INFORMATION ON GASTRIC CANCER

Stomach cancer is also called gastric cancer. The stomach is part of the digestive system. It is located in the upper abdomen, between the esophagus and the small intestine.

Most cases of gastric cancer are adenocarcinomas that occur in the lining of the stomach (mucosa). Stomach cancer can spread (metastasize) to the esophagus or the small intestine, and can extend through the stomach wall to nearby lymph nodes and organs (e.g., liver, pancreas, colon).


CAUSES OF GASTRIC CANCER

Exact cause for stomach cancer is not determined but some scientists believe that eating preserved food may cause stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacteria, causes inflammation of the stomach lining (gastritis), ulcers and also increases the risk of stomach cancer. People who have a stomach disorder called atrophic gastritis, where the lining of the stomach wastes away are at higher risk of having stomach cancer.


SYMPTOMS OF GASTRIC CANCER

Some of the symptoms of stomach cancer are:
1. Excessive belching
2. Blood in vomiting
3. Loss of appetite
4. Indigestion and stomach discomfort
5. Weight loss


DIAGNOSIS OF GASTRIC CANCER

Stomach cancer can be diagnosed by following ways
1. X-ray
2. CT Scan
3. Endoscopy


TREATMENT OF GASTRIC CANCER

Treatment of stomach cancer depends upon the size ,stage and extent of the tumor. Depending on the stage of the disease when found, treatment for stomach cancer may include:

Surgery
Chemotherapy -Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells
Radiotherapy -This treatment includes the use of high-energy rays to damage cancer cells and stop them from growing.
Biological therapy (also called immunotherapy) is a form of treatment that helps the body's immune system attack and destroy cancer cells.