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Stomach Cancer
Urgent
Stomach cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the lining of the stomach. It may develop gradually and can cause indigestion, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting, difficulty eating, or unexplained weight loss. Early disease may produce few or nonspecific symptoms, so persistent digestive symptoms require appropriate medical evaluation.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek prompt medical evaluation for persistent upper abdominal symptoms, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing, anemia, blood in vomit or stool, or symptoms that progressively worsen. Emergency care is needed for significant bleeding, severe weakness or fainting, severe abdominal pain, or other sudden deterioration.
Symptoms
4
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Stomach cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the lining of the stomach. It may develop gradually and can cause indigestion, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, nausea, vomiting, difficulty eating, or unexplained weight loss. Early disease may produce few or nonspecific symptoms, so persistent digestive symptoms require appropriate medical evaluation.
Symptoms 4
Loss of Appetite
Lower Abdominal Pain
Persistent Hoarseness
Weight Loss
Causes 2
Stomach cancer can develop through a combination of genetic and environmental factors that cause abnormal changes in stomach cells. Helicobacter pylori infection, chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, certain precancerous changes, inherited genetic conditions, smoking, and dietary factors can contribute to the development of some stomach cancers.
Infection
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, chronic gastritis, smoking, family history, certain inherited cancer syndromes, increasing age, diets high in heavily salted or preserved foods, and previous stomach surgery or certain precancerous stomach conditions.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis generally involves upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, during which the stomach lining can be examined directly and a biopsy can be taken for microscopic analysis. Imaging such as CT scans may be used to determine the extent of disease. Additional tests may be performed to assess tumor characteristics and possible spread.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Risk reduction includes avoiding tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate fruits and vegetables, limiting heavily salted, smoked, or preserved foods, and identifying and treating Helicobacter pylori infection when appropriate
People with significant inherited or medical risk factors should follow individualized medical advice regarding surveillance
Prevention Guidance
Risk reduction includes avoiding tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet with adequate fruits and vegetables, limiting heavily salted, smoked, or preserved foods, and identifying and treating Helicobacter pylori infection when appropriate. People with significant inherited or medical risk factors should follow individualized medical advice regarding surveillance.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Protein Rich Foods
Support recovery and muscle maintenance.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Vegetable Soups
Easy to consume and nutritious.
Whole Grains
Provide energy and fiber.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Meat
May increase cancer risk.
Smoked Foods
May contain harmful compounds.
Alcohol
May worsen overall health.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is a malignant tumor that develops in the stomach lining.
Weight loss, stomach pain, nausea, and loss of appetite may occur.
Smoking, H. pylori infection, and family history increase risk.
Endoscopy and biopsy are commonly used.
Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.