> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.apex-ai.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.apex-ai.ai/business-overview/quickstart.md).

# Global Threat of GI Cancers

Gastrointestinal cancers, particularly **stomach and colorectal cancer**, are on the rise worldwide. Early-stage cancers often remain asymptomatic for years, leading to delayed diagnoses and poor patient outcomes. The need for **AI-powered early detection and continuous monitoring systems** has never been greater.

#### **Key Risk Factors Driving Cancer Growth**

* Helicobacter pylori infection increases the risk of stomach cancer by 2 to 6 times.
* Chronic gastric inflammation leads to a 6-fold increase in atrophic gastritis, progressing to 10-20 times higher cancer risk.
* Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, significantly raises the risk of colorectal cancer (up to 7 times higher in severe cases).
* 80-85% of colorectal cancer cases originate from precancerous polyps, making early detection critical.

#### **Gastrointestinal Cancer Statistics**

**United States**

* **Colorectal cancer (15.7%)** is the **second leading cause of cancer-related deaths** in the U.S.
* **Stomach cancer (4%)** is a growing concern, though less common than colorectal cancer.
* Digestive cancers make up **19.7%** of all cancer cases in the U.S., ranking **third** among cancer categories.\
  \&#xNAN;*(Source: 2022 American Cancer Society)*

**Global Trends**

* **Colorectal cancer (9.6%)** is among the **top 3 most common cancers worldwide**.
* **Stomach cancer (4.9%)** is prevalent in high-risk regions like **East Asia, Europe, and Latin America**.
* Digestive cancers account for **14.5%** of all cancer cases globally, making them the **#1 category** of cancer incidence worldwide.\
  \&#xNAN;*(Source: 2024 WHO Report)*


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