Cancer care
Stomach Cancer
Overview
What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, develops from the lining of the stomach. The most prevalent form—adenocarcinoma—is accountable for 90–95% of all cases and develops in the glandular cells that produce mucus and digestive juices. These cancers are also divided into two broad subtypes: intestinal, which tends to form gland-like structures and is often associated with environmental factors; and diffuse, which is more aggressive in character and often associated with genetic mutations.
Stomach Cancer Types
Adenocarcinoma (90–95%)
- Includes intestinal and diffuse types.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
- Arise from the stomach's connective tissue.
Lymphomas
- Cancers involving the immune system, rarely presenting in the lining of the stomach.
Carcinoid Tumors
- Arise from hormone-secreting cells of the stomach.
Stomach Cancer Symptoms
Frequent or long-lasting indigestion or heartburn that does not improve with over-the-counter medications.
What’s Notable
- The fifth most common cancer globally
- The fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths globally.
- In 2022, there were over 1 million new cases and approximately 770,000 deaths.
When to Seek Help
You should seek medical help if you have persistent symptoms such as ongoing indigestion or heartburn that does not improve, unexplained weight loss, stomach pain or discomfort, difficulty swallowing, vomiting (especially if blood is present), black or tarry stools, or abdominal swelling. If these symptoms last more than two to three weeks or worsen, especially in combination, timely evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Stomach Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection
A major cause of chronic gastritis and gastric cancer development.
Diet
Overindulgence in smoked, salted, and pickled food; poor fruit and vegetable consumption.
High Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Heavy smoking and heavy alcohol use can almost double the risk.
Family History and Genetics
Lynch syndrome genetic conditions increase susceptibility.
Chronic Stomach Illnesses
Ulcers, gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and obesity—specifically abdominal obesity.
Exposure in Work Life
Exposure to poisonous substances in coal, metal, and rubber manufacturing.
Stomach Cancer Diagnosis
Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Step 1: Initial Symptoms & Check-up
Symptoms: stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, weight loss.
Action: Physical exam, medical history review.
Stomach Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
- What it does
- Kills rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body.
- Common drugs
- Cisplatin, Fluorouracil (5-FU), Oxaliplatin.
- Side effects
- Nausea, fatigue, hair loss, low blood counts.
Targeted Therapy
- What it does
- Blocks specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Common drugs
- Trastuzumab (Herceptin), Ramucirumab.
- Side effects
- Fatigue, high blood pressure, bleeding.
Immunotherapy
- What it does
- Boosts the immune system to attack cancer cells.
- Common drugs
- Pembrolizumab (Keytruda).
- Side effects
- Fatigue, skin rash, inflammation of organs.
Management & Prevention
Rest and Healing
- Allow your body to recover after treatment, whether surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
Gradual Activity
- Begin with light activities and slowly increase your physical exercise as tolerated to restore strength.
Nutrition
- Focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support healing, manage side effects, and maintain energy.
Symptom Management
- Work closely with your healthcare team to address symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or pain.
Why Choose Everhope Stomach Cancer?
At Everhope Oncology, we see prostate cancer as more than a diagnosis; it’s a unique journey. With expert care, empathy, and the latest treatments, we stand with you at every step, guiding you toward strength, hope, and healing.
- 55K
- New cases of were diagnosed in India
- 48K
- Individuals lost their lives due to stomach cancer.
- 3rd
- Most common reason for cancer deaths among men is stomach cancer.
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Questions
FAQs on Stomach Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
What are the early symptoms of stomach cancer?
Persistent indigestion, bloating after meals, nausea, stomach pain, early fullness, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, black or tarry stools, loss of appetite, and difficulty swallowing.
What causes stomach cancer?
Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, diets high in smoked or salty foods, family history, and certain genetic conditions.
How is stomach cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves endoscopy, biopsy, imaging tests (CT, PET scans), and blood tests to determine the presence and extent of cancer.
Is stomach cancer curable?
Early-stage stomach cancer is potentially curable with surgery and additional therapies, but advanced cancer has a lower cure rate; treatment focuses on quality of life.
What treatments are available for stomach cancer?
Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy depending on cancer stage and patient health.
Can stomach cancer be prevented?
Reducing risk involves avoiding smoking, managing Helicobacter pylori infection, eating a healthy diet, and regular medical check-ups if at high risk.
Find a Hospital Near You
Everhope x SSO Hospital, Ghatkopar West
Silver Point, 7th Floor, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, Kasturi Park, Ghatkopar West, Mumbai 400086
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Clinic 51, 4th Floor, Shanti Center, Sector 17, Vashi, Navi Mumbai 400703
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9th Floor, Mehta Mahal, 15 Mathew Road, Opera House, Charni Road (East), Mumbai 400004
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Everhope x SRCC Hospital, Haji Ali
1-1A, Keshavrao Khadye Marg, Haji Ali, Haji Ali Government Colony, Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400034
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Everhope x EPIC Hospital, Ahmedabad
Rajpath Rangoli Road, behind Rajpath Club, off S.G. Highway, Bodakdev, Ahmedabad 380059
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Everhope Hospital, Gurugram (Sector 65)
EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road
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Everhope Hospital, Gurugram (Sector 14)
Mehrauli-Gurgaon Rd, Anamika Enclave, Sector 14
Mon to Sat, 9am to 6pm
Everhope x SSO Hospital, Belgaum
9666A-2/D, behind BUDA Office, Ashok Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Belgaum 590016
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