Understanding Gastric (Stomach) Cancer
Gastric (Stomach) Cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells within the lining of the stomach. It typically starts in the mucosa, the innermost layer of the stomach, and can spread to other parts of the stomach and nearby organs if not detected and treated early.
Side Effects of Gastric (Stomach) Cancer
Patients with Gastric Cancer may experience various symptoms depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Common side effects include:
- Digestive Problems: Such as indigestion, bloating, and discomfort after eating.
- Unintended Weight Loss: Often due to difficulty in eating or reduced appetite.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
- Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells, causing fatigue and weakness.
- Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain or discomfort in the stomach area.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Especially after meals or throughout the day.
How is Gastric (Stomach) Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests, endoscopy, and biopsy:
- Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to examine the stomach lining directly.
- Biopsy: During endoscopy, tissue samples (biopsies) are taken from suspicious areas for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
- Imaging Tests: Such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be used to determine the extent (stage) of cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Potential Treatment of Gastric (Stomach) Cancer
The treatment plan for Gastric Cancer depends on several factors including the stage of cancer, location, and the patient's overall health. Common treatments may include:
- Surgery: To remove the cancerous part of the stomach (partial gastrectomy) or the entire stomach (total gastrectomy).
- Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
- Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors, often used in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy.
- Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Newer treatments that target specific molecules within cancer cells or boost the body's immune system to fight cancer cells more effectively.
