, age, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, a diet high in processed foods, infections and chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Early detection and lifestyle modifications may significantly improve outcomes for people at risk.
Gastrointestinal cancers include several types, affecting various parts of the digestive system. The main types include colorectal cancer, which impacts the colon or rectum, and stomach (gastric) cancer, which develops in the stomach lining. Other significant types are liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), pancreatic cancer, appendix cancer and esophageal cancer. Less commonly, GI cancers may also affect the bile duct, gallbladder or small intestine. Each GI cancer type has its own treatment options and prognosis.
City of Hope is a leader in GI cancer research, offering patients access to innovative clinical trials that seek to develop new treatments. When patients receive care at City of Hope, this proximity to our research labs means new discoveries may be directly applied to patient care. This ensures patients benefit from the newest advancements in GI cancer treatment. With a strong commitment to research and patient-focused care, City of Hope stands out as a top choice for those seeking comprehensive cancer treatment.
City of Hope is a guiding light that supports GI cancer patients with an integrative approach to managing the physical and emotional side effects of cancer treatment. Patients benefit from personalized care plans that include the latest advancements in GI cancer treatment, nutritional counseling, pain management and psychological support. City of Hope ensures that every patient receives compassionate, up-to-date care throughout their treatment journey, providing a strong network of support to enhance his or her quality of life.
Morgado-Diaz JA, editor. Gastrointestinal cancers, September 30, 2022.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK586002/Arnold M, Abnet CC, Neale RE, Vignat J, Giovannucci EL, McGlynn KA, Bray F. Global Burden of 5 Major Types of Gastrointestinal Cancer. Gastroenterology, July 2020.
PMID: 32247694American College of Gastroenterology. Gastrointestinal cancers, April 2021.
https://gi.org/topics/gastrointestinal-cancers/#tabs2American College of Gastroenterology. Colorectal cancer, 2024.
https://gi.org/topics/colorectal-cancer/#tabs2
Our Gastrointestinal Cancer Expertise
At City of Hope, we provide our patients with access to breakthrough cancer treatments in an environment centered on compassionate care.
Our team works together to ensure patients receive the best gastrointestinal cancer treatments and the best survival outcomes.
Program highlights:
- Minimally invasive, robotically assisted surgical techniques to remove GI tumors with less discomfort, reduced risk of complications and shorter recovery times
- Leading-edge treatment options, including highly precise radiation therapy to treat tumors with minimal exposure to surrounding normal tissue
- Targeted drugs and drug combinations that treat advanced GI cancers with greater effectiveness and fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy
- A wide range of GI cancer clinical trials, giving patients access to the newest cancer treatments and tests not readily available elsewhere
- Supportive care services to help patients and their loved ones with wellness and palliative care issues that may arise during and after GI cancer treatment
City of Hope understands the complexities of treating GI cancers, with a focus not only on world-class care, but also on a patient-centered approach. We deliver the highest standard of care for GI cancer patients and their loved ones.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, minimally invasive surgery and GI cancer treatments are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to GI cancer care.
