Cancer in the stomach, also known as gastric cancer, is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide. While it is less prevalent in the United States than in other parts of the world, it is still a significant health concern.

Gastric cancer often goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage, making it difficult to treat. As with most forms of cancer, early detection is key in improving a patient’s chances of survival. In this article, we will explore the risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for gastric cancer.

What is Gastric Cancer?

Gastric cancer is the result of the abnormal growth of cells that line the stomach wall. There are several types of gastric cancer, but the most common is adenocarcinoma.

This type of cancer begins in the glandular cells that produce stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Over time, the cancer cells can grow and spread to other parts of the body such as the liver, pancreas, and lungs.”.

Risk Factors for Gastric Cancer

There are several factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing gastric cancer. Some of the most common risk factors include:.

Age: The risk of developing gastric cancer increases as a person gets older.
Gastrointestinal Conditions: People who have a history of gastric ulcers or inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis) are at an increased risk of developing gastric cancer.
Family History: Individuals who have a family history of gastric cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
Diet: A diet that is high in salted, smoked, or pickled foods may increase a person’s risk of developing gastric cancer.
Tobacco and Alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol use can increase a person’s risk of developing gastric cancer.
Obesity: Studies have shown that obesity may increase a person’s risk of developing gastric cancer.

Symptoms of Gastric Cancer

Unfortunately, gastric cancer often does not show any symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Some common symptoms of gastric cancer include:.

Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Pain in the abdomen that does not go away may be a symptom of gastric cancer.
Indigestion: Indigestion that does not improve with medication or diet changes may be a sign of gastric cancer.
Nausea and Vomiting: Constant nausea, vomiting, or a feeling of fullness after eating small meals could indicate gastric cancer.
Blood in the Stool: Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools could be a symptom of gastric cancer.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss coupled with any of the above symptoms can also be a sign of gastric cancer.

Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer

If a person experiences any of the above symptoms, a doctor may order tests to diagnose gastric cancer. These tests may include:.

Endoscopy: During an endoscopy, a long, thin tube is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach to look for abnormalities. If anything suspicious is found, a biopsy can be taken to confirm the presence of cancer.
Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can be used to look for tumors in the stomach.
Blood Tests: While there is no specific blood test for gastric cancer, certain markers in the blood can sometimes indicate the presence of cancer.

Treatment Options for Gastric Cancer

If diagnosed with gastric cancer, treatment options will depend on the stage and location of the cancer. Some treatment options include:.

Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove the tumor and a portion of the surrounding tissue. Depending on the stage of the cancer and its location, the entire stomach may need to be removed.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells and are often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy and surgery.

Preventing Gastric Cancer

While some risk factors such as genetics and age cannot be changed, there are some steps individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing gastric cancer. These include:.

Eating a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of developing gastric cancer.
Limiting Alcohol: People who consume alcohol should limit their intake to reduce their risk of developing gastric cancer.
Stopping Smoking: Quitting smoking can significantly reduce a person’s risk of developing gastric cancer.
Treating Acid Reflux: Long-term acid reflux can damage the lining of the stomach and increase the risk of developing gastric cancer. Treating reflux early can help reduce the risk.

Conclusion

Gastric cancer is a serious and often silent disease. While it is not as common in the United States as in other parts of the world, it is still a significant health concern.

Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for gastric cancer is crucial in improving survival rates. If you experience any symptoms of gastric cancer, it is important to see a doctor right away to get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible.