New Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk-Assessment Program Launched by Loyola

Access to a new multidisciplinary program at Loyola University Health System may be helpful for patients having an increased risk of being affected by gastrointestinal cancer. The Loyola University Medical Center Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk Assessment Program is designed for patients with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer and other related GI cancers. In this program, gastroenterologists, surgeons, genetic counselors and various other specialties collaborate to provide state-of-the-art care for these patients.

"The Loyola program promotes early, targeted intervention which improves treatment options and reduces morbidity and mortality for our patients," says Omar Khan, MD, assistant professor of medicine, division of Gastroenterology & Nutrition and co-director of the new program. "Screening and follow-up are consolidated and simplified, reducing multiple clinic visits. We promote research of rare and complex disorders through our voluntary registry and, while partnering with support groups, improve education and communication with patients, families and providers who care for them."