What Is Stomach (Gastric) Cancer?
Stomach cancer is a disease where abnormal cells in the stomach multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumour. This tumour can grow and invade nearby tissues, potentially spreading to other body parts. It is a serious condition that can affect anyone but is more common in older individuals and those with certain risk factors. Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes, so awareness of its symptoms and risk factors is essential.
What Causes Stomach Cancer?
While the exact cause of stomach cancer is not fully understood, certain factors can increase the risk. These include a bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori, a diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods, chronic stomach inflammation, smoking, a family history of stomach cancer, and certain genetic conditions.
What Are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?
The symptoms of stomach cancer can vary, and in the early stages, they may be mild or even unnoticeable. As the cancer pr ogresses, the symptoms may become more apparent. Some common symptoms of stomach cancer include:
- Indigestion or Heartburn – Persistent indigestion or heartburn that doesn’t improve with usual remedies may be a sign of stomach cancer.
- Unexplained Weight Loss – Significant and unintentional weight loss without diet or physical activity changes to account for this should be evaluated promptly.
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort – Frequent pain in the abdomen, especially in the upper part, may be a symptom of stomach cancer.
- Nausea and Vomiting – Feeling nauseous or vomiting, particularly after meals, should not be ignored, especially if it becomes chronic.
- Feeling Full After Eating Small Amounts – Experiencing fullness or being unable to eat much, even with small meals, can be a sign of stomach cancer.
- Swelling or Fluid Build-Up – Stomach cancer may lead to fluid accumulation in the abdomen, causing swelling and discomfort.
- Blood in Stool or Vomit – Finding blood in the stool or vomit can be a severe symptom and should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
How Is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing stomach cancer often involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and various tests, such as blood test, computed tomography, endoscopy and biopsy. These tests help doctors determine the presence of cancer, its stage, and its spread to plan for appropriate treatment.
What Are the Complications of Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer can lead to several complications as it advances. These complications can vary depending on the stage and extent of the cancer. Some of the common complications of stomach cancer include:
- Bleeding – As the tumour grows, it can erode the blood vessels in the stomach lining, leading to bleeding. This can result in symptoms such as blood in the stool or black, tarry stools (melena). Severe bleeding may require medical intervention.
- Obstruction – The tumour can obstruct or block the passage of food from the stomach to the intestines. This can cause symptoms like persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and significant weight loss due to reduced food intake.
- Perforation – In advanced stages, the tumour may penetrate the stomach wall, causing a perforation. This can lead to severe abdominal pain, infection, and other potentially life-threatening complications.
- Malnutrition – Individuals may experience difficulties eating and absorbing food nutrients as stomach cancer progresses. This can lead to malnutrition, weakness, and overall decline in health.
- Metastasis – Stomach cancer can spread (metastasise) to other body parts, such as the liver, lungs, bones, or distant lymph nodes. Metastatic cancer is more challenging to treat and can further compromise the patient’s health.
- Ascites – The cancer cells can cause the lining of the abdomen to produce excessive fluid, leading to ascites. This can result in abdominal swelling and discomfort.
- Jaundice – In some cases, stomach cancer may block the bile duct, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This can cause jaundice, characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Can Stomach Cancer Be Prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer, certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk. These include maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding excessive salty and processed foods, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and treating H. pylori infection if diagnosed.
What Are the Medications for Stomach Cancer?
Treatment for stomach cancer may involve various approaches, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Treatment choice depends on the cancer’s stage, size, and overall patient health.
What Are the Surgical Interventions for Stomach Cancer?
Surgery plays a significant role in treating stomach cancer. The exact nature of the surgery, such as partial or total gastrectomy (removal of a portion or the entire stomach), depends on the tumour’s size and location, surgical procedures.
