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Upper GI Cancer Multidisciplinary Treatment

Icon Endoscopy Dr Alex Craven

What is Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer?

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer refers to cancers that affect the upper section of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel. These cancers are known for their aggressive nature, often requiring prompt, comprehensive care.

 

Effective treatment of upper GI cancers requires a multidisciplinary approach, where a team of specialists collaboratively work to provide the best possible care. In Australia, this approach is particularly vital given the high incidence rates of certain types of upper GI cancers, such as esophageal and gastric cancers, which are frequently diagnosed in advanced stages. A multidisciplinary team (MDT) often includes surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, gastroenterologists, and palliative care experts who, together, create a personalised treatment plan to address the complex needs of each patient.

Upper GI Cancer in Australia

In Australia, cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract have been identified as among the more challenging to diagnose early, largely due to vague symptoms that often appear in advanced stages. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, stomach cancer alone affects over 2,000 Australians annually, with a median age of diagnosis at 70 years. Risk factors can include smoking, a high-salt diet, and infection with Helicobacter pylori. Multidisciplinary care is essential, as it not only improves survival rates but also ensures patients receive comprehensive support at every stage of their journey.

Symptoms

Upper GI cancers may present with symptoms that include:

  • Persistent indigestion or heartburn
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
  • Nausea and vomiting

These symptoms can often mimic other less serious conditions, making timely diagnostic evaluation crucial.

Causes

The exact causes of upper GI cancers can vary by type, but known risk factors include:

  • Chronic infections, such as H. pylori for stomach cancer 
  • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  • Obesity and a diet high in processed or salty foods
  • Genetic predisposition and family history

Diagnostic Tests

To diagnose upper GI cancers, various tests and imaging studies are commonly used:

  • Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted to visualise the esophagus, stomach, or small intestine.
  • Biopsy: Tissue samples are taken during endoscopy for analysis.
  • CT Scan or MRI: Imaging tests that help to assess the spread of cancer.
  • PET Scan: A scan to detect cancer activity in the body.
  • Blood tests: These may include liver function tests and tumour markers for specific cancers.

Complications

If untreated, upper GI cancers can lead to severe complications such as:

  • Obstruction in the digestive tract, making eating and drinking difficult
  • Malnutrition due to difficulty absorbing nutrients
  • Metastasis, or the spread of cancer to other organs
  • Pain and infection if tumours ulcerate or bleed

Treatments

Treatment of upper GI cancers is tailored to the individual and may include:

  • Surgery: To remove tumours or affected sections of the digestive tract.
  • Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy: Often used in combination with surgery or as standalone treatments to shrink tumours or kill cancer cells.
  • Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells, sparing normal cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune response to cancer cells.
  • Palliative Care: Focuses on improving the quality of life, especially in advanced cases.

 

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Craven, please call us on (03) 9852 3777 or email us at info@dralexcraven.com.au.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Survival rates vary significantly by cancer type, stage at diagnosis, and overall patient health. In Australia, early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care can improve outcomes significantly.

Post-treatment, a healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can contribute to a healthier recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Yes, ongoing research in Australia and globally has led to advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapies, which may provide more options for treatment.

Follow-up care schedules vary but typically include regular scans, blood tests, and check-ups to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

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