Stomach Cancer

Key Statistics 🔔

• Stomach cancer is one of the most prevalent malignant cancers globally.
• Late diagnosis is common because symptoms are often non-specific or appear at advanced stages.
• It predominantly affects individuals over the age of 50, although younger people and children are also affected.

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What Causes Stomach Cancer? 🤔

While the exact cause is not fully understood, certain factors increase the risk, including:

• Chronic gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.
• Stomach conditions such as polyps, atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and dysplasia.
• Pernicious anemia.
• History of partial or full stomach removal.
• Family history of stomach cancer.
• Diets high in animal products and low in plant-based foods.
• Excessive consumption of nitrosamines, found in salted and preserved foods.
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity.

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Symptoms to Watch For 👀

Symptoms can be subtle and vary between individuals. Some may experience no symptoms at all. Common signs include:

• Discomfort or a sense of heaviness in the abdomen.
• Feeling full after eating small amounts.
• Difficulty swallowing.
• Aversion to meat.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Heartburn or acid reflux.
• Loss of appetite.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue from everyday activities.
• Bloating

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How Is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed? 🩺

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Diagnosis involves:

Consultation and Tests 👨‍⚕️

• Gastro-hepatology consultation to evaluate symptoms and risk factors.
• Gastroscopy with biopsy, which is the most important diagnostic tool for stomach cancer.
• Abdominal ultrasound to assess surrounding structures.

Laboratory Tests 🔬

• Complete blood count to check for anemia.
• Stool tests for occult blood.
• Tumor markers such as CEA, AFP, and CA19-9.

Imaging Studies 🖥️

• CT scans of the chest and abdomen.
• MRI to identify potential metastases.

Additional Procedures 🛌

• Laparotomy (surgical exploration) may be performed if other tests do not provide a clear diagnosis.

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Treatment Options 🏥

The treatment plan depends on the stage of the cancer. The most important include:

1. Endoscopic treatment for very early-stage cancers.
2. Surgery to remove part or all of the stomach in localized cases.
3. Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for advanced stages or in conjunction with surgery.
4. Palliative care, including pain management, for advanced cases where surgery is not possible.

Important: After surgery, patients must follow dietary advice and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and prevent recurrence. ⚠️

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Can Stomach Cancer Be Prevented? 🛡️

While complete prevention is challenging, early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk.

Recommended Screening 👨‍⚕️

• Regular gastroenterology check-ups for:
  • Individuals over 40.
  • Those with a family history of stomach cancer.
  • People with anemia of unknown cause.

What to Avoid 🚫

• Excessive consumption of preserved or salty foods. 🥓
• Excessive alcohol intake. 🍺
• Sedentary lifestyles. 🚶‍♂️

What to Include in Your Diet ✅

• Daily servings of vegetables and fresh produce. 🥦🥬🥒
• Fruits to promote overall health and reduce cancer risk. 🍉🍇🍓

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Key Takeaway 🌟

Stomach cancer is a serious condition, but early detection and proactive lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. If you experience any persistent symptoms or have risk factors, consult a gastroenterologist promptly. Adopting a balanced diet, avoiding harmful habits, and prioritizing regular health check-ups are key steps in protecting yourself against this disease.

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DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page has been intentionally condensed and simplified to make it accessible and easier to understand for the general audience. Its purpose is solely to provide basic awareness and education on the topic discussed. It is important to note that this content is not exhaustive and does not replace or serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are strongly advised to seek consultations with qualified healthcare professionals or specialists for accurate assessment, personalized guidance, and appropriate medical care. Relying solely on the information provided here, without professional oversight, may lead to misunderstandings or inadequate treatment.