As for N stage, DAPK1 methylation was positively related to the N stage of GC (positive vs. negative, OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.01–2.06, P = 0.04, fixed effects model), but not that of gastrointestinal cancer, nor EC or CRC (Fig 6). This evidence concerns the gene DAPK1 and colorectal carcinoma.