Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the stomach. It is a relatively uncommon cancer, but it can be aggressive and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Here are some key points about stomach cancer:

  • Types of Stomach Cancer:
    • Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, accounting for the majority of stomach cancer cases. It begins in the cells lining the innermost layer of the stomach.
    • Lymphoma: This type of stomach cancer begins in the immune system cells of the stomach lining.
    • Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): A rare type of stomach cancer that begins in the cells of the stomach wall.
    • Carcinoid tumors: These tumors are rare and begin in the hormone-producing cells of the stomach.
  • Risk Factors:
    • Infection with Helicobacter pylori: This bacterium is a major risk factor for stomach cancer and is also linked to peptic ulcers.
    • Age: Stomach cancer is more common in older adults.
    • Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop stomach cancer.
    • Tobacco and alcohol use: Both smoking and heavy alcohol consumption increase the risk.
    • Diet: A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salted foods, and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to the risk.
    • Family history: Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer may have an increased risk.
    • Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as pernicious anemia, atrophic gastritis, and certain inherited syndromes may increase the risk.
  • Signs and Symptoms:
    • Early-stage stomach cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms.
    • Symptoms may include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, nausea, and vomiting.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (CT scans, PET scans), and endoscopic procedures (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD).
    • Biopsy samples are taken during endoscopy to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its type.
  • Staging:
    • Staging helps determine the extent of the cancer and guides treatment decisions.
  • Treatment Options:
    • Surgery: Surgical removal of the cancerous portion of the stomach (partial gastrectomy) or the entire stomach (total gastrectomy) is a common treatment.
    • Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
    • Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
    • Targeted therapy: Medications that specifically target certain proteins involved in cancer growth.
    • Immunotherapy: Treatment that stimulates or enhances the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
  • Survival Rates:
    • Prognosis varies based on factors such as the type of stomach cancer, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment.
    • Stomach cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which can impact survival rates.
  • Challenges in Treatment:
    • Stomach cancer treatment can be challenging due to the potential impact on digestion and nutritional intake.
    • Early detection is crucial for better treatment outcomes.
  • Prevention:
    • Treating Helicobacter pylori infection when present.
    • Adopting a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables.
    • Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol consumption.