Stomach Cancer: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious condition that develops when malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. It's crucial to be aware of the potential warning signs of stomach cancer and understand the diagnostic process, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. In this article, we'll delve into the common symptoms of stomach cancer, risk factors, and the tests used to diagnose this condition. Armed with this knowledge, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and seek timely medical care.

What is Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)?

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, occurs when cancerous cells develop in the inner lining (mucosa) of the stomach. These abnormal cells can grow and spread to other parts of the stomach and, in advanced stages, to nearby organs or lymph nodes. Stomach cancer is more common in older adults, typically affecting people over the age of 50. Men are more likely to develop stomach cancer compared to women.

Types of Stomach Cancer

There are several types of stomach cancer, each originating from different cells within the stomach:

• Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, accounting for about 90-95% of all stomach cancers. It develops from the cells that form the innermost lining of the stomach (mucosa).
• Lymphoma: Originates in the immune system cells within the stomach wall. It accounts for about 4% of stomach cancers.
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours (GISTs): Rare tumours that develop in the connective tissue (stroma) of the stomach wall. They account for less than 2% of stomach cancers.
• Carcinoid Tumours: Slow-growing tumours that originate from hormone-producing cells in the stomach. They are very rare, accounting for less than 1% of stomach cancers.

Understanding the specific type of stomach cancer is important, as it helps guide treatment decisions and determines the prognosis.

Common Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

In its early stages, stomach cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, making early detection challenging. As the cancer progresses, however, the following symptoms of stomach cancer may appear:

• Persistent indigestion or heartburn
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially in the upper abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly after eating small amounts
• Unexplained weight loss
• Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Blood in the stool or vomit (may appear as dark, tarry stools or coffee-ground vomit)

If you experience any of these stomach cancer symptoms persistently, it's crucial to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors Linked to Stomach Cancer

Here are some of the stomach cancer causes and risk factors:

• Diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods
• Low consumption of fruits and vegetables
• Obesity and lack of physical activity
• Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria
• Family history of stomach cancer
• Certain genetic syndromes, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce your risk of developing stomach cancer.

Diagnosing Stomach Cancer: Tests and Procedures

If your doctor suspects stomach cancer based on your symptoms and risk factors, they may recommend the following tests:

• Upper Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through your mouth and into your stomach to examine the stomach lining. During the procedure, your doctor may take tissue samples (biopsy) for further analysis.
• Biopsy: A small sample of suspicious tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. This is the only way to definitively diagnose stomach cancer.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, or MRI scans may be used to visualise the stomach and determine the extent of cancer spread.
• Blood Tests: Certain blood markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), may be elevated in individuals with stomach cancer.

Your healthcare team will use the results of these tests to determine the stage of the cancer and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer: Surgery, Chemotherapy, and More

Treatment for stomach cancer depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, your overall health, and personal preferences. The main treatment options include:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for stomach cancer is surgery to remove the cancerous part of the stomach (partial gastrectomy) or the entire stomach (total gastrectomy), along with nearby lymph nodes.
• Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs are used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy for stomach cancer may be given before surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells in a specific area. Radiation therapy may be combined with chemotherapy before or after surgery.
• Targeted Therapy: This treatment targets specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. Targeted therapies are often used in combination with chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment harnesses the power of your immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be an option for advanced stomach cancer that has not responded to other treatments.

Your doctor will consider your overall health, preferences, and the potential side effects when recommending a treatment plan.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Risk of Stomach Cancer

While some stomach cancer risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, you can take steps to lower your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit your intake of smoked, pickled, and high-salt foods
• Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Treat H. pylori infections promptly with antibiotics as directed by your doctor

Adopting these healthy habits not only reduces your risk of stomach cancer but also promotes overall well-being.

Living with Stomach Cancer: Support and Coping Strategies

Receiving a stomach cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but remember that you are not alone. Consider these strategies to help you cope:

• Join a support group for people with stomach cancer to share experiences and find encouragement.
• Communicate openly with your family and friends about your feelings and how they can support you.
• Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, deep breathing, or gentle exercise.
• Seek professional counselling to help you process your emotions and develop coping strategies.
• Focus on maintaining a positive outlook and celebrating small victories along your journey.

Role of Genetics in Stomach Cancer

While most cases of stomach cancer are not hereditary, about 1-3% of cases are caused by inherited genetic mutations. The most well-known inherited condition that increases the risk of stomach cancer is hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC). This condition is caused by mutations in the CDH1 gene, which provides instructions for making a protein called E-cadherin. People with HDGC have a high risk of developing stomach cancer at a young age.

If you have a strong family history of stomach cancer, your doctor may recommend genetic testing to assess your risk and guide preventive measures.

Prevention Tips: Early Detection and Healthy Habits

The best way to prevent stomach cancer is to identify and address risk factors early on. Here are some tips to help you stay proactive about your health:

• Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, especially if you have a family history of stomach cancer or other risk factors.
• Be aware of the warning signs of stomach cancer, and don't hesitate to consult your doctor if you experience persistent symptoms.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use.
• If you have been diagnosed with H. pylori infection, follow your doctor's treatment plan to eradicate the bacteria and reduce your risk of stomach cancer.

Conclusion

Stomach cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt attention and expert care. By understanding the common symptoms of stomach cancer, risk factors, and diagnostic process, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and catch any potential issues early on. If you are experiencing persistent stomach cancer symptoms, don't hesitate to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and guidance.

At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of early detection and personalised care. Our team of skilled pathologists and technicians provides reliable diagnostic services, including blood tests and biopsy analysis, to help identify stomach cancer in its early stages. With a network of state-of-the-art labs across India and convenient at-home sample collection, we are committed to delivering accurate results and supporting you on your health journey.