Gastrointestinal Cancers
Gastrointestinal Cancer refers to malignant conditions of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) and accessory organs of digestion, including the esophagus, stomach, biliary system, pancreas, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus.
Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, is a fairly uncommon type of cancer. Around 7,000 people are diagnosed with it each year in the UK.
The initial symptoms of stomach cancer are vague and easy to mistake for other less serious conditions. They include:
- Persistent indigestion and heartburn
- Trapped wind and frequent burping
- Feeling very full or bloated after meals
- Persistent stomach pain
Symptoms of advanced stomach cancer can include:
- Blood in your stools, or black stools
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
As the early symptoms of stomach cancer are similar to those of many other conditions, the cancer is often advanced by the time it’s diagnosed. It’s therefore important to get any possible symptoms of stomach cancer checked by your GP as soon as possible. Do not wait to be seen.
Oesophageal Cancer
Oesophageal cancer doesn’t usually have any symptoms at first. But as the cancer grows, it can cause a number of different symptoms, the most common being swallowing problems.
The cancer can narrow the oesophagus, making it difficult for food to pass down. It may feel as though food is getting stuck and sometimes swallowing may be uncomfortable or painful.
You may have to chew your food more thoroughly, or you can only eat soft foods. As the cancerous tumour increases in size, even liquids may become difficult to swallow.
Other symptoms of oesophageal cancer can include:
- Persistent indigestion or heartburn
- Bringing up food soon after eating
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Persistent vomiting pain or discomfort in your upper tummy, chest or back
- A persistent cough
- Hoarseness
- Tiredness, shortness of breath and pale skin
- Vomiting blood or coughing up blood - although this is uncommon It is important to seek medical advice if the following symptoms also occur
- Swallowing difficulties
- Heartburn on most days for three weeks or more
- Any other unusual or persistent symptoms.
These symptoms can be caused by a number of conditions and in many cases won’t be caused by cancer – but it’s a good idea to get them checked out.
How can I access Kingsbridge Cancer Diagnostics Clinic and what is the pathway?
Accessing Kingsbridge Diagnostics Clinic couldn't be easier. Our step by step guide below explains the pathway from initial point of contact to an onward referral if required:
Why Use Our Cancer Diagnostics Clinic?
- 30 minute appointment with our GP
- Onsite access to over 400 consultant specialties
- Rapid access to MRI, CT, X-Ray, Endoscopy and Ultrasound
- Scans and diagnostics may be covered by private health insurance
- Our GP's and Consultants follow the approved NICE guidelines when making any diagnosis
Don't wait or suffer in silence. If you would like to make an appointment to discuss any of the above with one of our GPs or Consultant Specialists in this area please follow the options below.
Please note our cancer diagnostic service initially requires a GP appointment and this is priced at £149 for a 30 minute face to face appointment. Should you be referred for additional tests, screening or scans then additional costs will be incurred. You will be advised of these costs prior to any further appointments being made.
If you would like to book an appointment or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact our Patient Booking Team using either option below
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