Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the stomach. It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it can develop slowly and show no symptoms until it has spread to other parts of the body.
In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of stomach cancer.
Causes of Stomach Cancer
The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, but there are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing the disease. These factors include:.
- Age: Stomach cancer is more common in people over the age of 50
- Gender: Men are twice as likely to develop stomach cancer as women
- Diet: A diet high in salty and smoked foods, pickled vegetables, and low in fruits and vegetables can increase your risk
- Infections: A bacterial infection called Helicobacter pylori can increase your risk
- Family history: If someone in your family has had stomach cancer, you may be at a higher risk
- Smoking and alcohol: Both smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can increase your risk
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer can be difficult to diagnose because it often doesn’t show any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows and spreads, you may experience the following:.
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Pain or discomfort in the abdomen
- Bloating or feeling full after eating
- Feeling tired or weak
- Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
Diagnosing Stomach Cancer
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of stomach cancer, your doctor will likely recommend some tests to determine if you have the disease. These tests may include:.
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- Physical exam and medical history
- Blood tests
- Endoscopy, where a small camera is inserted through your mouth and into your stomach to look for abnormalities
- Biopsy, where a small piece of tissue is removed from your stomach for testing
- Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI, to see if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body
Treatment for Stomach Cancer
The treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences. Treatment options may include:.
- Surgery: If the cancer is in its early stage, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the cancerous tissue. In some cases, the entire stomach may need to be removed.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment if the cancer has spread.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy, or as a primary treatment for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy drugs work by targeting specific molecules in cancer cells to stop their growth. They may be used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Preventing Stomach Cancer
While there is no surefire way to prevent stomach cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These steps include:.
- Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in processed and pickled foods
- Not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
- Getting screened for Helicobacter pylori infections
- Getting regular check-ups with your doctor and discussing your family history of cancer
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection is key to successfully treating stomach cancer. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to talk to your doctor. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better your chances of survival.
In Conclusion
Stomach cancer is a serious disease that can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
If you are at risk for stomach cancer, it is important to take steps to reduce your risk, such as eating a healthy diet, not smoking or drinking too much alcohol, and getting screened for infections. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of stomach cancer, talk to your doctor right away. The earlier stomach cancer is detected, the better your chances of successfully treating the disease.
