In India, stomach cancer is a major threat to health that is disproportionately prevalent in the nation. The incidence of stomach cancer varies across different regions of India, with higher rates reported in certain states.
Gastric cancer, another name for stomach cancer, is a type of cancer that begins as a cell growth in the stomach. Located directly below the ribs in the upper central region of the belly is the stomach. The stomach assists in the digestion and breakdown of meals. Every area of the stomach is susceptible to stomach cancer. Stomach cancers often affect the major portion of the stomach in most of the world and are called the stomach body.
Stomach cancer is more common in older adults and is slightly more prevalent in men than in women. The symptoms of stomach cancer are:
often asymptomatic or may present with nonspecific symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, or stomach discomfort.
in advanced stages unintentional weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, difficulty swallowing, blood in the stool, fatigue, and a sense of fullness or bloating after eating small amounts of food could be seen.
It is possible for symptoms to wait until the cancer has progressed. Symptoms of stomach cancer in its latter stages include extreme fatigue, spontaneous weight loss, vomiting blood, and dark stools.
There could be metastatic stomach cancer that has migrated to other areas of the body. It develops symptoms unique to the area it spreads to. For instance, lumps that are visible through the skin may develop if cancer progresses to the lymph nodes. The skin and the whites of the eyes may turn yellow if liver cancer develops. The belly may fill with fluid if the cancer spreads inside the abdomen. The abdomen may appear enlarged.
Causes of stomach cancer could be:
Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium is a major risk factor for stomach cancer.
Dietary factors: Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in items that have been smoked, salted, or pickled may raise the risk.
Use of alcohol and tobacco products is linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer.
Genetics: People may be more susceptible to stomach cancer if they have certain inherited genetic diseases, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC).
When to visit a doctor
“If you have any concerns about any of the mentioned signs and symptoms, make an appointment with your physician or a medical oncologist. Numerous disorders might cause symptoms that are similar to those of stomach cancer. Your doctor may perform tests for those other potential causes before testing for stomach cancer” informed Dr. Manish Sharma.
Treatment and prognosis
The prognosis for stomach cancer depends on various factors, including the stage at diagnosis, the extent of spread, and the overall health of the individual. Generally, stomach cancer diagnosed at an early stage has a better prognosis than cancer that has spread extensively. Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or a radiation therapy could be treatment given based on the stages of cancer.
Prevention of stomach cancer
Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, and follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Treatment of H. pylori infection: Treating this bacterial infection can reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer.
Regular screening: Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic conditions may benefit from regular screening to detect cancer at an early stage.
It’s important that anyone with concerns about stomach cancer consults with medical professionals for specific information, a diagnosis, and information on potential therapies. Early detection and prompt treatment can significantly enhance outcomes.
The author is a Sr. Medical Oncologist at Action Cancer Hospital New Delhi and Sr. Oncologist at Cancer Care Clinic in Faridabad.