Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the stomach. It is a fairly rare type of cancer, accounting for only about 1% of all cancer cases in the United States. However, it is a serious and potentially deadly condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of stomach cancer can vary widely, and many people with early stage stomach cancer may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms can include:
- Persistent stomach pain
- A feeling of fullness or bloating after eating only a small amount of food
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unexpected weight loss
- Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fatigue and weakness
- Heartburn or indigestion that does not go away with over-the-counter medications
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. While these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, it is important to rule out the possibility of stomach cancer.
Diagnosis of stomach cancer typically begins with a physical exam and medical history review. Your doctor may also order one or more of the following tests:
- Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera through the mouth and into the stomach to examine the lining for abnormalities.
- Biopsy: During an endoscopy, a small tissue sample may be taken for further testing to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
- CT scan: This test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body, including the stomach and surrounding organs.
- PET scan: This test uses a small amount of radioactive material to create images of the body’s tissues and organs. It can help to identify cancer cells and determine how advanced the cancer is.
If stomach cancer is diagnosed, the next step is determining the stage of the cancer. This is done through additional testing, such as an MRI or laparoscopy, which involves inserting a small camera through a small incision in the abdomen to examine the inside of the stomach. The stage of the cancer is important in determining the appropriate treatment plan.
There are several treatment options available for stomach cancer, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. These options may include:
- Surgery: This is the most common treatment for stomach cancer. The type of surgery performed will depend on the location and stage of the cancer. For early stage cancer, a partial gastrectomy may be performed, which involves removing the part of the stomach containing the cancer. For more advanced cancer, a total gastrectomy may be necessary, which involves removing the entire stomach.
- Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be used before or after surgery to help reduce the size of the cancer or kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or in combination with chemotherapy.
- Targeted therapy: This treatment uses drugs that target specific proteins or genes that allow cancer cells to grow and survive. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy.
Stomach cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. While the prognosis for stomach cancer can vary widely depending on the stage and location of the cancer, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.