Gastrointestinal cancer care
Comprehensive care for all GI cancers
At Penn Medicine, our GI cancer specialists come together to care for you—in mind, body, and spirit.
From prevention, early detection, and diagnosis through treatment and recovery, you’re in the hands of a strong team of GI medical oncologists, nurse navigators, radiation oncologists, surgeons, gastroenterologists, primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and therapists focused on giving you the care you need.
What is gastrointestinal cancer?
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect the digestive system. The digestive system, also known as the GI tract, is a continuous tube that stretches from the mouth to the anus. It plays a crucial role in digesting and absorbing nutrients from food, as well as eliminating waste products from the body.
GI cancers can form in the esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, small intestine, colon, rectum, and anus.
Gastrointestinal cancers we treat
Gastrointestinal Cancer Genetics Program
Our cancer genetics experts have developed a specialized program to support individuals and families affected by or at risk of hereditary gastrointestinal cancer or colon polyps. We provide advanced cancer risk evaluation, genetic counseling, genetic testing, and comprehensive medical care through our expert clinical team. The Gastrointestinal Cancer Genetics Program offers the following services.
Our specialists provide individuals with an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal polyps or cancer based on personal or family history with the following services:
- A comprehensive evaluation of their personal and family medical history
- A discussion of genetic testing options
- Genetic testing (if applicable)
- A plan for managing cancer risk
Our physician specialists and genetic counselors provide individualized care for people who have been diagnosed with hereditary gastrointestinal cancer or polyposis syndrome. Often collaborating with other specialists at Penn Medicine—including colorectal surgeons and medical oncologists—we work together to give you the best outcome.
Our genetic specialists have designed cancer risk management programs to provide medical care and proactive health management for individuals and families with the following conditions:
Neuroendocrine cancer expertise
Neuroendocrine tumors, which are found in the GI tract, look like GI cancers but are managed differently. Our care team has extensive experience treating these hormone-producing tumors.
GI cancer treatment options at Penn Medicine
Gastrointestinal cancer treatment requires extensive medical expertise and teamwork. Our dedicated team of doctors and support professionals focuses solely on caring for these complex cancers. We understand the intricacies of therapy decisions and collaborate closely to customize a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Cancer care at Penn Medicine
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.
Related articles
New KIR-CAR T cell therapy shows promise in solid cancers
An early report of a new type of CAR T cell therapy, called KIR-CAR, was shared in a Clinical Trial Plenary session at the AACR Annual Meeting 2026.
New strategy targets pancreatic cancer before it forms
A new preclinical study in mice shows that precancerous cells in the pancreas can be eliminated before they have the chance to become tumors.
Patient stories
A bond of trust, a path to healing
Patti Lyons, the owner of Peace Valley Lavender Farm, was diagnosed with rectal cancer five years ago. Today, she is sharing her story of healing.
Cancer survivor: Learning I had Lynch syndrome ‘saved my life’
Dennis Massimo was only 42 and symptom-free when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer related to an inherited condition he didn’t realize he had.