Gastric cancer

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a disease where malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. It's more common in older individuals, with over half of those diagnosed being 75 or older. In the UK, it's not a very common cancer, but it's important to get any potential symptoms checked promptly.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of gastric cancer can be subtle and may not appear until the cancer is advanced. Some common symptoms include:

• Persistent indigestion or heartburn

• Feeling full quickly after eating small amounts of food

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Stomach pain, particularly in the upper or middle abdomen

• Bloating after eating

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue

• Blood in the stool or black, tar-like stools

• Difficulty swallowing

Causes and Risk Factors:

While the exact cause of gastric cancer isn't fully understood, several factors can increase the risk:

• Age: The risk increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 55.

• Helicobacter pylori infection: Infection with this bacterium is a major risk factor.

• Diet: A diet high in smoked, pickled, and salted foods, and low in fruits and vegetables, may increase risk.

• Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor.

• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk.

• Family history: A family history of stomach cancer can increase risk.

• Certain inherited genetic conditions: Conditions like hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) can increase risk.

• Chronic gastritis: Chronic inflammation of the stomach lining can be a risk factor.

• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

· Diagnosis:

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (using a scope to examine the stomach) is the most common method for diagnosis. Biopsies are taken during the endoscopy to check for cancerous cells.

· Treatment:

Treatment options vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the individual's overall health. Common treatments include surgery (to remove the tumor), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy