Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on May 27th, 2023.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a condition that develops when cancer cells form in the inner lining of the stomach. While it usually grows slowly over many years, it's essential to be aware of the symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with this disease.
In the early stages, stomach cancer may cause mild symptoms such as:
Indigestion
Bloating after meals
Heartburn
Slight nausea
Loss of appetite
Early satiety (feeling full quickly)
As the cancer progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, including:
Stomach pain
Black or tarry stools
Vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
Swelling in the stomach
Constipation or diarrhea
Weakness or fatigue
While the exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, several factors can increase your risk, such as:
Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
Chronic inflammation of the stomach (gastritis)
Pernicious anemia
Stomach polyps
Smoking
Being overweight or obese
A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods
Regular alcohol consumption
Previous stomach surgery for an ulcer
Type-A blood
Epstein-Barr virus infection
Certain genetic factors
Occupational exposure to coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries
Exposure to asbestos
Family history of gastric cancer
If you experience persistent symptoms or have multiple risk factors, your doctor may recommend tests to diagnose stomach cancer, such as:
Blood tests
Upper endoscopy
Upper GI series test
CT scan
Biopsy
Treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stage of the disease and may include:
Surgery to remove part or all of the stomach and nearby lymph nodes
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life
Your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and the extent of your cancer.
While not all cases of stomach cancer can be prevented, you can take steps to reduce your risk, such as:
Treating stomach infections like H. pylori
Eating a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
Discussing the risks and benefits of long-term aspirin or NSAID use with your doctor
By understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with stomach cancer, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and seek prompt medical attention if necessary. If you have concerns about your risk for stomach cancer, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider.
For more information on stomach cancer, visit:
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