What is Gastric Cancer?
Gastric cancer, also known as
stomach cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. This type of cancer tends to develop slowly and may not cause symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to diagnose until it is more advanced.
What are the Risk Factors?
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing gastric cancer. These include
Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, a diet high in salted, smoked, or poorly preserved foods, and certain genetic conditions. Other risk factors include chronic gastritis, pernicious anemia, and a family history of gastric cancer.
What are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of gastric cancer can vary and may include indigestion, stomach discomfort or pain, nausea, and vomiting. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may also involve
unintended weight loss, difficulty swallowing, feeling full after eating small amounts of food, and blood in the stool. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if these symptoms persist.
How is Gastric Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.
Endoscopy is one of the most common methods, where a thin tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to view the stomach lining. Other diagnostic tools include
biopsy, imaging tests like CT scans, and blood tests to check for anemia and other related conditions.
What are the Treatment Options?
Treatment for gastric cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Surgery may involve removing part or all of the stomach, while chemotherapy and radiation aim to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific cancer cell markers.
What is the Prognosis?
The prognosis for gastric cancer varies widely depending on the stage at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the response to treatment. Early-stage gastric cancer has a better prognosis, with higher survival rates. However, advanced-stage gastric cancer is more challenging to treat and has a lower survival rate. Follow-up care and monitoring are crucial for managing the disease and improving outcomes.
Can Gastric Cancer be Prevented?
While it may not be entirely preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing gastric cancer. These include maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoked and salted foods, quitting smoking, and treating
H. pylori infections. Regular medical check-ups and screening for those at higher risk can also aid in early detection and prevention.
