What Is GIST and How Does It Begin?
GIST stands for gastrointestinal stromal tumor
It is a rare type of cancer that grows in the connective tissue between muscle layers in the digestive tract (also known as the gastrointestinal or GI tract). Even seemingly benign GISTs can become malignant and may spread or grow back after treatment.
Where GIST is found
GISTs most often grow in the stomach and small intestine. Although less common, these tumors can also be found in the colon, rectum, and esophagus.
Where GIST begins
GISTs form in cells called stroma, which are located along the GI tract. Stroma cells are part of the system that signals the body to help move food through the digestive system.
Demographics for GIST: Know the Statistics
How many people get GIST?
Although GIST is a rare cancer, it is estimated that between 4,500 and 6,000 new cases of GIST are diagnosed each year.
Who gets GIST?
The incidence increases with age; the median age of a GIST patient is 60 years. Women are as likely as men to be diagnosed with GIST.
Are there known risk factors?
There are no known environmental risk factors for getting GIST (such as diet, water quality, or environmental toxins).
In rare cases, GISTs have been found in several members within a family. These family members inherited a gene mutation that leads to GIST.
