What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer, which is also commonly referred to as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer beginning in the cells which line the stomach. Stomach cancer can appear in any part of the stomach, however in most cases, it appears in the main part of the stomach, or the stomach body. In the United States, however, stomach cancer is more likely to start by the junction where the esophagus meets the stomach.
What causes stomach cancer?
Although the exact cause of stomach cancer is not fully known, there are several factors that may increase the risk of developing the disease at some point in life, including:
- H. pylori bacteria
- A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty food
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history of stomach cancer
What are symptoms of stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer can present in a variety of ways, but the symptoms that are most observed include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Unintentional weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- A feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Extreme fatigue
- Blood in the stool
In the early stages of stomach cancer, there may be no symptoms which can make it challenging for a doctor to diagnose.
How is stomach cancer diagnosed?
In diagnosing stomach cancer, a combination of imaging tests is typically recommended by a physician, such as a CT scan, endoscopy, and soft tissue biopsy. During an endoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera is inserted through the mouth to get a better look at the stomach lining. Your doctor will be able to retrieve a soft tissue biopsy during this procedure. Following this series of tests to confirm a diagnosis, your doctor will interpret the test results and discuss treatment with you.
What are treatment options for stomach cancer?
Treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stager of the disease and may include:
- Surgery to remove part or all the stomach
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
The goal of treatment is to remove or destroy any existing cancer cells and prevent the spread of the disease to other parts of the body. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms that could trace back to stomach cancer, as early detection and treatment can greatly improve a prognosis and quality of life for individuals with stomach cancer.