Stomach cancer is a common type of cancer that begins in the lining of the stomach and can spread to other parts of the body. Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases in the world, and despite the progress of medicine and medical sciences, it still poses a great challenge for early diagnosis and effective treatment. In this article, we’ll explore more about stomach cancer, from the causes and contributing factors to its symptoms and treatment options.
The concept of stomach cancer
Definition of stomach cancer:
Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells that make up the lining of the stomach. This type of cancer can be very harmful if it is not detected and treated in its early stages.
Types of stomach cancer:
There are different types of stomach cancer, including:
Adenocarcinoma: It is the most common type of stomach cancer and begins in the adenocarcinoma of the stomach.
Gastric Lymphoma: It begins in the heart cells of the stomach and is a rare type of stomach cancer.
Non-Hodgkin Gastric Lymphoma: Another rare type of lymphoma that starts in the cells of the larynx.
Stromal Tumor: It begins in the cells that make up the supporting tissue of the stomach and is a rare type of stomach cancer.
Causes and risk factors for stomach cancer
Risk factors:
There are several factors, ranging from genetics to environmental, that can increase the risk of stomach cancer, including:
Age:
The risk of stomach cancer increases with age. Older people are more susceptible to it.
Gender:
Some suggest that males are more likely to develop stomach cancer than females, but this can partly be attributed to different dietary patterns and social customs.
Genetic factors:
If there is a family history of stomach cancer, the risk of developing it increases. Genetic mutations play a possible role in increasing this risk.
Environmental factors:
Some environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to smoking or exposure to hazardous chemicals, may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Smoking:
There is a relationship between smoking and an increased risk of stomach cancer.
Helicobacter pylori infection:
This infection is an important risk factor for stomach cancer.
A diet rich in salt and poor in fruits and vegetables:
Studies show that a diet that contains large amounts of salt and few fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of stomach cancer.
Symptoms and signs of stomach cancer
As we noted in the introduction, stomach cancer is considered the “silent killer” because symptoms are often not obvious in the early stages of the disease.
However, common symptoms and signs of stomach cancer can include:
Upper abdominal pain: The sufferer may feel chronic pain or pressure in the upper abdomen.
Digestive disorders: These disorders can include chronic acidity, frequent belching, and frequent constipation or diarrhea.
Anorexia: Patients lose their appetite for food and avoid eating, leading to unexplained weight loss.
Persistent vomiting: Vomiting may be repeated and may sometimes contain blood.
Abdominal bloating: There can be abnormal bloating in the abdomen due to a gastric tumor.
Changes in stool habits: Changes such as constipation or diarrhea, and in some cases blood in the stool, can occur.
Extreme fatigue and weakness: The affected person may feel generally tired and weak as a result of the progression of the disease.
Neck swelling: In some cases, swelling may appear in the neck area as a result of the spread of the tumor.
Diagnosis and examinations
Diagnosis of stomach cancer:
The diagnostic process begins with the patient’s medical history and questioning the symptoms he or she is experiencing. After that, a clinical examination is performed and medical imaging is used to check for any changes in the stomach.
Common examinations include:
Stomach imaging: This includes X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and computer tomography scan.
Pancreas and small intestine examination: This examination can help determine the extent of the tumor and check for any spread to the small intestine or pancreas.
Upper Endoscopy: A thin tube equipped with a camera is inserted through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach to examine the gastric lining and take tissue samples.
Blood test: It can include a blood test to detect possible signs of stomach cancer such as high levels of certain chemical compounds.
Treatment Options
Stomach cancer treatment:
Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease, the type of tumor, 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 at an early stage.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation can be used to reduce the size of the tumor before or after surgery.
Chemotherapy: Chemo drugs are used to treat stomach cancer, and may be used alone or in combination with surgery or radiation.
Antibiotics (Targeted Therapy): These medications specifically target tumor cells without affecting healthy cells.
Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormones can be used to help treat stomach cancer.
Treatment of vascular diseases: In cases of a tumor that greatly affects the blood vessels, treatments targeting these vessels may be used.
Prevention and awareness
How to prevent stomach cancer:
Although it is difficult to predict who will develop stomach cancer, there are some measures that can be taken to prevent this disease:
Eat healthy: You should include fruits, vegetables and fiber in your diet and avoid foods high in salt and saturated fats.
Reducing smoking: You must abstain from smoking and avoid exposure to passive smoking.
Controlling genetic factors: If there is a family history of the disease, regular examinations and periodic medical follow-up must be performed.
Avoid harmful environmental factors: Prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals should be avoided.
Consult a doctor: You should see a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms that indicate a stomach problem or if you are suffering from risk factors for stomach cancer.
Conclusion
Stomach cancer is a malignant disease that can be fatal if not recognized and treated early. It is necessary to be aware of the symptoms and factors contributing to the occurrence of this disease and to seek medical help when needed. If stomach cancer is diagnosed early, there can be a better chance of recovery and recovery. Prevention and awareness are the key to overcoming this insidious disease and reducing its incidence in the future.
