🩺 Stomach (Gastric) Cancer: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
🌟 What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, occurs when abnormal cells in the stomach lining grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. It often develops slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages, making early detection critical.
🔎 Causes & Risk Factors
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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection → major risk factor for chronic inflammation.
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Diet → high salt intake, smoked or processed foods.
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Smoking & alcohol → increase risk.
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Genetics & family history → inherited genetic mutations.
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Chronic stomach conditions → gastritis, polyps, or pernicious anemia.
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Age & gender → more common in people over 50, slightly higher in men.
🩺 Symptoms
Early-stage stomach cancer may have no obvious symptoms, but as it progresses, symptoms may include:
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Persistent indigestion or heartburn.
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Stomach pain or discomfort.
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Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood.
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Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss.
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Feeling full quickly after small meals.
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Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen.
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Fatigue or weakness.
⚠️ Complications
If left untreated, stomach cancer can:
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Spread to nearby organs (liver, pancreas, intestines).
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Cause bleeding in the stomach.
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Lead to blockage in the digestive tract.
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Spread to lymph nodes and distant organs (metastasis).
❤️ Treatment & Management
Treatment depends on the stage of cancer and overall health:
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Surgery → removing part or all of the stomach (gastrectomy) to remove cancer.
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Chemotherapy → drugs to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
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Radiation therapy → uses high-energy rays to target cancer.
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Targeted therapy → drugs that target specific molecules in cancer cells.
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Immunotherapy → boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
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Lifestyle & supportive care:
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Balanced diet with small, frequent meals.
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Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Regular follow-ups and monitoring.
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🌍 Living with Stomach Cancer
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Early detection significantly improves survival rates.
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Support from family, doctors, and support groups is essential.
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Post-treatment care includes nutrition management, regular check-ups, and emotional support.
✅ Key Takeaway:
Stomach cancer is a serious disease caused by abnormal cell growth in the stomach lining. Early detection, proper treatment, and lifestyle support can improve outcomes and help patients lead healthier lives.