Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide.
Early detection and prompt medical attention are crucial for better treatment outcomes and preventable death.
Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, affects stomach lining cells. It’s the fifth most common cancer worldwide and more common in men. Smoking, a family history of stomach cancer, and a diet high in salt and processed foods can increase the risk of the disease. Stomach cancer, a less-discussed but serious health issue, is dangerous when symptoms go unnoticed or misinterpreted. The subtle nature of these signs may delay diagnosis and make treatment more difficult, prompting this urgency.
Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Saggu, Director of Minimal Access, GI & Bariatric Surgery at CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi discusses five stomach cancer symptoms to watch out for:
Consistent abdominal pain—a warning sign
Consistent abdominal pain is the first sign. Upper abdominal pain, often misdiagnosed as indigestion, may indicate stomach cancer. When this pain persists despite over-the-counter medications or lifestyle changes, medical advice is needed.
Unexpected weight loss—not always good
Unintentional weight loss without diet or exercise changes may indicate stomach cancer. When combined with symptoms like abdominal pain, losing weight may indicate a serious health issue that needs immediate attention.
Persistent nausea and vomiting: Investigate.
Chronic nausea and vomiting, especially after meals, should not be ignored. Chronic nausea, especially after eating, may indicate gastric issues that require medical attention.
Dysphagia—swallowing difficulties—requires immediate attention. Swallowing solid foods becomes difficult as cancer progresses, then liquids. People with this symptom should see a doctor immediately.
Fatigue and weakness despite rest may indicate stomach cancer. Persistent fatigue, especially when combined with other symptoms, requires medical attention.
“Stomach cancer may cause these symptoms, but other benign illnesses may too. Early detection improves treatment outcomes, so anyone showing these warning signs should see a doctor immediately. Stomach cancer prevention requires awareness. Knowing these indications and encouraging prompt medical attention can improve early detection and treatment outcomes. Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Saggu says regular checkups and honest communication with doctors can save lives.
Recognizing and acting on stomach cancer’s subtle signs is crucial. Quickly treating these symptoms and seeking medical advice can help people stay healthy. This may lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.”
Conclusion
Stomach cancer, the fifth most common cancer, is more common in men. Family history, smoking, and a diet high in salt and processed foods may increase disease risk, but the cause is unknown. Stomach cancer is rarely discussed but serious, and its subtlety can delay diagnosis and complicate treatment.
Dr. Sukhvinder Singh Saggu, Director of Minimal Access, GI & Bariatric Surgery at CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi, stresses the importance of recognizing and treating five stomach cancer symptoms. Consistent abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, fatigue, and weakness are examples.
Medical help is needed immediately for proper evaluation and diagnosis, as early detection improves treatment outcomes. Awareness of these indicators and prompt medical attention can improve early detection and treatment outcomes. Early intervention may save lives with regular checkups and honest medical communication.
In conclusion, stomach cancer symptoms should be quickly addressed and medical advice sought to protect health.
