Esophageal tumors are almost always malignant, accounting for 6% of all gastrointestinal cancers and 1% of all new cancers, and their incidence is rising at an alarming rate. It is more common in persons over 60 years of age, and it is the seventh leading cause of death among men.

Gastric cancer, one of the most common cancers worldwide, is more prevalent in developing countries among lower socioeconomic groups in urban settings. Japan, China, South America, and Eastern Europe have a high incidence, whereas the United States and Canada have a low incidence, approximately 1-2% of all new cancer cases annually. Immigrants acquire the same risk as natives, pointing to environmental factors in its development. Cancers in the antrum and body have been declining, whereas those of the cardia and gastroesophageal junction are increasing at an alarming rate. Causes are thought to be chronic Helicobacter pylori infection, genetic predisposition, and diet, especially diets with foods high in nitrates (bacon or hot dogs) and smoked, salted, or pickled foods. Other considered causes for gastric cancer include smoking and alcohol abuse.

Adenocarcinoma, also called colorectal cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States and the most common type of cancer of the large bowel. Since the promotion of early detection, 5-year survival rates have risen to 60% but are much lower for low income groups, especially African-American males.