Stomach Cancer

Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that poses a significant health problem worldwide. 

This type of cancer, which can be seen in both men and women, usually starts in the cells in the lining of the stomach and can progress to various stages over time. Risk factors for stomach cancer include genetic factors, Helicobacter pylori infection, eating habits, and age.

The incidence of stomach cancer worldwide varies according to geographical regions. It is seen at higher rates, especially in regions such as Asia and South America. The reason for these differences includes regional variations in genetic factors, eating habits, and infection risk.

What is Stomach Cancer Treatment?

Stomach cancer treatment usually includes various methods such as surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, treatment success varies depending on the patient's general health status, stage, and type of cancer. Raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis in the fight against stomach cancer worldwide plays an important role in reducing the effects of this disease.

What are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?

Symptoms of stomach cancer may not usually be evident in the early stages, so the disease can often be diagnosed in advanced stages. However, some symptoms may indicate stomach cancer and it is important to know about these symptoms. Generally, symptoms of stomach cancer may include:

• Indigestion and Stomach Pain: Stomach cancer can cause constant pain or discomfort in the abdomen. This pain usually occurs due to a tumour in the stomach.
• Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite: Stomach cancer can often cause loss of appetite and weight loss. These symptoms may occur as a result of the body losing energy while fighting cancer.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Stomach cancer can affect normal digestive processes within the stomach, which can cause nausea and vomiting.
• Bloody Stools or Vomiting: Advanced stomach cancer can damage the blood vessels within the stomach, which can lead to bloody stools or vomiting.
• Weakness and Fatigue: General weakness and weakness, which are common in cancer patients, may also be among the symptoms of stomach cancer.

What Causes Stomach Cancer?

The causes of stomach cancer depend on various factors that interact in a complex way. These factors can be genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related. The bacterium called Helicobacter pylori can settle on the lining of the stomach, irritating the stomach wall and increasing the risk of stomach cancer in the long term. This bacterium can cause stomach problems such as chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer.

Stomach cancer usually occurs in middle and old age. With the aging process, the repair ability of cells decreases, which can increase the risk of cancer formation. Genetic factors may play a role in individuals with a family history of stomach cancer. Certain genetic mutations may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Excessive consumption of salty, smoked or pickled foods may increase the risk of stomach cancer. At the same time, consumption of small amounts of fruit and vegetables can also increase the risk.

On the other hand, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of stomach cancer. These substances can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause carcinogenic effects. In addition, long-term stomach inflammations (chronic gastritis) and stomach ulcers can increase the risk of stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori infection can trigger these conditions.

What are the Types of Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer includes several subtypes that originate from different cell types and are classified according to anatomical sites. These types are usually based on histopathological features and the source of the cells. Here is detailed information about the types of stomach cancer:

Adenocarcinoma: It is the most common type of stomach cancer and originates from gland cells in the lining of the stomach. It usually starts in the gastric mucosa and accounts for most cases of stomach cancer.

Mucous Adenocarcinoma: In this type, tumor cells can produce mucus. Mucous adenocarcinoma is a special subtype of adenocarcinoma originating from cells of the mucosal layer.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type of gastric cancer originates from surface cells in the gastric mucosa. However, it is more rare than adenocarcinoma.

Linitis Plastika: This particular type represents a diffuse type of adenocarcinoma that causes hardening and thickening of the connective tissue in the stomach wall. It can affect large areas of the stomach wall and cause a "mushy" appearance.

Stomach Sarcomas: Sarcomas are rare types of stomach cancer that originate from connective tissue or muscle cells in the stomach wall. Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) is an example of this group.

Endocrine Tumours: Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) are a rare type arising from endocrine cells within the stomach.

Each type of gastric cancer has different characteristics, growth rates, and responses to treatment. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment processes may include customized approaches according to the type.

How is Stomach Cancer Treatment Performed?

The surgical method is frequently used in the treatment of stomach cancer. This operation aims to remove the tumor and, if necessary, remove the surrounding lymph nodes. Surgery is performed within a predetermined strategy depending on the stage of cancer. Chemotherapy aims to destroy cancer cells with drugs. It can be used in the treatment of stomach cancer before or after surgery, in combination with radiotherapy, or metastatic cases. Chemotherapy is usually administered in a series of sessions. You can contact Medwide for more information.