The Hereditary Gastrointestinal Cancer Registry (HGCR) is a database of individuals and family members who have developed or are at an increased risk of developing GI cancers or hereditary GI syndromes. Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers include cancers of the pancreas, colon, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

When several people in a family develop GI cancers, genetic factors may be responsible. Hereditary cancer syndromes are rare, but these families are at greater risk for developing cancer and can benefit from increased screening and prevention. Many of these genetic factors are not currently understood. The registry's goals include the following:

• Achieve a better understanding of inherited risk factors and disease development for GI syndromes and cancers
• Improve prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment for GI syndromes and cancers
• Serve as a resource for enrolled participants, researchers, and health care providers