Stomach Cancer - Treatments, Symptoms, Causes
What is Stomach cancer? What are the causes, and how to treat it?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the stomach. It is the fifth most common cancer in the world, with approximately 1 million new cases diagnosed each year. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of stomach cancer.
Causes of Stomach Cancer
The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, but several factors can increase a person's risk of developing the disease. These include:
- Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium is commonly found in the stomach and is a leading cause of stomach ulcers. Over time, an H. pylori infection can lead to inflammation and damage the stomach lining, increasing the risk of stomach cancer.
- Diet: A diet high in smoked, salted, or pickled foods and low in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
- Genetics: A family history of stomach cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of many types of cancer, including stomach cancer.
- Age: Stomach cancer is more common in people over 50.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
The symptoms of stomach cancer can vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages, there may be no symptoms at all. As cancer grows, the following symptoms may occur:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Feeling full after eating small amounts of food
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unintentional weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Blood in the stool
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor immediately. Of course, other conditions can also cause these symptoms, but it is essential to rule out stomach cancer as a possible cause.
Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer
If your doctor suspects you have stomach cancer, they will perform a physical exam and may order tests to help diagnose the disease. These may include:
- Endoscopy: A procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the stomach to look for signs of cancer.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the stomach and examined under a microscope to determine if cancer is present.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to determine the size and location of cancer.
Treatment of Stomach Cancer
The treatment of stomach cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health. The main treatments for stomach cancer include:
- Surgery: Surgery aims to remove as much cancer as possible. In some cases, the entire stomach may need to be removed.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of medication that is used to kill cancer cells. It is often given before or after surgery to help shrink the tumor or prevent cancer from coming back.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer treatment that uses drugs to target specific proteins in cancer cells. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery.
In addition to these treatments, patients with stomach cancer may receive supportive care, such as pain management and nutritional support.
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system’s power to fight cancer. The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, and abnormal cells, such as cancer cells.
Prevention of Stomach Cancer
While it is impossible to prevent stomach cancer completely, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing the disease. These include:
- Getting screened for H. pylori infection and treating it if present.
- Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables and reducing your intake of processed and smoked foods.
- Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Regular exercise.
- Limiting alcohol consumption.
- Getting vaccinated against Helicobacter pylori, particularly in areas with a high incidence of infection.
- Regular check-ups and screening, particularly if you have a family history of stomach cancer.
Conclusion
Stomach cancer is a severe disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. However, with early detection and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for stomach cancer patients can improve. If you experience stomach cancer symptoms, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Additionally, adopting healthy lifestyle choices and getting regular check-ups can help reduce your risk of developing stomach cancer.