Gastrointestinal Cancer - Types, Symptoms and Treatment

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What are the symptoms of Digestive Cancers?

Digestive cancers, including gastrointestinal cancer and stomach cancer, often develop silently in their early stages, making awareness of symptoms critical for early detection. While symptoms may vary based on the specific location and type of the cancer within the digestive tract, common signs often include:

Persistent Abdominal Pain or Discomfort

Ongoing pain, bloating, or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen may signal underlying digestive system diseases, especially when localized to a particular area.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Significant weight loss without dietary changes or increased physical activity can be a red flag for digestive system disorders, including cancers of the stomach or intestines.

Changes in Bowel Habits

This may include prolonged constipation, chronic diarrhea, or a sudden shift in bowel movements, indicating potential digestive tract problems or blockages caused by tumors.

Blood in Stool or Vomit

The appearance of blood—bright red, dark, or tarry—in stool or vomit is often a serious symptom linked to digestive tract cancers and should be evaluated immediately.

Indigestion or Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Frequent indigestion, heartburn, or trouble swallowing can point to conditions such as esophageal or stomach cancer, especially when these issues persist over time.

Loss of Appetite or Feeling Full Quickly

Feeling full after eating small amounts, or an unexplained decrease in appetite, may be a sign of stomach or upper digestive tract cancers that affect digestion and nutrient absorption.

If you notice any of these digestive tract problem symptoms, it’s important to seek early medical evaluation.

Diagnosis

Endoscopy & Colonoscopy

These minimally invasive procedures allow direct visualization of the digestive tract, helping to detect tumors, ulcers, or abnormal tissue in the esophagus, stomach, and colon.

Biopsy

During an endoscopy or colonoscopy, tissue samples may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence and type of cancer cells.

CT, MRI, and PET-CT Scans

Advanced imaging techniques provide detailed cross-sectional views of internal organs, helping doctors assess tumor size, location, and possible metastasis.

Tumor Markers & Blood Tests

Certain cancers produce specific markers detectable in blood tests. These assist in diagnosis, monitoring treatment response, and checking for recurrence.

Ultrasound & Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

These techniques are particularly useful for assessing the pancreas, liver, and nearby lymph nodes, often guiding biopsy or surgical planning.

Types of Digestive Cancers

Digestive cancers, also referred to as gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, can affect various parts of the digestive system. Common types include:

Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Begins in the lining of the stomach and often linked to H. pylori infections or dietary factors.
Colorectal Cancer: Affects the colon or rectum and is often detected through routine screenings like colonoscopies.
Esophageal Cancer: Occurs in the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, commonly linked to smoking, alcohol, and GERD.
Pancreatic Cancer: Known for its aggressive nature, it affects the pancreas and may involve the Whipple procedure for treatment.
Liver Cancer: Can develop in those with chronic liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Small Intestine Cancer: Rare but potentially serious, often diagnosed late due to vague symptoms.
Gallbladder & Bile Duct Cancers: Often associated with gallstones and chronic inflammation in the biliary system.

Causes

Digestive system disorders that progress into cancer often stem from a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related factors. Common causes include:

Genetic Predisposition: A family history of digestive cancers may increase your risk.
Poor Diet & Obesity: High intake of processed foods and low fiber consumption are key risk factors.
Smoking & Alcohol Use: Both contribute significantly to cancers of the esophagus, stomach, liver, and colon.
Chronic Inflammation: Conditions such as IBD or long-term infections like Helicobacter pylori can cause cellular changes that lead to cancer.
Age & Gender: Risk increases with age, and some types have higher prevalence based on gender.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Physical inactivity can lead to obesity and sluggish digestion, raising the risk of colorectal cancer.

Surgical Conditions

Surgery is a primary mode of treatment for many early-stage digestive cancers and is often curative when performed early. Common surgical interventions include:

Colectomy: Partial or total removal of the colon, usually performed in cases of colorectal cancer.

Gastrectomy: Surgical removal of part or all of the stomach for treating stomach cancer.

Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): A complex surgery for pancreatic cancer that involves removing the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, and other nearby structures.

Liver Resection: Removal of a portion of the liver affected by cancer while preserving healthy tissue.

Laparoscopic Tumor Removal: Minimally invasive surgery that allows for precise removal of tumors through small incisions, aiding in faster recovery and reduced risk.

Treatments & Procedures

Treatment plans for digestive system cancers are personalized and often involve a multi-modal approach that may include:

Surgery (Open and Minimally Invasive) Chemotherapy Targeted Therapy Immunotherapy Radiation Therapy Nutritional Support & Palliative Care

Surgery (Open and Minimally Invasive)

Removal of tumors and affected tissue remains the cornerstone of curative treatment in many cases.

Chemotherapy

Drug-based therapy that targets rapidly dividing cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery or as a standalone treatment in advanced stages.

Targeted Therapy

Focuses on specific genetic mutations or proteins in cancer cells, offering more precise and often less toxic treatment options.

Immunotherapy

Enhances the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, used in selected cases based on biomarker testing.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy beams are used to shrink or destroy tumors, particularly effective for localized esophageal, rectal, or pancreatic cancers.

Nutritional Support & Palliative Care

Digestive cancers often impair appetite and nutrient absorption. Nutritionists and palliative care teams work alongside oncologists to maintain strength and comfort during treatment.

Prevention and Awareness

Meet our team of gastroenterologists and oncologists who specialize in digestive cancer

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Gastroenterology team

Dr. S. Paulvannan

MS, DNB, FRCS (Glasg), FRCS (Gen.Surg), CSST, HPB Fellow (Cambridge, UK).,

Consultant Surgical Gastro, Advanced Laparoscopic, HPB and GI Onco & Bariatric Surgeon

Dr. A. Sandip Chandrasekar

MS, M.Ch (SGE), DNB (GI.Surgery), FALS (Bariatric).,

Consultant Surgical Gastro, Advanced Laparoscopic, HPB,GI Oncology and Bariatric Surgeon

Dr. S. Soundappan

MBBS(MMC), MS(KEM, Mum), MRCS(UK), DNB - Surg Gastro (AIG, Hyd), FALS-Robotic, Fellowship-Hepatobiliary Surgery(AIG,Hyd), Fellowship-Liver transplant(CLBS,Delhi).,

Consultant - Gastro, Minimally invasive, and Liver transplantation surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are common digestive system problems that can lead to cancer?

Chronic digestive issues like ulcers, GERD, IBD, and infections can increase cancer risk over time.

2. What is the treatment for stomach cancer?

Depending on the stage, stomach cancer treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

3. What causes breathing difficulty in digestive cancers?

Advanced cancers or associated complications like ascites or metastasis may lead to pressure on the lungs.

4. Is snoring, sneezing, or wheezing related to digestive cancers?

Not directly. However, reflux or GERD-related conditions may cause throat irritation and breathing issues in some cases.

5. Is tuberculosis linked to digestive system disorders?

Abdominal TB is a known form of extrapulmonary TB and can mimic digestive tract problems.

" JCI & NABH Accredited Hospital "

Digestive Cancer Care at
Royal Care Hospital

What are the symptoms of Digestive Cancers?

Persistent Abdominal Pain or Discomfort

Unexplained Weight Loss

Changes in Bowel Habits

Blood in Stool or Vomit

Indigestion or Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Loss of Appetite or Feeling Full Quickly

Diagnosis

Types of Digestive Cancers

Causes