Stomach cancer, the silent killer. Here are the signs and symptoms!

 

Stomach cancer is a common form of cancer that begins in the stomach lining and can spread to other parts of the body. Stomach cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases worldwide, and despite advances in medicine and medical science, early diagnosis and effective treatment remain a major challenge. In this article, we explore stomach cancer in depth, from its causes and contributing factors to its symptoms and treatment options.

 

 

The concept of stomach cancer

Definition of stomach cancer:
Stomach cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the cells that form the stomach lining. This type of cancer can be very harmful if not detected and treated early.

Types of stomach cancer:
There are several types of stomach cancer, including:

Adenocarcinoma  : This is the most common form of stomach cancer and begins in adenocarcinoma of the stomach.

 

 

Gastric lymphoma  : This begins in the heart cells of the stomach and is a rare form of stomach cancer.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the stomach  : Another rare type of lymphoma that begins in the cells of the larynx.

Stromal tumor:  This begins in the cells that form the supporting tissue of the stomach and is a rare form of stomach cancer.

Causes and risk factors for stomach cancer

Risk factors:
There are several factors, from genetics to environmental factors, that can increase your risk of stomach cancer, including:

Age:

 

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The risk of stomach cancer increases with age. Older adults are more susceptible.

Gender:

Some claim that men are more likely to develop stomach cancer than women, but this may be partly attributed to different dietary patterns and social habits.

Genetic factors:

 

 

If stomach cancer runs in your family, your risk of developing it is higher. Genetic mutations may play a role in increasing this risk.

Environmental factors:

Some environmental factors, such as long-term exposure to smoking or hazardous chemicals, can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Smoking:

 

 

There is a link between smoking and an increased risk of stomach cancer.

Helicobacter pylori infection:

This infection is an important risk factor for stomach cancer.

A diet high in salt and low in fruits and vegetables:

Research shows that a diet high in salt and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Symptoms and signs of stomach cancer

Symptoms and signs of stomach cancer

 

 

As we mentioned in the introduction, stomach cancer is considered a "silent killer" because symptoms are often unclear in the early stages of the disease. However, common symptoms and signs of stomach cancer may include:

Upper abdominal pain: The patient may feel chronic pain or pressure in the upper abdomen.

Digestive disorders: These disorders may include chronic heartburn, frequent belching, and frequent constipation or diarrhea.

 

 

Anorexia  : Patients lose their appetite and avoid eating, leading to unexplained weight loss.

Persistent vomiting  : Vomiting may occur repeatedly and may sometimes be accompanied by blood.

Bloating in the abdomen:  There may be abnormal swelling in the abdomen due to a stomach tumor.

Changes in bowel movements:  Changes such as constipation or diarrhea may occur, and in some cases there may be blood in the stool.

 

 

Extreme fatigue and weakness:  The affected person may feel generally tired and weak as the disease progresses.

Swelling in the neck  : In some cases, swelling in the neck may occur due to metastasis of the tumor.

Diagnosis and examinations

Diagnosis of stomach cancer:
The diagnostic process begins with the patient's medical history and a record of the symptoms they are experiencing. A clinical examination is then performed, and medical imaging is used to detect any changes in the stomach.

 

 

Common tests include:

Imaging of the stomach: This involves X-rays, ultrasound, MRI and computed tomography.

Examination of the pancreas and small intestine: This examination can determine the size of the tumor and check for metastases to the small intestine or pancreas.

Upper endoscopy: This involves passing a thin tube with a camera through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach to examine the stomach lining and take tissue samples.

Blood tests: This may include a blood test to look for possible signs of stomach cancer, such as high levels of certain chemical compounds.

Treatment options

Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease, the tumor type, and the patient's general health. Treatment options may include:

Surgery: Surgical treatment may involve removing part or all of the stomach and surrounding tissue if the tumor is in an early stage.

Radiation therapy: Radiation may be used to shrink the tumor before or after surgery.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are used to treat stomach cancer and may be used alone or in combination with surgery or radiation.

Antibiotics (targeted therapy): These drugs specifically target tumor cells without affecting healthy cells.

 

 

 

Hormone therapy: In some cases, hormones can be used to treat stomach cancer.

Treatment of vascular diseases: In the case of a tumor that severely affects the blood vessels, treatments can be used that target these blood vessels.

Prevention and awareness

How to prevent stomach cancer:

Although it is difficult to predict who will develop stomach cancer, there are a number of measures that can be taken to prevent this disease:

Eat healthy: Make sure you include fruits, vegetables and fiber in your diet and avoid foods high in salt and saturated fats.

 

 

 

Smoking Less: You should stop smoking and avoid passive smoking.

 

 

 

Monitoring of genetic factors: If there is a family history of the disease, regular examinations and periodic medical check-ups should be carried out.

Avoid harmful environmental factors: Avoid prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Consult a doctor: You should consult a doctor if you experience symptoms suggestive of a stomach problem or if you have risk factors for stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is a malignant disease that can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early. It's important to understand the symptoms and factors that contribute to the development of this disease and to seek medical attention if necessary. Early diagnosis of stomach cancer increases the chance of recovery. Prevention and awareness are key to overcoming this insidious disease and reducing the risk of future cases.