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Stomach Cancer

Diseases and Conditions Stomach Cancer
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignancy that originates in the stomach lining. It arises from the abnormal growth of cells within the stomach. The stomach, a vital organ in the upper middle part of the abdomen, plays a crucial role in breaking down and digesting food. Stomach cancer can occur in any part of the stomach, but it is most common in the main body of the stomach. In the United States, it often starts near the gastroesophageal junction, where the esophagus meets the stomach. Understanding the type, stage, and location of the cancer is essential for effective treatment planning.

Types of Stomach Cancer

  1. Adenocarcinomas: These are the most common type of stomach cancers, accounting for approximately 90% to 95% of cases. Adenocarcinomas develop from the innermost lining of the stomach. There are two subtypes:
    • Intestinal adenocarcinomas: These tend to be slow-growing and are more treatable. They often respond well to targeted therapy drugs.
    • Diffuse adenocarcinomas: Less common but more aggressive, they spread rapidly and are often diagnosed at a younger age.
    • Linitis plastica: A rare subtype characterized by widespread cancer cells throughout the stomach, leading to tissue stiffening. It is challenging to treat.
  2. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): These non-epithelial tumors start in the stomach wall and are relatively uncommon.
  3. Lymphomas: Rare stomach cancers originating from immune system cells.
  4. Carcinoid Tumors: Another rare type arising from hormone-producing cells in the stomach lining.

Causes of Stomach Cancer

Helicobacter pylori infection: Chronic infection with H. pylori bacteria is a major cause, especially for cancers in the lower part of the stomach.

Risk Factors of Stomach Cancer

Several factors increase the risk of stomach cancer:

  • Diet: Consuming salted, smoked, or pickled foods increases the risk. Conversely, a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables lowers the risk.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese is linked to cancers of the upper stomach.
  • Tobacco and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol use elevate the risk.
  • Age and Gender: Stomach cancer is more common in older individuals and men.
  • Ethnicity: It is more prevalent in Hispanic Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders.
  • Geography: Higher incidence in East Asia, Eastern Europe, and South/Central America.

Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

Early-stage stomach cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
1. Severe, Localized Pain or Large Open Wounds: If you experience debilitating pain or have large open wounds, contact emergency services immediately. Explain your condition, and they will send an ambulance if needed. Alternatively, someone you know can take you to the emergency room.
2. Difficulty Breathing: If you have trouble breathing, visit the emergency room promptly.
3. Sudden Numbness or Weakness: Seek medical attention if you experience sudden numbness or weakness.
4. Severe Headaches and Head Injuries: If you have severe headaches or head injuries, consider visiting the emergency room.
5. Inability to Speak, See, or Move: These symptoms require immediate evaluation.
6. Stinging Chest Pain: Chest pain could indicate serious conditions like a heart attack. Pay close attention and seek medical help if needed.
7. Fever: Fever Over 103°F (39°C): If your fever is high, visit the doctor promptly to determine the cause. Fever Between 100–102°F (38–39°C): Monitor your temperature for another 2 days. If it persists, consult your doctor. Fever with Rash: Contact your doctor if you have a rash along with a fever.
8. Head Injuries and Concussions: If you’ve had a head injury and experience dizziness, sluggishness, nausea, or sensitivity to light .

Preventions of Stomach Cancer

To reduce the risk of stomach cancer:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Include fruits and vegetables in your diet
  • Quit smoking
  • Treat H. pylori infection
  • Limit alcohol consumption

 

Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer

Diagnosis involves:

  • Blood tests
  • Endoscopy
  • Barium swallow
  • Biopsy. 

Treatment for Stomach Cancer

Treatment options include

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Immunotherapy.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you’ve had a head injury and experience dizziness, sluggishness, nausea, or sensitivity to light and noise, see a doctor.