Getting Diagnosed with Gastrointestinal Cancer

You may feel anxious if you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, liver cancer, pancreas cancer, endocrine cancer or another type of gastrointestinal cancer. Take comfort in the knowledge that we are experts in treating cancers of the digestive system.

The UMass Memorial Health Cancer Center offers personalized, high quality care in patient-focused settings at four convenient locations: UMass Memorial Medical Center, UMass Memorial Health – HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, UMass Memorial Health  – Harrington Hospital, and UMass Memorial Health –  Marlborough Hospital. We work with the UMass Chan Medical School on extensive cancer research and clinical trials, so our patients benefit from the latest diagnostic and treatment options.

Our specialists come together in a single setting to discuss each patient’s diagnosis and develop a thorough treatment plan. This is also known as multidisciplinary care. While malignant (cancerous) tumors can sometimes be aggressive, our patients benefit greatly from our expertise and early input.

In most cases, our team members will be able to meet with you one-on-one during a single appointment. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you with both your physical and emotional needs.

Gastrointestinal Diseases We Treat

• Colorectal cancer
• Pancreatic cancer 
• Appendiceal (appendix) cancer 
• Liver tumors
• Anal cancer
• Esophagus cancer
• Hepatocellular cancer (a type of liver cancer)
• Endocrine (adrenal, pituitary)
• Peritoneal carcinomatosis 
• Bile duct cancer
• Neuroendocrine tumors (cancers that interface between the endocrine, or hormonal, system and the nervous system)
• Cancers of the small intestine
• Stomach/gastric cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancer Services We Provide

• Biopsy (stereo core biopsy, ultrasound-guided biopsy, fine-needle aspiration biopsy)
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery
• Medical oncology
• Genetic testing and counseling
• Cancer support programs