Emergency Number
Stomach cancer is one of the most common cancers in India particularly in northeastern parts of India. Hospital-based data from Mizoram shows around 30 percent of the admitted cancer patients suffering from gastric cancers.
Alike other cancers symptoms of stomach cancer are not apparent in the beginning and are similar to symptoms like common health conditions like flu and more. The symptoms of stomach cancer include –
Unexplained Weight loss
Abdominal Pain
Nausea and vomiting
Discomfort in the area above the belly button
Bloating post small meals
Indigestion and heartburn
Anemia
Blood in stool
As you can see, the aforementioned symptoms aren’t really a reliable indication of cancer. A stomach virus or ulcer could also have these symptoms. The indicative symptoms only occur once the cancer is at an advanced stage.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for stomach cancer include the genetic history of cancer and smoking as well. Helicobacter Pylori bacterium infection is also one of the major causes of stomach cancer. Having said that, though many people who do have the germ inside them do not get cancer.
Treatment is based on the diagnosis and could involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Usually, the treatment involves either curing the condition if it is in the early stages or controlling or relieving the symptoms. If the objective is cure then the treatment also concentrates on relieving the side effects. If the objective is to keep cancer under control, the treatment involves relieving symptoms that affect the quality of life like eating problems, pain, and bleeding. A second opinion is always advisable when it is about cancer.
Though cancer is not preventable as such what you can do is only manage the risk factors through a balanced diet rich in fiber and citrus fruits, exercise, and physical activity.
