Trusted Gastrointestinal Cancer Specialists
All your body’s systems are intricately connected, working together to keep you whole. That’s why we do more than just treat cancer — we provide whole-person care that addresses your physical, emotional and spiritual health needs, all of which require special care as you face your diagnosis.
Your digestive wellness experts at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth are renowned for leading the charge against gastrointestinal and colon cancers, including stomach, liver and pancreatic cancers, by participating in many of the latest clinical trials, providing a multidisciplinary approach and gently guiding you through your treatment plan. We'll keep you informed through every phase, help you channel your strength, cheer you on and lead you down a path to well-being.
What Is Gastrointestinal Cancer?
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer refers to a type of cancer that occurs in the organs of the digestive system, which include the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, colon and rectum. GI cancers can vary widely in their characteristics, symptoms and treatment approaches, but they all involve the abnormal and uncontrolled tumors within the digestive tract.
Find Gastrointestinal Cancer Care You Can Count On
You’ve got this, because you’ve got us. Get the expert care and support you need to face your cancer diagnosis and reclaim your life.
We’re by Your Side Every Step of the Way
Wellness is within reach. Catching GI cancer in the early stages gives you more treatment options and a higher possibility of positive outcomes. But getting there means asking all your questions and working through the answers together. At UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, we pave the way by providing a safe and soothing diagnostic environment, and offering the latest in genetic counseling, testing and imaging. Our imaging experts aim for same-day diagnostic test results so you can get answers and start treatment faster. We put the focus on giving you the full picture by offering minimally invasive diagnostic testing that may include the following:
Your doctors will start with a physical exam, review of symptoms and family history to assess your cancer risk.
These procedures use a flexible tube with a camera to view inside the digestive tract. Depending on the area of concern, this could include:
- Colonoscopy for the colon
- Upper endoscopy for the esophagus and stomach
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for close imaging of the stomach, pancreas and esophagus
Imaging Tests
CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans and ultrasounds can be used to create detailed images, showing any tumors or unusual growths.
Lab Tests
Blood tests can detect markers associated with GI cancers, such as liver enzymes or tumor markers like CEA or CA 19-9.
A small tissue sample is taken from suspicious areas during an endoscopy or imaging procedure, then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
For individuals with a strong family history, genetic tests can identify inherited mutations linked to GI cancers.
Know that you’ll always be heard. Our team of GI oncologists and other experts is here to answer any questions you may have about risk factors, the screening process, symptoms and anything in between.
Types of Gastrointestinal Cancer
At UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, we provide compassionate, expert support for our patients with all types of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, ensuring you receive personalized care tailored to your specific needs. You have access to a dedicated team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, oncologists and dietitians, who work together to create a comprehensive, holistic plan that prioritizes healing and quality of life.
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Esophageal Cancer
Two main types of esophageal cancer are adenocarcinoma, often linked to acid reflux and Barrett’s esophagus, and squamous cell carcinoma, which is common in those with a history of smoking or heavy alcohol use.
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Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer begins in the stomach lining, often in the cells that produce mucus. It’s commonly associated with factors like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, smoking and poor diet.
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Liver Cancer
The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Major risk factors include hepatitis infections, cirrhosis and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer affects either the exocrine cells, which produce digestive enzymes, or the endocrine cells, which produce hormones.
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Gallbladder Cancer
Risk factors for gallbladder cancer include gallstones, gallbladder inflammation and certain infections.
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Small Intestine Cancer
Small intestine cancer starts in the small intestine, with subtypes like adenocarcinoma, sarcoma and neuroendocrine tumors.
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Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum. It often begins as polyps that can become cancerous over time. Risk factors include age, family history, certain genetic conditions, diet and lifestyle.
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Anal Cancer
Anal cancer occurs in the anal canal and is often linked to HPV infection. This cancer is distinct from colorectal cancer and has different treatment approaches.
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Appendiceal Cancer
A rare cancer that starts in the appendix, appendiceal cancer is often discovered incidentally during surgeries for other conditions.
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Peritoneal Cancer
Peritoneal cancer originates in the peritoneum, the lining that covers the abdominal organs. This type of cancer is rare and may be associated with other cancers, like ovarian or colorectal cancer.
Advanced Treatments for Gastrointestinal Cancer
Every day you show us your strength. And we're here to support you with expertise, understanding and leading-edge care, which includes stomach, liver and colon cancer treatments. We strive to be at the forefront of the latest advances in surgical techniques that reduce pain, accelerate recovery times and lead to fewer complications so you can feel better, faster.
