Gastrointestinal Cancers: What You Can Do to Lower Your Risk

A bit of heartburn. Occasional bloating, Changes in digestion. You may dismiss these symptoms, attributing them to stress and ageing. But sometimes, these are early warning signs of something more serious, like gastrointestinal cancers. 



The good news is, many of the risk factors are within your control. In this article, we outline the steps you can take to protect your digestive health proactively.

Gastrointestinal cancers is a group of cancers that affect the digestive system, consisting of the following:

• oesophagus
• stomach
• liver
• pancreas
• small intestine
• colon
• rectum
• anus

These cancers develop slowly over time and often do not show symptoms until they are in advanced stages. Early detection, however, can improve treatment outcomes, making prevention and regular screening essential.

Understanding what increases your risk of GI cancer is the first step toward prevention. Risk factors can be broadly grouped into the following.

Certain habits and behaviours can increase your risk. A diet full of red and processed meats, an inactive lifestyle, smoking, and high consumption of alcohol are all linked to various types of gastrointestinal cancers. These factors not only affect your digestive system but also impact your overall health.

Some medical conditions, especially those involving chronic inflammation or irritation of the digestive tract, can increase cancer risk. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and chronic infections in the stomach must be managed effectively.

A family history of colorectal or other GI cancers may point to inherited genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis. If a close relative has been diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers, your own risk may be higher, and earlier or more frequent screenings could be recommended.

GI cancers become more common with age, usually affecting individuals over 50. Some types of GI cancers are also more prevalent in one gender. For example, men are at a slightly higher risk for colorectal cancer, while women may be more prone to certain forms of stomach cancer. However, both genders are vulnerable and should take preventive steps seriously.

Your diet plays a pivotal role in cancer prevention. Certain foods can help protect your digestive tract, while others may increase your risk.

Fibre: High-fibre foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts support a healthy digestive tract and can reduce your risk of colon cancer.

Antioxidants: Foods brimming with antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and colourful vegetables, help reduce inflammation and combat cell damage.



Healthy bacteria: Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kimchi, and miso may also improve gut health by encouraging beneficial bacteria.

Processed meats: Control your intake of red meat (especially if grilled or charred), processed meats like bacon and sausages, and foods high in saturated fats. These have all been associated with a higher risk of colorectal and stomach cancers.

Preserved foods: Excessive consumption of salty, pickled, and smoked foods can irritate the stomach lining over time.

Drinking at least 2 liters of water supports healthy digestion and aids in preventing constipation, which can contribute to digestive discomfort. Aim for about 8 cups a day, and adjust according to your activity level.

A healthy digestive system thrives on more than just good food. Daily habits are significant to keeping your risk low.

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, supports digestion, and reduces inflammation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Even daily walks can make a meaningful difference.

Obesity can increase the risk of several types of gastrointestinal cancer, including colorectal, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Shedding even a small amount of weight can help keep inflammation under control and lower your cancer risk.

Tobacco use is a well-known risk factor for cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, and colon. If you smoke, seek support to quit as soon as possible.

Similarly, limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day for women and two for men, as excessive alcohol can irritate the digestive tract and increase cancer risk.

Screenings can detect cancer early, sometimes even before symptoms appear. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following screening tests:

A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for detecting colorectal cancer in its earliest stages.

• Recommended starting at age 50 for average-risk individuals, or 40, if there's a family history
• Allows for the detection and removal of precancerous polyps during the same procedure
• Repeated every 10 years if no abnormalities are found
  

Also known as an upper endoscopy, gastroscopy helps doctors examine the oesophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.

• Used to detect stomach and oesophageal cancers, ulcers, or other upper GI conditions
• Especially important for those with persistent acid reflux, chronic indigestion, or a family history of gastric cancer
  

Depending on your symptoms and risk profile, your doctor may also recommend additional screenings, such as:

• Faecal immunochemical test (FIT) – A stool test that detects hidden blood, which may indicate colorectal cancer
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) – A less invasive option that uses imaging to screen for polyps. Its accuracy is less than the gold standard of colonoscopy and a major disadvantage is that biopsies or removal of polyps when identified cannot be performed

Regular screening can prevent and catch gastrointestinal cancers early. Speak with your gastrointestinal specialist about which tests are right for you and how often you should get them.

Chronic digestive issues shouldn't be ignored. Conditions such as GERD, gastritis, or irritable bowel syndrome may seem harmless. Still, if left unmanaged, they can lead to long-term damage or complicate the early detection of more serious problems.



Work with your doctor to manage these conditions effectively and monitor any changes over time.

While GI cancers can be silent in their early stages, some signs should not be ignored. These include:

• persistent abdominal pain
• unexplained weight loss
• changes in bowel habits
• blood in the stool
• difficulty swallowing
• a feeling of fullness even after small meals.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

Preventing gastrointestinal cancers starts with informed, proactive steps. Eat well, be active regularly and don't ignore digestive discomfort. Your health is your responsibility and your greatest asset.

If you are due for a screening or have risk factors that need closer attention, consider Colorectal Clinic Associates. Our experienced gastrointestinal specialists offer personalised screening plans and compassionate care to help you stay ahead of serious conditions.

Schedule an appointment with us today.