Stomach Cancer, the Invisible Disease That Can Affect Everyone

Among all cancers, gastric or stomach cancer is the most insidious and complex disease. Referred to by many as the silent threat, this type of disease can develop for a long time with no symptoms, which makes it very hard to diagnose and treat. Its extent encompasses different groups of people regardless of socioeconomic status, sex, or any particular kind of lifestyle; hence, it requires early awareness.

Through the course of this article, we go in-depth to look at its causes, warning signs, treatment options available, and simple ways everyone can defend themselves against the potentially fatal disease.

What is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer is a product of unhealthy cell growth in the lining of the stomach, developing tumours. There are several types of gastric cancer, but the most frequent is adenocarcinoma, which originates in the glandular tissue of the stomach's inner lining. Though this disease is more common in people over 50 years of age, it can affect a person of any age.

The progression of stomach cancer can be slow, giving the disease an insidious nature. Unfortunately, symptoms often appear late, complicating early diagnosis.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact causes of stomach cancer are not fully understood, several risk factors can contribute to its development:

1. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infections
This bacterium is one of the most common causes of chronic infection of the stomach, known as gastritis. If left untreated, the infection can lead to ulcers in the stomach and increase the risk of cancer.

2. Diet
A diet high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods puts one at risk for gastric cancer. On the contrary, a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect.

3. Genetic Factors
A family history of gastric cancer or hereditary genetic syndromes will also raise the risk.

4. Alcohol and Tobacco Use
Excessive use of tobacco and alcohol is directly proportional to the high chance of this disease.

5. Other Medical Conditions

Other diseases, such as pernicious anaemia and gastric polyps, can raise the risk for stomach cancer.
Warning Signs

The symptoms of stomach cancer can vary depending on the disease’s progression. Here are some warning signs that should not be ignored:

• Persistent Abdominal Pain: A constant sensation of pain or discomfort in the stomach area.
• Loss of Appetite and Unexplained Weight Loss: Common early indicators.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Sometimes accompanied by blood.
• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): A frequent symptom in advanced stages.
• Chronic Fatigue: Caused by anaemia from internal bleeding.

As these symptoms are often associated with other gastric issues, it is necessary to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Screening

Early detection of stomach cancer considerably improves the chance of effective treatment. The following are the major tests:

• Upper Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the stomach to inspect the lining and collect tissue samples (biopsy).
• Medical Imaging: Techniques such as CT scans to detect tumours.
  Blood Tests: To recognize certain tumour markers.

Available Treatments

The treatment of stomach cancer is based on the stages of the disease, the age of the patient, and overall physical condition. 

These are the main options available:

1. Surgery

Removal of tumour or even partial or total gastrectomy where the cancer seems to be concentrated in a very small area in the stomach.

2. Chemotherapy

Pre-operative or post-operative treatment is intended to kill tumour cells to reduce the potential for recurrence.

3. Radiotherapy

This treatment uses radiation to shrink tumours.

4. Targeted Therapies
These novel treatments target genetic defects in cancerous cells, slowing their proliferation.

• Prevention

Stomach cancer cannot always be prevented, but there are some methods to significantly lower the risk:

• Eat a Healthy Diet

Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fibre, keeping processed, salty, and smoked foods at bay.

• Quit Smoking

Tobacco is among the leading factors for several cancers, including stomach cancer.

• Reduce Alcohol Intake

Moderate drinking reduces the risk.

Treat H. pylori Infection in Time
If this infection is diagnosed, an antibiotic course should be taken in time to avoid future complications.

Screen Regularly
Consult your doctor for regular preventive check-ups, as you have a family history or other risk factors.

The serious nature of stomach cancer, though affecting anyone, can be minimised in risk through better lifestyle choices and heightened vigilance. Most obviously, early symptoms put patients in a position to seek appropriate treatment and improve their chances of recovery. The key lies in raising awareness and educating people about this silent yet potentially fatal disease.

Take good care of your health, and if symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Prevention and early detection save lives.