Overview
Gastrointestinal cancers are among the most common cancers. Early diagnosis improves treatment options, so persistent digestive symptoms should be checked.
Symptoms
- Difficulty swallowing
- Indigestion or abdominal pain that does not go away
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting or feeling full quickly
- Blood in vomit or stool, or black stools
- Change in bowel habit
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include older age, smoking, alcohol, obesity, a diet high in processed meat, H. pylori infection, long-standing reflux, chronic hepatitis and family history.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis uses endoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy, CT scans and blood tests.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for difficulty swallowing, persistent indigestion, weight loss, bleeding or change in bowel habit.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
