Stomach Cancer: Early Detection and Prevention

Oncology | by CMRI | Published on 05/09/2024

Do you often brush off your persistent indigestion as a minor inconvenience? If this is the case, you should be aware that these seemingly common symptoms are the initial indications of stomach cancer, a condition that affects thousands of people annually and typically grows silently until it reaches a more severe stage. As per NCBI study, in 2020, stomach cancer accounted for almost 1.1 million new cases across the globe, ranking among the most common cancers in terms of both prevalence and fatality. Approximately 800,000 deaths were linked to the condition in the same year. 

The illness is complicated and develops gradually, and its initial symptoms are often confused with less severe conditions like ulcers or acid reflux. Which is why it's so important to identify the disease's warning indicators and comprehend the risk factors.

In this blog, we will discuss stomach cancer symptoms, causes, and available treatments. It will also provide information and support for people who may be at risk or who are helping someone who is suffering from this illness. However, please note that this is research-based information and does not replace the relevance of a doctor’s consultation for more book an appointment with best oncologists in kolkata,CMRI. 

What is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer also referred to as gastric cancer is one of the cancers that starts in the stomach's lining cells. As an essential component of the digestive system, the stomach breaks down food and absorbs nutrients. Stomach cancer can result from abnormal cells that develop uncontrollably and create a tumour in the stomach. If not detected and treated promptly, this condition may spread to other body parts.

What Are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?

It's important to keep in mind that illnesses other than stomach cancer might lead to the signs of the disease. However, you must get medical attention if you or a loved one is exhibiting any of the following symptoms. In its early stages, stomach cancer symptoms might be mild, making diagnosis challenging. 

Typical signs and symptoms include:

• Persistent heartburn or dyspepsia
• Unexpected weight reduction
• Appetite decline
• Vomiting or nausea, occasionally with blood
• Discomfort or pain in the abdomen
• Feeling full after consuming small portions of food 
• Weakness or exhaustion
• Stools that are dark or contain blood

What Are the Causes of Stomach Cancer?

The exact cause of stomach cancer is not always known, several factors can raise one's chance of contracting the illness. Among these are:

• Genetic predisposition
• Smoking
• Chronic Inflammation
• Diet
• Infections

What Are the Risks and Complications of Stomach Cancer?

Several complications may arise from stomach cancer, particularly if it is not treated right once. Among these difficulties are:

• Metastasis: The malignancy may extend to lymph nodes, the liver, or the lungs, among other organs.
• Obstruction: Digestion may become difficult if the tumour blocks the stomach or intestines.
• Malnutrition: As the illness worsens, it may obstruct the body's ability to absorb nutrients, resulting in severe weight loss and weakness.
• Bleeding: Severe anaemia and other dangerous complications might result from bleeding caused by advanced stomach cancer. 

How is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed?

If symptoms don't go away, it's critical to see a doctor because early discovery is the key to successful treatment. Tests and procedures are commonly used to diagnose stomach cancer which include:

• Endoscopy: A tiny, flexible tube fitted with a camera is put through the mouth to look at the lining of the stomach.
• Biopsy: A tiny tissue sample may be removed during an endoscopy to be examined under a microscope.
• Imaging tests: Finding out the size of the cancer and if it has spread can be aided by imaging tests such as CT, MRI, and X-rays.
• Blood tests: These are useful in identifying cancer signs and assessing general health.

What Are the Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer?

A customised treatment plan with the highest probability of success will be developed by a multidisciplinary team of experts. The course of treatment for stomach cancer is determined by the disease's stage and the general health of the patient. Typical treatment options consist of:

• Surgery: Gastrectomy, or the removal of all or part of the stomach, is frequently necessary, particularly in cases with early-stage cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to either eradicate or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be applied before or following surgery.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used in radiation treatment to target and destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are frequently used in tandem.
• Targeted therapy: These medications selectively attack cancer cells while sparing healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy: To combat cancer, this treatment strengthens the body's immune system.

What Are the Prevention Tips for Stomach Cancer?

Although it's not always possible to avoid stomach cancer, there are things you can do to lower your risk:

• Healthy diet: Limit salty, smoked, and pickled foods and consume a diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Stay away from smoking: Giving up smoking lowers the chance of stomach cancer as well as many other cancers.
• Limit your alcohol intake: Drinking too much alcohol can raise your chance of stomach cancer.
• Treat H. pylori infection: Treatment can lower your risk of stomach cancer if you have a known H. pylori infection.
• Frequent screenings: Discuss routine screenings with your doctor if you have a family history of stomach cancer or other risk factors. 

Conclusion 

Dealing with stomach cancer might be difficult, but there is hope because of recent developments in medical care. Preventive measures such as regular check-ups, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding identified risk factors can help lower the chance of contracting this illness. While fighting stomach cancer can be an emotionally and physically taxing experience, family and medical team support is crucial. 

FAQs 

Is gastric cancer curable?

It is possible to treat stomach cancer, particularly if caught early. Radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery are available as treatments. The patient's general health and the cancer stage at diagnosis determine the prognosis, with early intervention providing the greatest results. 

Is gastric cancer hereditary?

In rare instances, stomach cancer may run in families. The risk may be raised by certain genetic diseases such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) or by a family history of gastric cancer. For those with a family history, routine testing and genetic counselling are advised. 

Can stomach ulcers cause cancer?

Cancer is not directly caused by stomach ulcers. On the other hand, long-term inflammation or chronic ulcers brought on by an H. pylori infection may raise the risk of stomach cancer. This risk can be lowered by treating H. pylori infection.

Can ultrasound detect stomach cancer?

Stomach cancer is not usually detected by ultrasound. Although endoscopy, CT scans, and biopsies are more useful in the diagnosis of stomach cancer, they can still be useful in evaluating the abdominal organs. To assess metastases or associated problems, ultrasound might be utilised.