Stomach cancer is nothing but the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the stomach. Though it’s very uncommon like other cancers, it still remains a significant concern globally. Understanding its causes, symptoms and risk factors can help in early detection and better management.
The Causes
Though the exact cause of the cancer is not always clear, the cancer often begins with abnormal growth of cells in the stomachs’ inner lining. Certain factors contributing to its development may include:
- Helicobacter pylori Infection: A common bacterial infection in the stomach that leads to chronic inflammation along with causing ulcers, gastritis and stomach cancers.
- Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: One of the major sources of a few cancers, Alcohol and Tobacco consumption can damage cells on the stomach linings and promote cancer growth.
- Dietary Habits: High intake of smokes, grilled or barbecued food, along with salted and pickled foods increases the risk of stomach cancer.
- Genetic Mutations: In Certain cases, it is seen people with inherited genetic changes or a family history of stomach cancers can also get stomach cancer.
The Symptoms
Symptoms of stomach cancer normally do not appear during the early stages, making it challenging for early stage detection. However, as the disease progresses, certain common symptoms might be seen/felt including:
- Fatigue and Weakness
- Indigestion and heartburn
- Loss of hunger
- Feeling full after eating small amounts
- Nausea & Vomiting
- Weightloss
- Pain or discomfort in abdomen
Risks Involved
Multiple factors can be responsible for the development of stomach cancer, like:
- Age and Gender: It is particularly seen that stomach cancer develops mostly in older adults and especially men.
- People with a family history of stomach cancer have an increased risk of getting it.
- Certain pre-existing conditions like Chronic gastritis, stomach polyps, pernicious anemia etc are linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.
- Excess body weight or obesity can lead to inflammation and cancer.
Though stomach cancer can be deadly, early stage detection along with lifestyle modifications and certain treatment procedures can lead to improved outcomes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle including taking more green veggies along with avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and seeking right medical advice for regular digestive issues can help in prevention. However, people with high risk of stomach cancer should go for regular screenings. Right awareness and early action can make outstanding differences in fighting stomach cancer.
Worried about your gut health? Having symptoms of stomach cancer? Visit Dr. Ranajit Kar, Odisha’s leading Radiation Oncologist.
Cancer is not a one day or two day treatment, it’s a continuous battle. However, with dedicated experts like Dr. Kar, patients receive proper medical care along with emotional and mental support. His battle for cancer care ensures that more patients can access better treatment and achieve better outcomes.