STOMACH CANCER

Although stomach cancer can be seen at any age, it occurs more frequently in certain groups due to risk factors: 🟦 Individuals aged 50 and over 🟦 Those with a family history of stomach cancer 🟦 Those who smoke and drink alcohol 🟦 Those who carry the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria 🟦 Those who eat salty, smoked and processed foods

Stomach cancer may not show any obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, the following symptoms may occur in later stages: 🟦 Loss of appetite and rapid weight loss 🟦 Stomach pain and indigestion 🟦 Constant heartburn and bloating 🟦 Difficulty swallowing 🟦 Nausea and vomiting 🟦 Blood in the stool or black stools 🟦 Chronic fatigue and weakness. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor without delay.

The methods used to diagnose stomach cancer are as follows: 🟦 Endoscopy: Imaging the inner surface of the stomach with a special camera. 🟦 Biopsy: Examination of a tissue sample taken during endoscopy in a laboratory. 🟦 Computerized Tomography (CT) and Magnetic 🟦 Resonance Imaging (MRI): Used to assess the spread of cancer. 🟦 Blood Tests: Done to detect certain tumor markers.

Stomach cancer is evaluated in four stages according to its progression: 🟦 Stage 1: Cancer is limited to the inner surface of the stomach and has not spread. 🟦 Stage 2: Cancer has advanced deep into the stomach wall and may have spread to some lymph nodes. 🟦 Stage 3: Cancer has reached the outer layers of the stomach and has spread to more lymph nodes. 🟦 Stage 4: Cancer has metastasized to distant organs (liver, lungs, etc.).

Yes, stomach cancer can be treated. However, the success of the treatment depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. The chance of cure is much higher for stomach cancers detected at an early stage.

The treatment plan is determined according to the stage of the disease and the patient's general health. The main treatment methods are: ✅ Surgical Treatment 🟦 Partial Gastrectomy: Removal of the cancerous section of the stomach. 🟦 Total Gastrectomy: Complete removal of the stomach and rearrangement of the digestive system. ✅ Chemotherapy 🟦 Drug treatment is applied to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. 🟦 It is usually applied before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant). ✅ Radiotherapy (Radiation Therapy) 🟦 Cancer cells are targeted and shrunk with high-energy rays. ✅ Targeted Therapies 🟦 Tumor development can be stopped with drugs that specifically affect cancer cells. ✅ Immunotherapy 🟦 It is a modern treatment method that strengthens the immune system and enables it to fight cancer cells.

Although it is not possible to completely prevent stomach cancer, you can follow these steps to reduce your risk: 🟦 Eat Healthy: Avoid processed, smoked and overly salty foods. 🟦 Stay Away from Smoking and Alcohol: These substances can damage your digestive system. 🟦 Get Checked for H. Pylori Infection: If you carry this bacteria, you can reduce your risk by having it treated. 🟦 Get Regular Health Checks: Early diagnosis is especially important for people at risk of stomach cancer.

It is important for patients undergoing stomach cancer treatment to pay attention to their diet: 🟦 Eat small and frequent meals. 🟦 Prefer protein-rich and light foods. 🟦 Avoid sugary and fatty foods. 🟦 Drink plenty of water and try to consume foods that are easy to digest.