Perspective,  J Clin Exp Oncol Vol: 13 Issue: 5

Evaluating the Types, Detection and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancer

Masaki Hiroma^*

¹Department of Surgery, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan

*Corresponding Author: Masaki Hiroma,
Department of Surgery, Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
E-mail: masaki_hiroma@fuc.jp

Received date: 23 September, 2024, Manuscript No. JCEOG-24-152417;

Editor assigned date: 25 September, 2024, PreQC No. JCEOG-24-152417 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 09 October, 2024, QC No. JCEOG-24-152417;

Revised date: 16 October, 2024, Manuscript No. JCEOG-24-152417 (R);

Published date: 23 October, 2024, DOI: 10.4172/2324-9110.1000433

Citation: Hiroma M (2024) Evaluating the Types, Detection and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancer. J Clin Exp Oncol 13:5.

Description

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer includes a group of cancers affecting the digestive system, including the stomach, liver, pancreas, esophagus, colon and rectum. GI cancers rank among the most common malignancies worldwide, impacting millions each year. Due to diverse organ involvement, GI cancers present with a wide range of symptoms, difficulties in diagnosing and treatment approaches. Early detection is essential for effective management and improved survival rates, while recent advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics are expanding treatment options for affected patients. Gastrointestinal cancers are classified based on the specific organ they affect. Esophageal cancer this cancer develops in the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. Esophageal cancer is typically classified into squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the cells lining the esophagus and adenocarcinoma, which forms in glandular cells. Risk factors include smoking, alcohol use and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Stomach cancer arises in the stomach lining, often starting with symptoms like indigestion, bloating or a loss of appetite. Factors like Helicobacter pylori infection, certain dietary habits, smoking and family history increase the risk of gastric cancer. Cancer of the colon or rectum, often grouped as colorectal cancer is one of the most common GI cancers. It begins as small, noncancerous polyps that can evolve into malignant tumors over time. Risk factors include a highfat diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and a family history of the disease. Liver cancer, or hepatocellular carcinoma, frequently develops in individuals with liver cirrhosis due to chronic Hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol abuse or fatty liver disease. Symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain and sudden weight loss. Pancreatic cancer often goes undetected in its early stages due to vague symptoms.

However, when symptoms do appear, they may include abdominal pain, weight loss and jaundice. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes and a family history of pancreatic cancer. Gallbladder and bile duct cancers these are rare cancers affect the gallbladder and the bile ducts. Gallbladder cancer is associated with risk factors such as gallstones and chronic inflammation, while bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) is linked to liver fluke infections, bile duct abnormalities and chronic liver disease. Early detection of gastrointestinal cancers is essential for improving prognosis and survival rates. While symptoms vary across different GI cancers, common signs include unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits and difficulty swallowing. Endoscopy is a key diagnostic tool for detecting GI cancers in the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.

Using a flexible tube with a camera, physicians can directly visualize abnormalities and perform biopsies to confirm malignancy. Colonoscopy is the most common method for colorectal cancer screening, allowing doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum for polyps or tumors. Removal of polyps during colonoscopy can also reduce the risk of cancer development. Various imaging tests, including Computerised Tomography (CT) scans, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRIs), Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans and ultrasounds, help assess tumor size, location and spread to nearby structures or distant organs. Imaging is especially useful for staging and planning treatment.

Certain blood markers, like Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) for liver cancer, Carcino-Embryonic Antigen (CEA) for colorectal cancer and Cancer Antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) for pancreatic cancer can indicate the presence of GI cancers. However, these markers are not specific and are often used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods. Genetic tests are becoming essential for evaluating hereditary GI cancers, particularly in patients with a family history of colorectal cancer or syndromes like Lynch syndrome. Identifying specific gene mutations can guide specific treatment plans. The treatment of gastrointestinal cancers varies significantly depending on the cancer type, stage, patient health and treatment objectives. The primary treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy.

Surgery is often the first-line treatment for localized GI cancers. In early-stage cancers, minimally invasive techniques can be used to remove tumors, while advanced cancers may require partial or complete removal of affected organs, such as colectomy for colon cancer or gastrectomy for stomach cancer. Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and can be directed before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to destroy remaining cancer cells. It is commonly used for pancreatic, gastric and colorectal cancers and may be used in combination with other treatments. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. This method is especially beneficial for esophageal and rectal cancers, where it can shrink tumors before surgery or relieve symptoms in advanced cases. Radiation is often used in combination with chemotherapy for maximum effectiveness.

Conclusion

Gastrointestinal cancers represent a diverse group of malignancies, each with unique characteristics, risk factors and treatment challenges. While advancements in diagnostic tools and modified therapies are improving detection and treatment outcomes, early intervention remains key to enhancing survival rates. Regular screenings, a balanced diet and lifestyle adjustments are essential preventive measures, especially for individuals at high risk. By continuing studies and developing targeted treatments, the medical community can work toward reducing the impact of GI cancers and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.