Stomach Cancer/ Symptoms/Causes/Treatment
What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, develops when cancerous cells grow in the lining of the stomach. This type of cancer often starts in the mucus-producing cells that line the stomach and can spread to other parts of the stomach or nearby organs.
ln the United States, stomach cancer is more likely to start by the gastroesophageal junction.This is the part where the long tube that carries food you swallow meets the stomach. The tube that carries the food to the stomach is called esophagus.
Where the cancer starts in the stomach is one factor health care providers think about when making a treatment plan. Other factors might include the cancer's stages and the type of cells involved. Treatments often includes surgery to remove the stomach cancer. Other treatments may be used before and after surgery.
Symptoms
Symptoms of stomach cancer can vary, and in the early stages, they might not be very noticeable. Some common symptoms include:
Indigestion or heartburn: Persistent discomfort or burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
Feeling full or bloated after eating: Even small meals may make you feel overly full.
Nausea and vomiting: Regular bouts of nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood.
Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
Abdominal pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, typically around the stomach area.
Difficulty swallowing: Feeling like food gets stuck in the throat or having trouble swallowing.
Blood in stool or vomit: Black, tarry stools or vomiting blood can be signs of bleeding in the stomach.
Weakness or fatigue: Feeling tired or weak due to anemia from blood loss.
Loss of appetite: A noticeable decrease in appetite or feeling full sooner than usual.
It's essential to note that these symptoms can be caused by various conditions other than stomach cancer. However, if you're experiencing any persistent or concerning symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection can significantly impact treatment outcomes for stomach cancer.
Causes
Some primary causes and risk factors associated with the development of stomach cancer include:
Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterial infection is one of the most significant risk factors for stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori can cause chronic inflammation in the stomach lining (gastritis) and, over time, may lead to the development of cancerous changes.
Dietary habits: Consuming certain types of foods can contribute to an increased risk. Diets high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods have been linked to a higher incidence of stomach cancer. Conversely, diets rich in fruits and vegetables, which contain antioxidants and nutrients, are associated with a lower risk.
Tobacco and alcohol use: Smoking tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption have both been identified as risk factors for stomach cancer. These habits can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to the development of cancerous cells.
Genetic factors and family history: Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Additionally, certain genetic mutations or inherited conditions, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome, can predispose individuals to stomach cancer.
Age and gender: Stomach cancer is more prevalent in older individuals, with the risk increasing with age. Men tend to have a higher incidence of stomach cancer compared to women.
Pernicious anemia: This condition, often caused by an autoimmune response affecting the stomach lining and reducing the body's ability to absorb vitamin B12, is associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer.
Previous stomach surgery: Certain types of stomach surgeries, such as surgeries to remove part of the stomach, may elevate the risk of developing stomach cancer in the remaining stomach tissue.Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures, such as adopting a healthier diet, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, seeking treatment for H. pylori infections, and undergoing regular screenings, especially for those with a family history or genetic predisposition to stomach cancer. Early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk and improve outcomes for individuals at risk of developing stomach cancer.
Types of stomach Cancer
There are several types of stomach cancer. Some common types include:
Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of stomach cancer, accounting for around 90-95% of cases. It starts in the cells lining the stomach.
Lymphoma: This cancer begins in the immune system cells of the stomach wall. It's less common than adenocarcinoma.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): A rare type of stomach cancer that starts in specialized cells in the
stomach wall called interstitial cells of Cajal.
Carcinoid tumors: These are uncommon and grow slowly in the stomach's hormone-producing cells.
Squamous cell carcinoma and small cell carcinoma: These are less common types of stomach cancer that start in different types of cells within the stomach.
The treatment and prognosis for each type can vary, so it's essential to consult with healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and management.
Diagnosis and treatment
Here's a explanation of the diagnosis of stomach cancer:
Medical History and Physical Examination: When a person visits a doctor with symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or blood in the stool, the doctor will inquire about their medical history and conduct a physical examination. They will pay attention to any signs that may indicate stomach cancer, such as a swollen abdomen or enlarged lymph nodes.
Diagnostic Tests:
Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) down the throat and into the stomach. It allows the doctor to visualize the stomach lining directly, looking for any abnormalities. During an endoscopy, the doctor may also take tissue samples (biopsies) for further examination under a microscope.
Imaging tests: These may include CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, or X-rays. These imaging tests help determine the size of the tumor, its location, and whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Biopsy: If suspicious areas are found during endoscopy or imaging, a biopsy is performed to collect tissue samples for analysis in a laboratory. A pathologist examines these samples to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the type and grade of cancer.
Staging: Once cancer is confirmed, staging helps determine the extent of the disease. This involves understanding how far the cancer has
spread within the stomach and whether it has metastasized (spread) to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
Blood Tests: While not definitive for diagnosis, blood tests may be done to check for certain markers associated with stomach cancer. These markers include carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CA 19-9.
The diagnosis of stomach cancer involves a series of steps that aim to accurately identify the presence of cancer, understand its characteristics, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual's condition. Early detection plays a vital role in improving treatment outcomes. If there are any concerns or symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for stomach cancer typically depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and individual preferences. Treatments can involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Surgery: If the cancer is localized, surgery may be the primary treatment. It could involve removing part or all of the stomach, nearby lymph nodes, or other affected tissues. Sometimes, surgery might be combined with other treatments.
Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be used before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, or as the main treatment for advanced stages to control the disease.
Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays or particles are used to destroy cancer cells. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy: This treatment uses drugs that specifically target certain abnormalities in cancer cells. These drugs can often have fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy: This newer treatment boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer. It's not yet widely used for stomach cancer, but ongoing research is exploring its effectiveness.
Apart from these treatments, supportive care such as nutritional support, pain management, and psychological support are essential. Dieticians, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals play vital roles in the holistic care of cancer Patient .
Remember, each person's case is unique, and treatment plans are tailored accordingly. It's crucial to have open discussions with healthcare providers to understand all available options, potential side effects, and the best approach for individual circumstances.
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