Cancer cases are increasing rapidly across the world including India. While earlier cancer was considered a disease of elderly people, now its cases are increasingly being reported among young and middle-aged people as well.
Experts say that the biggest danger of cancer is that its initial symptoms are often so common that people ignore them, mistaking them for gas, indigestion or general stomach trouble. This carelessness sometimes takes the disease to a serious stage.
One of these cancers is Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer). This disease gives very few symptoms in the initial stage, but if not identified and treated in time, it can rapidly spread to other parts of the body. Experts say that if early signs are taken seriously and timely testing is done, then in many cases better treatment is possible.
What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer occurs when cells in the inner lining of the stomach start growing abnormally. Gradually these cells can take the form of a tumor and over time can spread to other parts of the body.
This disease develops slowly and sometimes its symptoms are not visible in the initial years. This is why most patients approach the doctor when the disease has progressed significantly.
Why does stomach cancer occur?
According to experts, stomach cancer can occur due to many reasons.
The most prominent reasons include:
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smoking
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excessive alcohol consumption
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Excessive salt and processed food intake
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chronic unhealthy eating habits
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obesity
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family history
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growing old
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Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection called
According to doctors, H. pylori infection can cause changes in stomach cells over a long period of time, which can increase the risk of cancer in some people.
However, it is not necessary that every person with H. pylori infection develops stomach cancer.
What do doctors say?
Gastroenterology experts say that the initial symptoms of stomach cancer often resemble normal gas, acidity or indigestion.
For this reason, people keep trying home remedies for months and reach the doctor late.
Experts recommend that if these symptoms persist or return repeatedly, it is important to seek medical attention.
These initial signs can be seen in case of stomach cancer
1. Bloating after eating
If the stomach starts bloating abnormally every time after eating food and this problem persists, then it should not be ignored considering it to be normal gas.
2. Feeling full after eating a little
If the stomach feels completely full even after eating very little food, it can be a possible early sign of stomach cancer.
3. Loss of appetite
Sudden loss of appetite or loss of desire to eat is also considered an important symptom.
4. Constant heartburn
Sometimes acidity is normal, but if the burning sensation in the chest persists and does not provide relief even with medicines, then a doctor should be consulted.
5. Frequent indigestion
If the problem of indigestion persists for a long time and food is not digested easily, then it should be examined.
6. Nausea
Feeling persistently nauseous or having nausea for no apparent reason can also be a sign of a serious stomach related illness.
7. Frequent vomiting
If vomiting is happening repeatedly, especially after eating, then it should not be taken lightly.
8. Sudden weight loss
Rapid weight loss without dieting or exercise can be a sign of many serious diseases, including cancer.
9. Constant fatigue
If you always feel weak and tired despite adequate rest, it can be a sign of some serious problem in the body.
10. Black stool
Black stool can sometimes be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract. In such a situation, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Which people are more at risk?
Some people may have a higher risk of stomach cancer than normal people.
As:
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over 50 years of age
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smokers
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heavy drinker
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obese people
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Family history of stomach cancer
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Long-term H. pylori infection
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consumption of highly processed and salty foods
However, the presence of these risk factors does not prove that a person will definitely get cancer.
When to go to the doctor immediately?
If the following symptoms persist for more than two to three weeks, it is important to seek medical advice:
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persistent stomach pain
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unexplained weight loss
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persistent vomiting
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difficulty swallowing
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vomit blood
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black stool
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extreme weakness
The doctor may recommend endoscopy, biopsy, CT scan or other tests depending on the patient’s condition.
Can stomach cancer be cured?
Experts say that if stomach cancer is detected in its early stages, the chances of success of treatment increase significantly.
Treatment depends on the stage of the disease.
Treatment may include:
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surgery
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Chemotherapy
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radiotherapy
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targeted therapy
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Immunotherapy (in some cases)
Oncologists decide which treatment is appropriate based on the patient’s test report and the stage of the disease.
How to protect?
Although cancer cannot be completely prevented in every case, certain habits can help reduce the risk.
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Avoid smoking.
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Limit alcohol consumption.
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Eat more fresh fruits and green vegetables.
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Eat less excessively salty and processed foods.
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Exercise regularly.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
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If stomach problems persist for a long time, get checked by a doctor.
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In case of H. pylori infection, get complete treatment as per medical advice.
Stomach cancer is a serious disease, but it does not mean that every person who has stomach pain, gas, indigestion or heartburn is suffering from cancer. Such symptoms can also occur due to many common and less serious reasons. However, if these problems persist, return repeatedly, or are accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, black stools or persistent vomiting, they should not be ignored.
Timely consultation with a doctor, proper diagnosis and early detection can significantly improve the chances of treatment. Therefore, instead of dismissing any persistent symptoms as just a normal stomach problem, the safest step is to consult a specialist.