Cancer of the stomach, also known as gastric cancer, refers to the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells within the lining of the stomach. It is a highly aggressive and potentially life-threatening malignancy that affects the stomach, a crucial organ involved in the digestion and storage of food.
Stomach cancer typically develops in the innermost layer of the stomach wall, known as the mucosa, but can spread to other layers and nearby lymph nodes if left untreated. The exact cause of stomach cancer remains unknown, but certain risk factors, such as infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, a diet high in salted foods and smoked meats, smoking, obesity, and a family history of the disease, have been linked to its development.
Early stages of stomach cancer may not present noticeable symptoms, but as the disease progresses, common signs and symptoms may include persistent abdominal pain, indigestion, heartburn, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, bloating, and blood in the stool.
Diagnosis of cancer of the stomach involves a variety of tests, including imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) scans and endoscopy, where a slender tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the stomach lining. Biopsies may also be performed to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Treatment options for stomach cancer depend on the stage of the disease but generally include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The prognosis for patients with cancer of the stomach largely depends on the stage at diagnosis, overall health, and response to treatment.
