Gastric Cancer

Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. Age, diet, and stomach disease can affect the risk of developing gastric cancer. Symptoms of gastric cancer include indigestion and stomach discomfort or pain. There is much cause for hope if gastric cancer is found early, however the outlook is poor if discovered at an advanced stage. 

The stomach is part of the digestive system.  It lies just under the lungs. The top of the stomach is joined to the bottom of the oesophagus (foodpipe) and the other end is joined to the bowel.

Symptoms of Gastric Cancer

There are many possible symptoms of Gastric Cancer, but they might be hard to spot.

They can affect your digestion, such as:

Other symptoms include:

If you have another condition, such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, you may get symptoms like these regularly.

Who is more likely to get stomach cancer

Anyone can get stomach cancer. It’s not always clear what causes it.

You might be more likely to get it if you:

Many stomach cancers are also linked to lifestyle.

How to reduce your risk of getting stomach cancer

You cannot always prevent stomach cancer. But making healthy changes can lower your chances of getting it.

Treatment for stomach cancer

Stomach cancer is often treatable, but it can be difficult to treat.

The treatment will depend on:

  • the type and size of the stomach cancer you have
  • where it is
  • if it has spread
  • your general health

It usually includes surgery and chemotherapy. It may also include radiotherapy, and treatment with targeted medicines.

The specialist care team looking after you will:

  • explain the treatments, benefits and side effects
  • work with you to create a treatment plan that is best for you
  • help you manage any side effects, including changes to your diet
  • help and support you during you recover
You’ll have regular check-ups during and after any treatments. You may also have tests and scans.

This information is from NHS – Symptoms of stomach cancer – NHS (www.nhs.uk)