What is Stomach Cancer?

It is a serious disease that occurs when the cells in the inner surface of the stomach multiply uncontrollably and form a tumor. It usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms in the early stages. For this reason, it is often noticed late. What is stomach cancer? The question is frequently asked by patients. This disease complicates the treatment process in the later stages.

What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?

It may not show any symptoms in the early stages and therefore may be difficult to diagnose. However, as the disease progresses, some symptoms begin to appear. It is very important to pay attention to these symptoms as early diagnosis increases the chance of success in cancer treatment.

One of the most common symptoms is persistent indigestion and heartburn. Bloating and discomfort may be experienced after eating.

It may be a symptom of an unexplained loss of appetite and sudden weight loss. In particular, the desire to eat decreases and the person constantly feels full.

As the cancer progresses, pain or discomfort may occur in the stomach and abdomen. The pain may be more pronounced, especially after meals.

Frequent nausea and vomiting are one of the symptoms. Blood in the vomit is also an important warning sign.

In advanced cancer, difficulty in swallowing food may occur. This is caused by the growth of the tumor in the passage between the esophagus and the stomach.

Black or tarry stools can be a sign of stomach bleeding. This can be associated with cancer. As a result of anemia in the body, constant weakness and fatigue can be felt.

Stomach cancer Symptoms may vary from person to person. If any of these symptoms persist for a long time, a specialist should be consulted. Early diagnosis increases treatment options and positively affects the course of the disease.

What is Stomach Cancer? What Causes It?

Stomach cancer occurs when cells in the lining of the stomach multiply uncontrollably. Over time, this uncontrolled proliferation leads to the formation of tumors. Tumors can spread to other parts of the body.

It usually progresses slowly. It may not show symptoms in its early stages. This leads to late diagnosis of the disease. The treatment process also becomes complicated for this reason. The exact cause is not known. However, some factors increase the risk of this disease.

Helicobacter pylori infection causes infection in the stomach mucosa. Long-term infection can cause stomach ulcers and stomach cancer.

The risk is higher in individuals with a family history. Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of the disease.

Excessive salt, smoked and processed foods increase the risk. Low consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables also increases the risk. Smoking causes irritation in the stomach lining. Excessive alcohol consumption also increases the risk of cancer.

Cancer is usually seen in individuals over the age of 50. It is more common in men than in women. Long-term conditions such as chronic gastritis increase the risk. Stomach polyps can also pave the way for stomach cancer.

What is stomach cancer? The question is worrying for many people. It is possible to reduce these risks with a healthy lifestyle and regular checkups.

Stomach Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment is determined by the stage of the disease, the patient's general health status, and the type of cancer. Treatment methods can often be combined and are adapted to the patient's needs. Early-diagnosed cancer has a higher success rate.

Surgery is one of the most common treatment methods. It aims to remove cancerous tissue and some of the surrounding healthy tissue. The type of surgery depends on the location and spread of the cancer. In the early stages, the tumor and part of the stomach may be removed. In advanced stages, the entire stomach may need to be removed.

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be used before surgery to shrink a tumor or to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery. In some cases, it is also used to control advanced disease.

Radiotherapy aims to kill cancer cells using high-energy rays. It is usually used in conjunction with chemotherapy. It may be used to shrink a tumor before surgery or to destroy remaining cells after surgery. Radiotherapy can also help relieve pain and other symptoms.

Targeted therapy targets only cancer cells. It does less damage to healthy cells. This treatment method is applied according to the type and characteristics of the cancer. Targeted drugs work by targeting specific molecules that cause cancer to grow.

Immunotherapy is used to activate the body's immune system against cancer cells. It is a preferred method especially in advanced stages.

Treatment options are determined specifically for the patient. Early diagnosis provides a significant advantage in the fight against cancer. What is stomach cancer? is a frequently asked question in this process. The success rate increases when appropriate treatment is applied.