Stomach Cancer Treatment Hospital in Delhi, India | Surgery, Types & Cost
Advanced Centre for Stomach Cancer Treatment in India
At Metro Hospitals, we provide comprehensive care for all types of stomach cancer, including adenocarcinoma, lymphoma, carcinoid cancer, and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Our multidisciplinary team includes the best stomach cancer doctors, medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, GI oncologists, cancer surgeons, paramedical staff, nutritionists, and physiotherapists, all working together to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Stomach Cancer Specialist Team
Our specialized team evaluates each patient’s condition and the stage of stomach cancer to recommend a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, surgery, endoscopic mucosal resection, radiation therapy, chemo-radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, originates in the stomach, which has three parts: the cardia (upper portion), fundus/corpus (middle part), and antrum/pylorus (lower part). The stomach plays a vital role in digestion by releasing gastric juices to break down food, which is then absorbed by the body.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Early detection of stomach cancer is crucial for better survival outcomes. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Bloating after eating
- Feeling full after small meals
- Severe heartburn
- Persistent indigestion
- Unexplained nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained stomach pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Types of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer types are determined by the cells that make up the tumor:
Adenocarcinoma: The most prevalent type of stomach cancer, originating in the glandular cells of the stomach lining.
Lymphoma: Originates in the immune system cells, relatively rare.
Carcinoid Cancer: Begins in hormone-producing cells, also rare.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST): Originates in nervous system tissues, rare.
Risk Factors and Causes
- Helicobacter Pylori Infection: A major risk factor, H. pylori bacteria can cause chronic gastritis, leading to gastric cancer.
- Diet: High starch, low protein diets, and excessive salt intake increase the risk. Consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and a balanced diet can be protective.
- Lifestyle: Alcohol consumption and tobacco use are significant risk factors.
- Genetic Susceptibility: A family history of stomach cancer increases the risk, and certain genetic conditions can predispose individuals to gastric cancer.
- Occupational Hazards: Exposure to dusty environments, high temperatures, and certain chemicals in industries like mining and farming can increase the risk.
Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer
Diagnosis involves several procedures to confirm the presence and stage of stomach cancer:
- Endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is used to examine the stomach.
- Biopsy: Tissue samples are taken during endoscopy for further evaluation.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound: Assesses the depth of tumor invasion.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, and barium swallows are used to determine the extent of the disease.
- Exploratory Surgery: Laparoscopy is performed to confirm operability before surgery.
Stomach Cancer Stages
The stage of stomach cancer determines the treatment plan:
- Stage I: Tumor is limited to the stomach lining.
- Stage II: Tumor has spread deeper into the stomach wall or to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread through all stomach layers or to extensive lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant areas of the body.
Treatment Options
Treatment plans are tailored to the stage of cancer and the patient’s overall health. Options include:
- Surgery: Common for early-stage cancer.
- Subtotal Gastrectomy: Removal of part of the stomach.
- Total Gastrectomy: Complete removal of the stomach.
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): Non-surgical removal of early-stage cancer.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs used to stop cancer cell growth.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
- Chemo-radiation: Combination of chemotherapy and radiation.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific cancer cell abnormalities.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should we be worried about stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer is among the top five most common cancers and a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Early detection is key, but many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment challenging.
What can we do to prevent gastric cancer?
Preventive measures include eradicating H. pylori infection, adopting a healthy diet low in salt and high in fruits and vegetables, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, and maintaining a healthy weight.