Stomach Cancer Symptoms: All You Need to Know

Overview

Gastric or stomach cancer is the 5th most common cancer in India and is still among the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Gastric cancer occurs when cancerous cells grow within the lining of the stomach. And to treat such cancers, early diagnosis plays a crucial role. Early-stage stomach cancers rarely cause any symptoms. And in a country like India, where screening for stomach cancer is not done routinely, stomach cancers are not found until they have spread outside the stomach. Keep reading to learn more about stomach cancer symptoms in detail.

What causes stomach cancer?

Though the exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, there are some risk factors, particularly diet and lifestyle.

A diet high in smoked or salted foods, processed meat, and low in vegetables is a risk factor for stomach cancer, as is drinking alcohol and smoking. Helicobacter pylori, a microorganism that infects the stomach lining, also plays a role in cancer development.

Some non-cancerous conditions in the stomach, such as sores or cell overgrowth in the inner lining, can occur before cancer. Finally, some hereditary conditions can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

What are the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer?

As per our expert oncologists, the following are the signs and symptoms associated with stomach cancer, including:

• Appetite problems
• Loss of weight (without trying)
• Pain in the abdomen (belly).
• Uncertain abdominal pain, usually above the navel
• Feeling satisfied after only a small meal
• Indigestion or heartburn
• Nausea
• Vomiting, whether with or without blood
• Swelling or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Feeling tired or weak
• If cancer spreads to the liver, it causes yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).

Most of these symptoms are caused by things other than stomach cancer, such as a viral infection or an ulcer. Other types of cancer may also cause some of these symptoms. However, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, people should consult a doctor so that the underlying cause can be identified and treated, if necessary.

What are the risk factors associated with stomach cancer?

There are several factors that might increase the risk of developing stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is common in:

• Older adults, typically in their 60s, and older men who smoke
• Overweight or obese people

While your medical history may influence your risk of stomach cancer, certain lifestyle factors may also be necessary. If you do any of the following, you may be more likely to develop stomach cancer:

• Consume an abundance of salty or processed foods
• Don’t cook or store food in a proper way
• Frequently consume meat
• Fruit is rarely or never consumed.
• Consume a large amount of alcohol (at least three drinks per day) and smoke regularly
• Do not get enough physical activity

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of stomach cancer treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout the treatment. Our health trip advisors will be physically present with you even before the treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangement for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

We are dedicated to offering the highest quality health travel services to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health trip advisors who will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.