Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, can develop quietly — often without clear symptoms in its early stages. By the time it causes noticeable problems, the disease may have already advanced. That’s why understanding the subtle signs and acting early is so important.
KNOW THE SIGNS:
🔍 What Is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer begins in the lining of the stomach and can grow slowly over years. The most common type is adenocarcinoma, which forms in the cells of the innermost lining. It can later spread to other parts of the stomach, lymph nodes, liver, or even lungs — especially if not detected early.
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⚠️ Why It Can Be Silent at First
One of the biggest challenges with stomach cancer is that early symptoms are mild or easily mistaken for common digestive issues.
Early warning signs may include:
• Indigestion or heartburn that doesn’t go away
• Feeling full after eating small amounts
• Mild nausea or loss of appetite
• Fatigue or low energy
• Bloating after meals
Since many people dismiss these as minor, they often delay seeing a doctor — giving the cancer more time to grow and spread.
❗When to Be Concerned
As the disease progresses, symptoms become harder to ignore. These may include:
• Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort
• Difficulty swallowing
• Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
• Black or tarry stools (signs of internal bleeding)
• Unintentional weight loss
• Persistent fatigue
• Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdomen
If any of these signs persist for more than a couple of weeks, especially in people over 50, it’s essential to get checked by a healthcare provider.
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🧬 Who’s at Risk?
Certain factors may increase the chances of developing stomach cancer:
• Chronic infection with H. pylori bacteria
• Smoking and alcohol use
• A diet high in salty, smoked, or processed foods
• Family history of gastric cancer
• Conditions like Barrett's esophagus, pernicious anemia, or prior stomach surgery
• Older age (typically over 55)
• Male gender (men are more likely to develop it)
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🏥 Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors may use endoscopy, imaging (CT, MRI), biopsies, or blood tests to diagnose stomach cancer.
Treatment may include:
• Surgery to remove part or all of the stomach
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Palliative care to manage symptoms in advanced stages
Early detection offers the best chance for effective treatment.