Within the UChicago Medicine AdventHealth network, highly skilled surgeons can treat you with pioneering laparoscopic and robotic digestive procedures that are rapidly becoming the standard in digestive-cancer care. And when needed, we’ll combine surgical procedures with chemotherapy and radiation to help support your gastrointestinal cancer treatment. Regardless of your circumstances, our team of GI oncologists, surgeons and other specialists will care for you with individualized attention and compassion.
- Surgery
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- Curative Surgery: Used when the cancer is localized and can be completely removed
- Palliative Surgery: Performed to relieve symptoms like pain or obstruction if the cancer is advanced and not fully removable
- Radiation Therapy
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- External Beam Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells
- Brachytherapy: A type of internal radiation where radioactive material is placed close to or within the tumor
- Chemotherapy
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Chemotherapy uses drugs that target and kill rapidly growing cells, including cancer cells. It can be given before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to eliminate residual cells, or as a standalone treatment in advanced cases.
- Targeted Therapy
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Targeted therapies attack specific molecules within cancer cells that contribute to tumor growth and spread. They're generally less harmful to normal cells than traditional chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy
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Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
- Radiation-Chemotherapy Combination
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This technique combines chemotherapy with radiation to improve treatment effectiveness.
- Ablation and Embolization Techniques
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- Ablation: Techniques that use heat to destroy cancer cells, often used for small liver tumors
- Embolization: A procedure in which chemotherapy is injected directly into the blood vessels supplying a tumor, combined with blocking agents to "starve" the tumor of its blood supply
- Clinical Trials
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Participating in clinical trials offers access to new and experimental treatments that are not widely available. Trials may include novel drugs, combinations of therapies, or innovative procedures.
- Palliative Care
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Palliative care aims to improve quality of life and manage symptoms, especially in advanced cancer cases. It includes pain management, nutritional support and psychological care.
The optimal treatment plan often involves a combination of these therapies and is guided by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other specialists.
Free Assessment: Know Your Colon Cancer Risk
When caught early, colorectal cancers are treatable and often curable. Our free and confidential assessment can help you understand your colorectal cancer risk and give you a great starting point for discussing preventive care strategies with your doctor.
Gastrointestinal Cancer FAQs
Our oncologists are here to answer your questions, and if you’re diagnosed, we’ll ensure you have all the information you need to feel informed and supported.
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Q:Question: What are the signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal cancer include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits and jaundice, among others.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerSigns and symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer can vary based on the type and location of the cancer, but here are some common indicators:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort: Persistent pain, cramping or discomfort in the abdomen
- Bloating or swelling in the abdomen: Abdominal swelling or a feeling of fullness
- Changes in bowel habits: This includes constipation, diarrhea or a change in stool consistency or color, such as black or tarry stools, which may indicate bleeding in the GI tract
- Difficulty swallowing: Where it becomes progressively harder to swallow solid foods and, eventually, liquids
- Fatigue or weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak, often due to anemia caused by internal bleeding
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly: Feeling full after eating small amounts or a loss of interest in eating
- Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be general signs of many GI issues, but persistent nausea or vomiting, especially if accompanied by blood
- Unintentional weight loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss
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Q:Question: What causes gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers can develop due to a mix of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerFamily history and inherited conditions raise the risk, while lifestyle habits, like diets high in red meat, smoking, heavy drinking and obesity, are also major contributors.
Infections, such as Helicobacter pylori for stomach cancer or hepatitis for liver cancer, increase risk, as do chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s. Age, certain environmental exposures and prior cancer treatments can also play a role. While not all causes are avoidable, adopting healthy habits and undergoing regular screenings can significantly lower your risk.
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Q:Question: How common is gastrointestinal cancer?
A:Answer:Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are among the most common and impactful types of cancers worldwide.
Continue ReadingCollapse AnswerTogether, they account for a substantial portion of all cancer cases. Their frequency raises awareness of the importance of early detection and preventive measures, such as cancer screenings, which can improve outcomes.
Feel Confident With Oncology Experts in Your Corner
No matter what diagnosis you face, our compassionate oncologists are here to deliver the expertise you deserve on your journey to remission.
Learn more about other UChicago Medicine AdventHealth General Oncology Specialties and Services.
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Breast Cancer
At UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, we provide low-cost breast cancer screenings and leading-edge breast cancer treatments catered to your specific needs and challenges.
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Gynecologic Cancer
We offer leading radiology and surgical technologies to target cervical, fallopian tube, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, vulvar and other reproductive-system cancers.
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Lung Cancer
With expert oncologists and top-of-the-line diagnostic testing, the whole-person care at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth is tailored to provide a proactive approach to lung cancer.