The basic information for Stomach cancer

CK3172 
Created at May 03, 2009 14:44:44
Updated at Dec 01, 2024 13:33:10 
  135   0   0  

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignant tumor that arises in the lining of the stomach. It's a relatively common cancer globally, with variations in incidence rates depending on geographic location and dietary factors. Risk factors include infection with Helicobacter pylori, smoking, a diet high in processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables, pernicious anemia, and a family history of the disease. Symptoms can be vague and often don't appear until the cancer is advanced, including abdominal pain, indigestion, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis involves endoscopy and biopsy, with treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy depending on the stage and type of cancer.

The basic information for Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. It's a significant global health problem, although its incidence has been declining in many developed countries.
 

Causes: The exact cause of stomach cancer isn't fully understood, but several risk factors are identified:

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection: This bacteria is a major risk factor, increasing the risk of both stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.
  • Diet: Diets low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed meats and salted foods are associated with increased risk. Smoking and alcohol consumption also play a role.
  • Genetics: A family history of stomach cancer increases risk. Specific genetic mutations can also predispose individuals.
  • Age: Risk increases significantly with age, with most cases occurring after age 50.
  • Achlorhydria: Lack of stomach acid production.
  • Certain medical conditions: Conditions like pernicious anemia (vitamin B12 deficiency) and atrophic gastritis (inflammation and thinning of the stomach lining) are linked to an increased risk.
  • Previous stomach surgery: A history of stomach surgery, especially for ulcers or polyps, may increase the risk.

Symptoms: Symptoms can be vague and often appear in later stages. They may include:

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort: Often described as a burning sensation or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen.
  • Indigestion or heartburn: Persistent and worsening indigestion or heartburn.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Recurring nausea and vomiting, possibly with blood.
  • Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss: Significant weight loss without trying.
  • Feeling full quickly after eating (early satiety): Difficulty eating full meals due to feeling full.
  • Bloating: Frequent bloating and abdominal distension.
  • Fatigue: Unexplained tiredness and weakness.
  • Anemia: Due to bleeding from the stomach.
  • Black or bloody stools (melena): Indicative of internal bleeding.
  • Vomiting blood (hematemesis): A serious sign of bleeding.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis typically involves:

  • Physical examination: A doctor will examine the abdomen and check for any abnormalities.
  • Endoscopy: A procedure using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to visualize the stomach lining. Biopsies may be taken during endoscopy.
  • Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound, to assess the extent of the cancer.
  • Blood tests: To check for anemia and other abnormalities.

Treatment: Treatment options depend on the stage and type of stomach cancer and may include:

  • Surgery: To remove the cancerous portion of the stomach.
  • Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
  • Radiation therapy: Using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
  • Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body's immune system to fight cancer cells.

Stomach Cancer Prevention:

While not all cases can be prevented, reducing risk factors such as H. pylori infection (through treatment and hygiene), maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and regular health checkups can help.
This information is for general knowledge only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
 



Tags: Biopsy Chemotherapy Endoscopy Gastric Cancer Helicobacter Pylori Pernicious Anemia Radiation Therapy Smoking Stomach Cancer Stomach Cancer Prevention Targeted Therapy 위암 Share on Facebook Share on X

◀ PREVIOUS
What about a second opinion for Colorectal Cancer?

▶ NEXT
Does it matter what time I use my medication?

  Comments 0
SIMILAR POSTS

Exploring Treatment Options for Bone Cancer: A Comprehensive Guide

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Understanding Radiation Therapy for Brain Tumors

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Understanding the Side Effects of Brain Tumor Treatment

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Exploring Chemotherapy: A Powerful Weapon Against Cancer

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Precision Treatment: Understanding Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Tumors

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Navigating the Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

Understanding the Risks Between Aging and Stomach Cancer

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

The Link Between Diet and Stomach Cancer

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

The Looming Threat: Stomach Cancer and its Ties to Tobacco and Alcohol Abuse

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

How Previous Stomach Surgery Might Increase Stomach Cancer Risk

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Balancing Act: Understanding the Side Effects of Biological Therapy in Stomach Cancer Treatment

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

What's new in endometrial cancer research and treatment?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Navigating Ovarian Cancer Treatment - Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Exploring Three Vulvar Cancer Treatments

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Side effects of vulvar cancer chemotherapy

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

How will a physician make a diagnosis of head and neck cancer?

