This book provides readers with updated health information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, appendix, gall bladder, liver, and pancreas. It also describes how the gastrointestinal tract can be affected by food intolerances, infectious diseases, and various cancers. The structure and function of the digestive system, common diagnostic methods, medical treatments, surgical procedures, and current research initiatives are described. The book concludes with a glossary of related terms and directory of resources for further help and information.