GASTRIC CANCER/ STOMACH CANCER

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a type of cancer that occurs in the cells lining the stomach. It is the fifth most common cancer worldwide, and it often has no symptoms in its early stages, which can make it difficult to detect.

TYPES OF GASTRIC CANCER

  1. Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type of gastric cancer, and it develops in the cells that make up the lining of the stomach.
  2. Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system of the stomach.
  3. Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): This is a rare type of gastric cancer that develops in the cells of the stomach wall.

 

CAUSE OF GASTRIC CANCER

  1. Age: Gastric cancer is more common in older adults.
  2. Gender: Men are more likely to develop gastric cancer than women.
  3. Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium is a common cause of stomach ulcers and has been linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer.
  4. Diet: A diet high in smoked, salted, or pickled foods and low in fruits and vegetables has been linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer.
  5. Family history: Having a close family member with gastric cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease.

 

GASTRIC CANCER SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of gastric cancer can vary, and in some cases, there may be no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may occur:
  1. Indigestion or heartburn: Persistent indigestion or heartburn may be a symptom of gastric cancer.
  2. Abdominal pain: Pain in the stomach area may occur, particularly after eating.
  3. Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting may occur, particularly after eating.
  4. Loss of appetite: A loss of appetite and weight loss may occur, even without trying to lose weight.
  5. Feeling full after eating small amounts: Feeling full after eating small amounts of food may be a symptom of gastric cancer.
  6. Difficulty swallowing: Difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing may occur.
  7. Blood in stool or vomit: Blood in the stool or vomit may be a symptom of advanced gastric cancer.

GASTRIC CANCER TREATMENT

The treatment of gastric cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the age and overall health of the patient, and the patient’s personal preferences. The primary treatment options for gastric cancer include:
  1. Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for early-stage gastric cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and any nearby lymph nodes.
  2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
  3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or in combination with chemotherapy.
  4. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
  5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses drugs to help the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
  6. Palliative care: Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with advanced-stage gastric cancer. It may include pain management, symptom relief, and emotional support.

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