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Written by Prerna Mittra | Updated : July 1, 2024 4:36 PM IST
Also known as gastric cancer, stomach cancer happens when cells start to grow 'abnormally' in the inner lining of the stomach, leading to the formation of tumors. It can spread to other parts of the body if it is not diagnosed promptly. In some cases, the cancer can develop in the place where the stomach meets the esophagus -- gastroesophageal junction.
According to Dr Ganesh Nagarajan, director of hepatobiliary pancreatic gastrointestinal oncology, Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care, the risk of developing stomach cancer increases after the age of 55; men are more vulnerable. People who smoke or drink alcohol should also be careful, especially if they have a family history of stomach cancer. One must also refrain from eating food that is high in sodium. Obese people are also at risk. Scroll down to find out about some symptoms.
Dr Nagarajan said some might feel discomfort or pain in their upper abdomen, especially after eating food. They might experience burning sensations, bloating, or constipation. It can be an alarming sign if this indigestion is persistent even after making dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Some may notice they suddenly feel less hungry or do not want to eat anything. This can worsen their health and also lead to other health complications such as weight loss and malnutrition.
Frequently feeling weak or getting tired even after doing a small task can indicate stomach cancer. Individuals may find it hard to even eat, walk, commute to their workplace, and do household chores.
Some may experience sharp cramp-like pain in their stomach that may become unbearable and intense over time. This pain is mostly felt in the middle or upper abdomen. It may come and go, or stay constant for more than a few hours.
The urge to vomit may happen after visualising any food item, while eating food, or even without eating anything. This might lead to weight loss and a lack of appetite.
Stomach cancer can lead to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in the passing of blood in vomitus or through stools. It is usually black. The colour of blood in the stool often indicates the exact cause of the bleeding. Bloody stools can also indicate other underlying health conditions.
Treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread in the inner lining of the stomach. Depending upon the stage of the cancer, the patient either directly undergoes surgery in early stages or in locally-advanced stages. They are given chemotherapy first. Surgical treatment comprises either a partial or a total gastrectomy along with the complete D2 lymphadenectomy, which involves clearing of all the draining lymph nodes. Early detection is the key to long-term survival, the doctor said.
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