Stomach (gastric) cancer results from the growth of malignant cells in the lining of the stomach. More than 90 percent of stomach cancers are adenocarcinomas, arising from cells lining the stomach wall; lymphomas account for 3 to 7 percent of stomach cancers (see Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin's). For unknown reasons, the incidence of stomach cancer has decreased dramatically in the United States in the last 50 years; dietary factors and the refrigeration of foods (which has decreased the need for chemical preservatives) are thought to play roles in the decline. Adenocarcinomas often cause symptoms only after growing too large to be completely removed surgically; hence, early detection greatly increases the chances that treatment may be initiated in time.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
No symptoms in most cases of small, surgically
curable stomach cancers.
Stomach discomfort or pain after meals that is
not relieved by soothing foods or antacids.
Loss of appetite and weight.
Nausea and vomiting.
Gas, heartburn, regurgitation, and belching.
Abdominal fullness or bloating.
Difficulty in swallowing.
Weakness and fatigue.
Anemia due to gastrointestinal bleeding.
Black, tarry stools (due to bleeding).
What Causes Stomach Cancer
Although the cause of stomach tumors is unknown, environmental factors appear to play a role. Geographic areas where colorectal cancer is common (such as the United States) often have a low incidence of stomach cancer.
Consumption of foods containing nitrates or nitrites (chemicals commonly used in processed foods as preservatives) may increase stomach cancer risk. Salty, pickled, barbecued, or smoked foods are believed to pose the highest risk. Low consumption of vegetables and fruits may also raise risk.
Surgical removal of a portion of the stomach (gastrectomy), chronic inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis), and pernicious anemia increase the odds of developing stomach cancer.
Hereditary factors may be implicated: For reasons that are unknown, there is a higher incidence of stomach cancers among people with type-A blood.
Infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori has also been associated with gastric cancer, particularly in those infected at a young age.
A type of lymphoma called MALT is linked to infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.
Prevention of Stomach Cancer
Limit intake of salty, pickled, and smoked foods and increase consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Have regular checkups, especially a test for blood in the stool, to aid in early detection and treatment.
Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer
Patient history and physical examination.
Stool samples. Microscopic traces of blood in the stool may indicate digestive tract tumors.
Tumors can be detected with x-rays done after the patient swallows barium to highlight the stomach.
Gastroscopy must be performed, in which a thin, flexible, viewing tube (gastroscope) is passed into the stomach via the throat. During gastroscopy, biopsy of the stomach lining may be taken.
How To Treat Stomach Cancer
Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible is the primary treatment. Part or all of the stomach, nearby lymph nodes, the pancreas, and the spleen may also be removed if it is suspected that cancer may have spread to these sites.
Radiation therapy may be administered instead of or in addition to surgery to relieve pain and bleeding.
Survival rates for lymphomas of the stomach are improved with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. In MALT, treatment with certain antibiotics and stomach acid inhibitors (such as omeprazole) can result in complete tumor regression.
When To Call A Doctor
Make an appointment with a doctor if you develop any symptoms of stomach cancer.
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Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to substitute for the advice of a physician.
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