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Exploring Treatment Options Beyond Surgery for Head and Neck Cancers

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

How is Hodgkin's disease diagnosed?

(created at May 22, 2009)

How is Hodgkin's disease treated?

(updated at Dec 13, 2024)

OTHER POSTS IN THE SAME CATEGORY

Sweet Relief: The Sugar Method for Hiccup Cure!

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Say Goodbye to Hiccups with the Stretch Method!

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

Sip Away Hiccups with the Straw Method!

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Cheers to Hiccup Relief: The Bartender's Remedy

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

The Natural Hiccup Remedy: Burp Your Way to Relief!

(updated at Dec 01, 2024)

Discover the Temple Method: A Quick Fix for Hiccups!

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

The 30 Seconds Cure for Hiccup

(created at May 03, 2009)

Sip, Plug, Repeat: The Drinking Method for Hiccup Relief

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

Focus Forward: Using Visual Distraction to Halt Hiccups

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Breathe Easy: Using Breath Control to Banish Hiccups!

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Keep Hiccups at Bay: Tips for Preventing Recurrence

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Demystifying Hiccups: Understanding the Causes Behind the Annoying Spasms

(updated at Mar 02, 2024)

Beyond the Hic: Exploring Associated Symptoms of Hiccups

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Understanding Hiccups: Unraveling the Mystery Behind the Spasms

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Does it matter what time I use my medication?

(created at May 03, 2009)

What about a second opinion for Colorectal Cancer?

(created at May 03, 2009)

How do you diagnose thyroid cancer?

(created at May 03, 2009)

The Mindset Shift: Embracing Confidence to Minimize Acne

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Dressing to Distract: Choosing Clothing to Minimize Acne

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Adornments That Distract: Using Jewelry to Minimize Acne

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Enhancing Your Natural Beauty: Makeup Tips for Minimizing Acne

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Elevate Your Look: Hairstyle Tips for Minimizing Acne

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Understanding Acne Medications: Options and Considerations

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Clearing Acne: The Importance of Gentle Cleansing

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Understanding Blackheads: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

(created at May 02, 2009)

Blood Pressure Machine Said I Have No Blood Pressure!?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

UPDATES

What is LASIK ?

(updated at Dec 21, 2024)

How soon could I expect to notice a change in human growth hormone?

(updated at Dec 21, 2024)

Things what you need to think when you will be in the layoff meeting

(updated at Dec 20, 2024)

Can growth hormone therapy be taken with other medication?

(updated at Dec 15, 2024)

Who should take Biological Therapy?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Side effects of human growth hormone

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Can aging be reversed by human growth hormone?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Does Lyme disease affect mental functioning?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Does other diseases accompany Lyme disease?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Is Lyme disease a New Illness?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

How prevalent is Lyme disease?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What are the commonest lyme disease symptoms at onset?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

How does Lyme disease start?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What is Lyme Disease?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Treatment for Lyme disease

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Recognizing Lyme Disease Symptoms in Humans: A Comprehensive Guide

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Unveiling the Role of the Deer Tick in Lyme Disease Cases

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Does chemical peeling or laser treatment work?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Are there clinical trials available for vulvar cancer?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Will I be able to adjust to Valva Cancer well?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Side effects of vulvar cancer chemotherapy

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Radiation therapy side effects of vulvar cancer

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia as risk factors for vulvar cancer

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What is ovarian cancer?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What's new in endometrial cancer research and treatment?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What should you ask your physician about endometrial cancer?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

How is endometrial cancer treated?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Can endometrial cancer be found early?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

Do we know what causes endometrial cancer?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)

What are the risk factors for endometrial cancer?

(updated at Dec 14, 2024)