Gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal cancer ranks among the commonest malignancies worldwide. These cancers can present in a variety of ways within a population; presentation depends on whether population-based screening modalities are available and utilized or whether an individual diagnosis is predicated upon an evaluation of symptoms. This chapter focuses on esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer. It discusses modes of presentation, detection, and treatment for each type. Recovery after treatment for esophageal cancer focuses on detection of recurrence and management of treatment morbidities. Most recurrences are detected within one year of treatment and may present near the primary tumor site or as distant metastases. Recent advances in screening, surgical technique, and adjuvant therapy have improved outcomes and disease-free survival. Continued research toward prevention and treatment is active and ongoing.