Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the cells lining the stomach. It is estimated that around 27,600 new cases of stomach cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States alone.

While stomach cancer can be a deadly disease, early detection can greatly increase the chances of survival. In this article, we will take a closer look at the importance of early detection in stomach cancer survival.

What is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer begins when the cells lining the stomach start to grow abnormally. Over time, these abnormal cells can form a tumor that can spread to other parts of the body.

There are several types of stomach cancer, including:.

Adenocarcinoma – the most common type of stomach cancer, accounting for around 90% of all cases
Lymphoma – a rare type of stomach cancer that begins in immune system cells
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) – a rare type of stomach cancer that begins in the cells that make up the wall of the stomach
Carcinoid tumor – a rare type of stomach cancer that begins in hormone-producing cells in the stomach

What are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows, symptoms may include:.

Indigestion or heartburn
Feeling full after eating a small meal
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating and stomach pain
Difficulty swallowing
Weight loss

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

Why is Early Detection Important?

As with many types of cancer, the earlier stomach cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival.

When stomach cancer is detected early, before it has spread to other parts of the body, it is easier to treat and the chances of a successful outcome are much higher.

If stomach cancer is not detected until it has spread, or metastasized, to other parts of the body, it is much more difficult to treat. Advanced stomach cancer can be incredibly aggressive and can limit treatment options.

How is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed?

There are several tests that your doctor may use to diagnose stomach cancer, including:.

Physical exam – your doctor will examine your abdomen for any lumps or swelling and may order blood tests to look for signs of cancer
Endoscopy – a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted through your mouth into your stomach to look for any abnormalities
Biopsy – a small piece of tissue is removed from the stomach during an endoscopy and is analyzed under a microscope to look for cancer cells
Imaging tests – such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI may be used to look for signs of cancer in other parts of the body

How is Stomach Cancer Treated?

There are several treatment options for stomach cancer, depending on the stage of the cancer and other factors. These may include:.

Surgery – the tumor and some surrounding tissue may be removed through surgery
Chemotherapy – drugs are used to kill cancer cells
Radiation therapy – high-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells
Targeted therapy – drugs that target specific molecules that promote cancer growth may be used

The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual case and should be determined in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

While stomach cancer can be a deadly disease, early detection greatly increases the chances of survival. If you are experiencing any symptoms of stomach cancer, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.

By catching stomach cancer early, it is often easier to treat and the chances of a successful outcome are much higher.