Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers. It is the seventh most common cancer in India. About 64,000 cases are diagnosed each year. The dangerous thing is – this cancer does not show many symptoms in its early stages. That is why by the time most people notice it, it is already advanced. Daily habits are the main causes of stomach cancer. Dietary habits especially play a vital role. Frequent consumption of foods high in salt, smoked or baked dishes, and processed foods rich in preservatives increases the risk. A low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables reduces the ability of cells to repair themselves.
H. pylori infection:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection found in the stomach is one of the most common causes of gastric cancer. It constantly irritates the stomach wall and causes inflammation. If it is not treated in time, this inflammation can turn into ulcers and if it continues for years, there is a high risk of developing into cancer. This is why it is important to take appropriate antibiotic treatment as soon as H. pylori infection is detected. Smoking seriously damages stomach cells and doubles the risk. Similarly, excessive consumption of alcohol increases the risk. Obesity, lack of exercise, and hereditary risk also contribute to this cancer. If any of the first degree relatives have stomach cancer the chances are higher for the others. Also, people with mutations in genes such as CDH1 are more likely to develop cancer at a younger age.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer:
Symptoms are silent in the early stages and appear as minor problems like indigestion, gas, heartburn, feeling full even after eating little. More advanced symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, black stools, fatigue, and water retention in the abdomen. If these persist for more than two weeks, it is imperative to consult a doctor immediately.
Treatment options:
Treatment varies depending on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is most effective in the early stages. Robotic or laparoscopic techniques are also used. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be required in advanced stages. Advanced cases may also involve specialized treatments such as HIPEC. Targeted therapy, immunotherapy modern methods give good results with less side effects.
Prevention and precautions:
1.Although not all cases can be prevented, the risk of gastric cancer can be significantly reduced with proper habits.
2. Consuming fresh fruits, vegetables and nutritious food
3. Cutting down on high salt and processed foods
4. Stop smoking
5. Liquor control
6. Maintaining a healthy weight
If these precautions are followed, the chances of curing stomach cancer completely are very high. That is why it is important to take precautions.