Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the stomach lining.
It is a prevalent type of cancer and is the fifth most common cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 1 million new cases and around 780,000 deaths every year. Stomach cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, which is why it is often referred to as an unseen danger.
Causes
There is no single cause of stomach cancer, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. Some of these include:.
- Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
- Family history of stomach cancer
- Smoking tobacco
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- A diet high in salted, smoked, or pickled foods
Symptoms
Stomach cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because the symptoms are similar to those of other digestive conditions. Some of the most common symptoms of stomach cancer include:.
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling full after eating only a small amount
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Diagnosis
Diagnosing stomach cancer can be challenging because the symptoms are similar to those of other digestive conditions. If your doctor suspects you have stomach cancer, they may order several tests to confirm the diagnosis. Some of these tests include:.
- Upper endoscopy
- Biopsy
- CT scan
- X-ray
- Blood tests
Treatment
There are several treatment options available for stomach cancer, and the treatment plan will depend on the stage and location of the cancer. Some of the most common treatment options include:.
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- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer, but certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing the disease. These include:.
- Avoiding salted, smoked, or pickled foods
- Moderating alcohol consumption
- Quitting smoking
- Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Getting tested and treated for H. pylori infection
Prognosis
The prognosis for stomach cancer varies depending on the stage and location of the cancer. If the cancer is caught early, the five-year survival rate is around 90%. However, if the cancer has spread, the five-year survival rate drops to around 5%.
It is important to receive prompt and proper treatment for stomach cancer to improve the chances of a positive outcome.
Conclusion
Stomach cancer is a prevalent type of cancer that can be difficult to detect in its early stages, making it an unseen danger.
It is essential to understand the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for stomach cancer to improve the chances of a positive outcome. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting tested for H. pylori infection, and seeking prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms can all help reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer.
