Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, develops when cells in the stomach lining grow abnormally and uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can form a tumor and may spread if not addressed. While “stad cancer” is a common misspelling, the correct term is stomach cancer or gastric cancer. It is a serious global health concern, recognized as the fifth most common cancer worldwide.
Understanding Stomach Cancer Types and Risk Factors
Stomach cancer primarily manifests as adenocarcinoma, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of all cases. This type originates in the glandular cells of the stomach’s inner lining that produce mucus. Adenocarcinomas are further categorized as gastric cardia cancer (beginning in the upper stomach near the esophagus) or non-cardia gastric cancer (developing in other stomach regions).
The appearance of cancerous cells under a microscope also classifies adenocarcinomas as intestinal or diffuse. Intestinal types have cells that closely resemble normal cells, while diffuse types feature cells that do not, often indicating a more aggressive, rapidly spreading cancer. Other less common types of stomach cancer include gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), arising from specific cells in the stomach wall, and gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors.
Several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing stomach cancer. Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria is a significant risk factor, contributing to a notable percentage of stomach cancers. This bacterium can cause stomach inflammation and ulcers, potentially leading to cancer. Dietary habits also play a role; diets high in salt-preserved foods (e.g., salted fish, cured meats, pickled vegetables) and low in fresh fruits and vegetables are associated with increased risk.
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also elevate the risk. Smoking can double the risk of stomach cancer and may reduce the effectiveness of H. pylori treatment. Obesity is another contributing factor, particularly for cancers in the upper stomach near the esophagus. Additional risk factors include a family history of stomach cancer, certain genetic conditions like hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome, chronic stomach inflammation, and pernicious anemia.
Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis
Recognizing stomach cancer symptoms can be challenging as early signs are often vague and easily mistaken for less serious conditions. Common initial symptoms include indigestion, heartburn, and a persistent feeling of fullness after small meals. Individuals might also experience unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia, can also occur.
If these symptoms persist or worsen, medical evaluation is recommended. Diagnosis typically begins with an endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera visualizes the stomach lining. During this procedure, a biopsy is often performed, taking tissue samples from suspicious areas for microscopic examination to confirm cancer.
After diagnosis, imaging tests determine cancer extent and spread, a process called staging. Tests include computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and sometimes endoscopic ultrasound. These techniques help doctors assess if cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs, crucial for planning effective treatment.
Treatment Approaches
Stomach cancer treatment is highly individualized, often combining modalities based on cancer stage, location, and patient health. Surgery is a primary treatment option, especially for localized cancer. A common surgical procedure is gastrectomy, involving removal of part or all of the stomach. Removal extent depends on tumor size and location.
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can be administered before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to eliminate remaining cells, or as a primary treatment for advanced cancer. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells in a targeted area. It can be used alone or with chemotherapy to enhance effects, particularly when cancer has spread locally.
Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules involved in cancer growth and progression. These drugs block pathways cancer cells use to grow and divide, often with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. These treatments help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells it might otherwise ignore. The specific combination and sequence of these treatments are determined by a multidisciplinary team of specialists (including surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologists) to create a tailored plan for each patient.
Prevention and Early Detection
Adopting lifestyle changes can significantly reduce stomach cancer risk. Dietary modifications are impactful, such as increasing fresh fruit and vegetable consumption. Conversely, reducing processed meats, smoked foods, and highly salted foods is advised. These adjustments help minimize exposure to potential carcinogens.
Quitting smoking is an important preventive measure, as tobacco use is a known stomach cancer risk factor. Limiting alcohol consumption also lowers the risk. Addressing H. pylori infections with antibiotics is another proactive step, especially since this bacterium is strongly linked to stomach cancer.
Beyond prevention, early detection is key for improving outcomes. Awareness of subtle, early stomach cancer symptoms, such as persistent indigestion or unexplained weight loss, is important. Prompt medical consultation when these symptoms arise allows for timely diagnosis, leading to earlier intervention and more effective treatment. Regular medical check-ups are also beneficial, particularly for those with elevated risk factors.