Gastrointestinal Cancer

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Gastrointestinal Cancer

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are cancers that develop within the digestive system. They can affect several organs involved in digestion, including the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, colon, rectum and anus.

Because gastrointestinal cancers can develop in different areas of the digestive system, symptoms, treatment options and outcomes can vary considerably. The type and location of the cancer, how far it has spread and other characteristics of the tumor all help determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

At Rocky Mountain Oncology Center, we understand how difficult it can be to choose the right team for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. Our goal is to provide advanced treatment options from highly trained professionals in a comfortable, compassionate setting close to home.

Types of Gastrointestinal Cancer Include:

Esophageal cancer
Stomach (gastric) cancer
Liver cancer
Gallbladder and biliary tract cancers
Pancreatic cancer
Small intestine cancer
Colorectal cancer
Anal cancer
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)
Neuroendocrine tumors affecting the gastrointestinal tract

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Cancer May Include:

Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Frequent heartburn or indigestion
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling full after eating only a small amount
Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Dark or black stools
Abdominal swelling or bloating
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Unusual weakness or fatigue

Symptoms can vary depending on where the cancer develops and how advanced it is. Many of these symptoms can also be caused by conditions unrelated to cancer, so persistent, worsening or unexplained symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Treating Gastrointestinal Cancer with Radiation

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and damage cancer cells while limiting radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Depending on the type and location of the gastrointestinal cancer, radiation therapy may be used to destroy cancer cells, shrink or control a tumor, relieve cancer-related symptoms or reduce the risk of cancer returning.

Radiation may be given before surgery to help shrink a tumor, after surgery to target remaining cancer cells or as part of the primary treatment when surgery is not appropriate. For certain gastrointestinal cancers, radiation therapy may also be given together with chemotherapy to improve the effectiveness of treatment.

Your treatment is custom-tailored to your diagnosis, tumor size, location, stage and individual needs. Your radiation oncologist will review the available treatment options and develop a personalized treatment plan based on established treatment guidelines.

At Rocky Mountain Oncology Center, advanced radiation technology allows our team to precisely target the treatment area while working to minimize radiation exposure to nearby healthy organs and tissue.

Why Choose Rocky Mountain Oncology Center for Gastrointestinal Cancer Care?

At Rocky Mountain Oncology Center, we understand that gastrointestinal cancers can vary significantly depending on where they develop and how they affect the body. Our experienced oncology team provides personalized treatment and compassionate support based on your specific diagnosis, stage, symptoms and individual treatment goals.

We combine advanced cancer treatment with a comfortable, caring environment close to home. From treatment planning through follow-up care, our team works alongside you and your other healthcare providers to deliver coordinated care and help you feel informed and supported throughout your treatment journey.

Experienced oncology specialists focused on kidney and adrenal gland cancer treatment
Treatment plans tailored to your specific gastrointestinal cancer, stage and individual goals
Advanced radiation therapy technology designed for precision and accuracy
Treatment options for a variety of cancers affecting the digestive system
Compassionate, patient-centered support throughout every stage of care
National guideline-based treatment recommendations and planning
Coordination with surgery, chemotherapy and additional specialists when needed

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