GIST Cancer- What it is and what are its risk factors

GIST Cancer, Cancer Risk Factors

GIST Cancer- What it is and What are its Risk Factors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTS) happen when cells lining your digestive tract grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, creating a mass of tissue called a tumor.

GIST Cancer- what it is and what are its risk factors

What are gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)?

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs) are rare tumors that occur when cells become abnormal and grow out of control. GISTs can start anywhere in your digestive (gastrointestinal) tract, from the esophagus to the anus. More than half start in the stomach, and most others start in the small intestine.

GISTs are uncommon tumors that can grow anywhere in your digestive tract, from the esophagus to the anus. Some GISTs are small and not harmful, while others may be larger or cancerous. While some people may have no symptoms, others may feel unwell or have pain or bleeding.

Risk factors for GIST

Neurofibromatosis
The most substantial risk factor for GIST is the presence of neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromatosis is an autosomal dominant condition caused by a gene on chromosome 17, which is inherited from a parent with the disease (in half of the cases). A parent with neurofibromatosis has a 50/50 chance of having a child with the disease. Neurofibromatosis may also be the result of a new gene change (mutation). Half of neurofibromatosis cases are caused by a new mutation and are not inherited.
Family History
There are rare instances of familial GIST where several family members have the condition.

Learn more about GIST Cancer- its symptoms, treatments and more- here.

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