Stomach cancer begins as a mass of abnormal cells that develops in the lining of the stomach. In some cases, cancer has not spread to lymph nodes or any other organs. Other cases involve cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Whether it has spread to other areas of the body is unclear. Listed below are the stages of stomach cancer and how to diagnose it. When you think you have stomach cancer, you should see your doctor.
Most cases of stomach cancer are adenocarcinomas, which develop in the cells of the innermost lining of the stomach. Fortunately, most adenocarcinomas do not progress to stomach cancer, but certain types are known to develop into the disease. While stomach cancer is twice as common in men than in women, rates are higher for African Americans, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic whites. Moreover, stomach cancer is most commonly diagnosed after age 50.
In some cases, stomach cancer runs in families. The risk is higher if there is a first-degree relative with the disease. In some cases, a mutation in a gene associated with known risk factors can result in multiple family members developing the disease. A predisposition to chronic inflammation is also a risk factor for stomach cancer. Fortunately, there are treatments available for stomach cancer and it is possible to recover from the disease.
Keeping your weight in check and avoiding smoking are two effective ways to reduce your risk of developing the disease. Tobacco use is linked to an increased risk of developing stomach cancer. However, it is important to note that a healthy weight is important for everyone, as it depends on their genetic makeup. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also risk factors. And being overweight can double your risk of developing the disease. Eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables can help you maintain a healthy weight, so it is crucial to stay healthy.
If you have been diagnosed with stomach cancer, you may be shocked, confused, and nervous. It can take a while to determine if you have the disease and what treatment options are best for your specific situation. If the disease has spread beyond the stomach, you may experience other symptoms, including bowel obstruction, neurologic changes, and swelling of the abdomen due to fluid. Getting help is the first step in managing stomach cancer. You should know the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer so that you can make the best decision for your recovery.
While there are many treatments available to cure stomach cancer, some people may need surgery. Surgery to remove the entire stomach can sometimes be effective, but it does carry risks. After surgery, your doctor may recommend chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can shrink the tumor before the surgery and even kill the remaining cells that remain after the surgery. You can also use targeted therapy to kill the cancer cells. Some targeted therapies target specific proteins in the cancer cells and are used alongside other treatments for stomach cancer.
