Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a term that refers to various cancers that develop in the digestive tract and related organs. These cancers can affect the oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, intestines, and other parts of the digestive system. As one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide, understanding the different types, symptoms, and risk factors is critical to early detection and effective treatment of GI cancer. Here, we look at the various types of GI cancer, their warning signs, and risk reduction strategies.
What Are Gastrointestinal Cancers?
Gastrointestinal cancer is a group of cancers originating in the digestive system, also known as the gastrointestinal tract. These cancers occur when cancer cells form in the tissues lining the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, interfering with their normal function. The type and severity of gastrointestinal cancer depend on the specific organ affected and early diagnosis. Primary gastrointestinal cancer begins in the gastrointestinal tract, while metastatic gastrointestinal cancer begins in the gastrointestinal tract and then spreads to other parts of the body.
The Digestive System and Its Role in Your Health
The digestive system breaks down food, engrosses nutrients, and removes waste. The main organs of this system include:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Small and large intestines
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Gallbladder
The development of cancer in any part of this system can disrupt digestion, absorption of nutrients, and overall health of a person.
Common Types of Gastrointestinal Cancers
1.Esophageal Cancer
Oesophageal cancer affects the oesophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, often called the oesophagus. There are two main types of oesophageal growth: squamous cell carcinoma, which affects mainly the upper or middle part of the oesophagus, and adenocarcinoma, which affects the lower part.
2.Stomach (Gastric) Growth
Stomach cancer, also recognized as gastric cancer, is a rare but potentially dangerous disease that begins in the lining of the stomach and can spread to other parts of the body. People over 55 are more likely to develop stomach cancer, with men being affected twice as often as women. Different types of stomach cancer are classified according to the cells from which they arise. Adenocarcinomas arise from glandular cells and are the most common type of stomach cancer. Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs), also called gastric sarcomas, affect the interstitial cells of the gastrointestinal tract. Carcinoid tumours, also called neuroendocrine tumours, affect the hormone-producing cells of the stomach.
3.Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer develops in the tissues of the colon or rectum and is one of the most common types of gastrointestinal cancer. It is the third most common form of cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancer.
4.Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer develops in the substances of the pancreas, the structure that produces enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that regulate blood sugar. The most shared type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which develops from the cells lining the ducts of the pancreas.
5.Liver Cancer
Liver cancer can arise from the liver lockups themselves or spread from other organs (metastatic). Cancer that begins in the liver is less common than cancer that begins in different parts of the body and spreads to the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most shared type of liver cancer, arising from liver cells. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and hepatoblastoma are other, less common types.
6.Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer
These cancers affect the gallbladder or bile ducts, which help digest food by storing and transporting bile. Cancer that develops anywhere in the bile ducts is called cholangiocarcinoma. These cancers are rare but aggressive and are becoming more common in the United States.
7.Small Intestine Cancer
Small intestine cancer is rare and affects the part of the digestive system that absorbs nutrients. Different types of cancer can grow in the small intestine, which comprises many other types of cells. There are four main types of minor intestine cancer: adenocarcinomas, which develop from the glandular cells that line the inside of the intestine; carcinoid tumors, a kind of neuroendocrine tumor that is the most common tumor of the small intestine; lymphomas, which develop from immune cells called lymphocytes; and sarcomas, which grow from connective tissue such as muscle. Stomach stromal tumours (GISTs) are the most common sarcomas of the intestine.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Cancers
Symptoms of gastrointestinal growth vary depending on the type and stage of the disease. In the early stages, gastrointestinal cancer often has no symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Change in bowel habits
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms consistently, it is optional that you seek immediate medical attention.
Risk Factors and Causes
Several factors increase the risk of developing gastrointestinal cancers, including:
- Family history: Having a history of gastrointestinal cancer may increase your risk.
- Diet: A diet high in processed meat, salt, and low in fibre has been linked to gastrointestinal cancer.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol ingesting, and obesity are major risk factors.
- Chronic conditions: GERD, Crohn’s disease, and chronic hepatitis increase your risk of developing cancer.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as those caused by H. pylori and hepatitis viruses, have been linked to gastrointestinal cancer.
Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Cancers
Treatment for GI cancer depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual health factors. Options for treatment may include:
- Surgery: removing the tumour and affected tissue.
- Chemotherapy: using drugs to attack and kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: high-energy energy to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy: medicines that act on specific molecules in cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: strengthening the resistant system to fight cancer.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection dramatically upsurges the chances of successful treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Screening methods such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies can detect precancerous lesions and cancer at an early stage. Regular checkups and promptly contacting a doctor if any symptoms appear are essential for early detection of gastrointestinal cancer.
How to Lower Your Risk for Gastrointestinal Cancers
You can reduce your risk by accepting a healthy lifestyle. Experts recommend the following for a healthy lifestyle that lowers your risk of developing GI cancers:
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit processed foods.
- Stay active: Regular exercise helps you sustain a healthy weight.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Both increase your risk of many types of gastrointestinal cancer.
- Get vaccinated: Hepatitis B and HPV vaccines can reduce your risk.
- Stay informed: Learn about your domestic history and discuss screening options with your doctor.
Gastrointestinal cancer can be a severe disease, but awareness, prevention, and early detection can make a big difference in the forecast and quality of life of people diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancer.