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Upper gastrointestinal cancer
Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers include cancer of the oesophagus, stomach, small bowel, pancreas, liver or biliary system. We provide expert diagnosis, treatment and care for all types of upper GI cancer
Types of upper GI cancer
Oesophageal cancer
Oesophageal cancer is cancer of the gullet, the tube that connects the stomach to the mouth. There are two main types: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Stomach cancer
About 95 per cent of stomach cancers are adenocarcinoma, meaning they start in the glands of the stomach lining. We’re able to provide specialist care for all stomach cancers.
Pancreatic cancer
The pancreas is part of the digestive system and sits in the upper part of the abdomen. There are various types of pancreatic cancer, the most common being ductal adenocarcinoma.
Gallbladder cancer
Gallbladder cancer is a rare form of upper GI cancer that most commonly occurs in people over 70.
Need to know
During your consultation, your consultant will discuss any symptoms you are experiencing and advise on the most appropriate diagnostic tests. Symptoms will vary depending on the type of cancer you have but common symptoms of upper GI cancers may include:
- unexplained weight loss
- loss of appetite
- difficulty swallowing
- abdominal pain
- changes in bowel habits
It is important to remember that these symptoms can be related to other health conditions but it is important to rule out cancer quickly.
There are a number of different tests used to diagnose upper GI cancers. Your consultant will advise you on the most appropriate tests, which may include:
- MRI scan
- PET-CT scan
- EUS (endoscopic ultrasound)
- ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography)
- Biopsy
If you are diagnosed with a form of upper GI cancer, your consultant will discuss your treatment options with you. At HCA UK you will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team, including expert consultants, Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), allied health professionals and other cancer specialists. This team will work together to create a treatment plan tailored to your medical needs.
The treatments we offer for upper GI cancers include:
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy
- surgery
Our locations
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
University College Hospital Private Care
Grafton Way Building, 1 Grafton Way WC1E 6AG London
Private Care at Guy's
London Bridge Hospital Private Care at Guy's SE1 9RT London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.