Stomach Cancer: All You Need to Know
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a significant health concern in India, with varying incidence rates across different regions of the country. Here’s everything you need to know about stomach cancer, from its causes to symptoms, treatment, and prevention tips:
Overview:
Stomach cancer originates as abnormal cell growth in the stomach, an organ located in the upper central region of the belly responsible for digestion. It can affect any area of the stomach, with the major portion often being affected, known as the stomach body. Stomach cancer primarily affects older adults and is slightly more common in men than in women.
Symptoms:
- Often asymptomatic or may present with nonspecific symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, or stomach discomfort.
- Advanced stages may exhibit symptoms such as unintentional weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, difficulty swallowing, blood in the stool, fatigue, and a sense of fullness or bloating after eating small amounts of food.
- In later stages, symptoms may include extreme fatigue, spontaneous weight loss, vomiting blood, and dark stools. Metastatic stomach cancer may cause symptoms specific to the areas it spreads to, such as visible lumps, yellowing of the skin and eyes, or fluid buildup in the abdomen.
Causes:
- Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium is a significant risk factor for stomach cancer.
- Dietary factors: Consuming a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in smoked, salted, or pickled foods may increase the risk.
- Alcohol and tobacco use: The use of these substances is linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer.
- Genetics: Certain inherited genetic diseases, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), can predispose individuals to stomach cancer.
When to Visit a Doctor:
If you experience any concerning signs or symptoms listed above, it’s important to schedule a visit with your doctor or a medical oncologist. Similar symptoms may be caused by other conditions, so your doctor may conduct tests to rule out other possible causes before testing for stomach cancer.
Treatment and Prognosis:
The prognosis for stomach cancer depends on factors like the stage at diagnosis, the extent of spread, and the overall health of the individual. Early-stage stomach cancer generally has a better prognosis. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the cancer stage.
Prevention:
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Treatment of H. pylori infection: Treating this bacterial infection can reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer.
- Regular screening: Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic conditions may benefit from regular screening to detect cancer early.
Conclusion:
For individuals concerned about stomach cancer, consulting medical specialists is crucial for personalized information, diagnosis, and available treatments. Early discovery and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes. Awareness and preventive measures play vital roles in reducing the burden of stomach cancer in India.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
