Gastrointestinal/Stomach Cancer
Gastrointestinal/stomach cancer is a term used to describe tumors that start in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract and the stomach. Adenocarcinomas are the most common form of stomach cancer. This kind of cancer starts from cells in the mucosa, which is the lining of the inner layer of the stomach.
People who are diagnosed with stomach cancer rarely experience symptoms in the early stages of the disease, which is why stomach cancer can be so difficult to detect early. However, some symptoms include stomach pain, feeling bloated or full, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.
Diagnosing gastrointestinal/stomach cancer tests may include physical exams, GI series, upper endoscopy, CT scan, MRI, and other laboratory tests.
As with other cancers, the main treatments for stomach cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Often doctors will decide that the best approach involves using two or more of these treatment methods.
The links below will take you to Web sites to which Cancer.com's Privacy Policy does not apply. We encourage you to read the Privacy Policy of every Web site you visit. This key indicates additional features each site may offer:
Penn State Gastroenterology 
Provides information about the diagnosis, medical management, and endoscopic treatment of diseases affecting the digestive system and liver.
OncoLink – Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Detailed question-and-answer page from the Abramson Cancer Center addresses common concerns about gastrointestinal and stomach cancer. Also features links to ask experts, clinical trials, treatment options, and decision making.
The Caring for Carcinoid Foundation
Nonprofit organization dedicated to research, support, and networking to organize local group fundraising activities.
Duodenal Cancer.com 
Personal tribute site devoted to helping patients connect and find support for this rare type of cancer.
Mayo Clinic
Not-for-profit hospital offers an introduction for those newly diagnosed with cancer; includes step-by-step information about signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, and screening techniques.
Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center
Extensive information on the Dana-Farber center, as well as general information for the newly diagnosed.
National Cancer Institute 
Government resources for the latest information on clinical trials, tips on prevention, helpful tools for screening and testing, plus up-to-date statistics and research.
Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center ― James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
Details on support groups and classes available at the center. Also gives links to other cancer information Web sites.
