Learn about stomach cancer causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Discover how early detection and lifestyle changes can improve outcomes.
What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the stomach lining. It’s the fifth most common cancer globally, with higher rates in East Asia, Eastern Europe, and South America. While survival rates improve with early detection, late-stage diagnoses remain challenging.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of stomach cancer:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection:
- This bacterium causes chronic stomach inflammation, leading to cellular damage over time.
- Dietary Habits:
- High consumption of smoked, salted, or pickled foods (linked to nitrates/nitrites).
- Low intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and obesity.
- Genetic Predisposition:
- Family history of stomach cancer or inherited syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, BRCA mutations).
- Other Conditions:
- Chronic gastritis, pernicious anemia, or previous stomach surgery.
Symptoms to Watch For
Stomach cancer symptoms are often vague initially but worsen as the disease progresses:
- Early Signs:
- Persistent indigestion or heartburn.
- Mild nausea, bloating, or loss of appetite.
- Advanced Symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood) or black, tarry stools (melena).
- Severe abdominal pain or fatigue.
When to See a Doctor: Persistent symptoms lasting over 2–3 weeks warrant medical evaluation.
Diagnosis and Staging
- Diagnostic Tests:
- Endoscopy: A camera examines the stomach and collects tissue samples (biopsy).
- Imaging: CT scans, PET scans, or endoscopic ultrasound to check for tumor spread.
- Staging:
- Stage 0–I: Cancer is localized to the stomach lining.
- Stage II–III: Spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues.
- Stage IV: Metastasized to distant organs (e.g., liver, lungs).
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cancer stage, location, and overall health:
- Surgery:
- Partial/Total Gastrectomy: Removal of part or all of the stomach.
- Lymphadenectomy: Removal of affected lymph nodes.
- Chemotherapy and Radiation:
- Shrink tumors pre-surgery (neoadjuvant) or eliminate remaining cells post-surgery (adjuvant).
- Targeted Therapies:
- Trastuzumab: For HER2-positive cancers.
- Ramucirumab: Blocks blood supply to tumors.
- Immunotherapy:
- Pembrolizumab: Effective for tumors with high microsatellite instability (MSI-H).
- Palliative Care:
- Manages pain, nausea, and improves quality of life in advanced cases.
Prevention Strategies
- Diet and Lifestyle:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Avoid processed meats, excessive salt, and smoked foods.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
- Medical Interventions:
- Treat H. pylori infections with antibiotics to reduce cancer risk.
- Regular screenings for high-risk individuals (family history or precancerous conditions).
- Early Detection:
- In high-risk regions like Japan, routine endoscopies help catch cancer early.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
- Early-Stage Detection: 5-year survival rate is ~70% for localized tumors.
- Advanced Stages: Survival drops to ~5–10% due to metastasis.
FAQs
Q: Is stomach cancer hereditary?
A: About 5–10% of cases have genetic links. Genetic testing is recommended for families with a history.
Q: Can diet alone prevent stomach cancer?
A: While diet plays a role, combining healthy eating with avoiding smoking/alcohol and treating H. pylori offers the best protection.
Q: What are the latest advancements in treatment?
A: Immunotherapy (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors) and targeted drugs are showing promise in clinical trials.
Final Thoughts
Stomach cancer’s subtle early symptoms make awareness and proactive healthcare critical. By understanding risk factors, adopting preventive habits, and seeking timely medical care, you can significantly reduce risks or catch the disease early.
Take Action:
- Discuss screening options with your doctor if you have risk factors.
- Report persistent digestive issues promptly.
Sources:
- American Cancer Society
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- National Cancer Institute (NCI)
(Content reviewed for accuracy as of July 2024. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.)
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