Stomach Cancer: Understanding the Disease and Its Impact

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease that develops in the cells lining the stomach. It is the fourth most common cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In this article, we will delve into stomach cancer, exploring its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of stomach cancer is often unknown. However, certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. These risk factors include:

• Helicobacter pylori infection: Chronic infection with H. pylori bacteria is a major risk factor for stomach cancer.
• Age and gender: Stomach cancer is more common in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being around 68. Men tend to have a higher risk compared to women.
• Family history: Having a family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic conditions, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), can increase the risk.
• Diet: Consuming a diet high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods, as well as low in fruits and vegetables, has been associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer.
• Tobacco and alcohol use: Long-term tobacco and heavy alcohol consumption have been linked to an elevated risk.
• Previous stomach surgery: Individuals who have undergone certain types of stomach surgery, such as gastric bypass surgery, may have an increased risk.

Signs and Symptoms:

In the early stages, stomach cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Feeling full or bloated after eating small amounts
• Nausea and vomiting
• Persistent heartburn or indigestion
• Unintentional weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools (indicating bleeding in the stomach)

It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by various other conditions. However, if they persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing stomach cancer typically involves a series of tests and procedures, including:

• Medical history and physical examination: A healthcare professional will review the individual's medical history, assess symptoms, and perform a physical examination.
• Endoscopy: This procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to examine the inside of the stomach and collect tissue samples for biopsy.
• Imaging tests: Imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET) scans may be conducted to determine the extent of the cancer and if it has spread to other parts of the body.
• Biopsy: During endoscopy, small tissue samples are collected and analyzed in the laboratory to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the type and stage of stomach cancer.

Treatment:

Treatment options for stomach cancer depend on various factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the individual's overall health. Treatment modalities may include:

• Surgery: Surgical procedures aim to remove the tumor and a portion or all of the stomach, depending on the extent of cancer spread.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth, either before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy), after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy), or in advanced cases to relieve symptoms.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays or other radiation sources are used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.