Gastric Cancer
Understanding Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, often develops due to chronic inflammation from Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, dietary factors, or genetic predisposition. It typically presents with vague symptoms such as indigestion, weight loss, nausea, and abdominal pain, leading to delayed diagnosis. Treatment options depend on the stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. Early detection significantly improves survival rates.

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chest or upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Genetics and family history – Some inherited syndromes increase risk
  • H. pylori infection
  • Diet high in smoked or processed foods
  • Smoking and alcohol consumption – Linked to higher cancer rates
  • Endoscopy – Examines the oesophagus, stomach, first part of the small bowel
  • Biopsy – Confirms cancer
  • Imaging – CT or PET scans help determine the stage

Early-Stage Disease

  • Surgery (Gastrectomy) – Partial or total removal of the stomach.
  • Chemotherapy – Often given before and after surgery to shrink the tumour and reduce risk of recurrence
  • Radiotherapy – In select cases

Metastatic Disease

  • Systemic Treatments:
    • Chemotherapy
    • Targeted Therapy
    • Immunotherapy (in select cases)
  • Radiation – Often to help pain or specific symptoms
  • Clinical Trials – Investigating novel targeted agents, immunotherapies, and combination treatments.