Gastrointestinal Cancer

The prevalence of primary malignant tumors in the gastrointestinal tract is significant, accounting for 23% of invasive cancers and 24% of cancer-related deaths in 1988. In the U.S., an estimated 227,500 new cases are expected, with various cancers affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and pancreas. Early signs often include gastrointestinal bleeding, and risk factors encompass personal or family histories of cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, dietary habits, particularly high-fat and low-fiber diets, may contribute to increased risk.