Gastric Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India
Understanding Gastric Cancer: The stomach, located in the upper abdomen, plays a crucial role in digestion by producing acid and enzymes to break down food. Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, occurs when cells in the stomach grow uncontrollably and fail to die when they should, potentially spreading to other parts of the body.
Types of Stomach Cancer:
- Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, originating from the lining of the stomach.
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Less common, arising from the interstitial cells in the stomach wall.
- Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors: Originate from hormone-producing cells in the stomach lining.
- Lymphomas: Develop from the lymphatic tissue within the stomach wall.
Risk Factors:
- Age: More common in adults over 50.
- Diet: High intake of salt, pickled, and smoked foods.
- Gender: Higher prevalence in men.
- Family History: Certain genetic factors may increase risk.
- Blood Group A: Slightly higher risk associated with this blood type.
- Smoking: Increases risk.
- Helicobacter pylori Infection: Long-term infection with this bacterium increases the risk.
- Previous Stomach Surgery: Prior removal of part of the stomach can increase the risk.
Symptoms of Gastric Cancer: Early-stage gastric cancer often has no symptoms, making it challenging to detect. As cancer progresses it can cause symptoms such as:
- The pain or discomfort is felt in the abdomen area of the upper part.
- Indigestion.
- Nausea and loss of appetite.
- Feeling full after eating small amounts.
- Weight loss.
- Blood in stools (black or dark-colored).
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes).
- Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer:
- Health History and Physical Examination: Initial assessment includes a review of symptoms, health habits, and a physical exam to check for abnormalities.
- Blood Tests: To evaluate overall health & check for tumor markers.
- Upper GI Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube is used to view the inside of the stomach and small intestine, often followed by a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
- Biopsy: Tissue sample taken during endoscopy is examined under a microscope to identify cancer cells.
Staging and Extent of Gastric Cancer: Further tests help determine the stage of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning. These may include:
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Uses sound waves to create images of the stomach and surrounding tissues.
- CT Scan: Detailed imaging of the chest, abdomen & pelvis.
- PET Scan: Detects areas of increased glucose uptake, indicating active cancer cells.
- MRI with Gadolinium: Provides detailed images of the stomach without radiation.
- Diagnostic Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure to inspect the abdominal organs and take tissue samples.
Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer: The treatment approach depends on the cancer stage, size, and overall health of the patient. Treatment may aim to cure, control, or ease symptoms of cancer.
Surgical Options:
- Subtotal Gastrectomy: Partial removal of the stomach and nearby tissues.
- Total Gastrectomy: Complete removal of the stomach, with the esophagus reconnected to the small intestine.
- Palliative Surgery: For advanced cancer, procedures like stent placement, laser therapy, or gastrojejunostomy may be used to relieve symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Endoscopic Mucosal Resection: Removes early-stage cancer or precancerous growths using an endoscope.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to destroy or inhibit the growth of cancer cells, often in combination with surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) or before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy).
- Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells with high-energy rays to destroy them or keep them from growing.
- Chemoradiation: Combines chemotherapy and radiation to enhance treatment effectiveness, either before or after surgery.
- Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in cancer growth, causing less harm to normal cells than traditional chemotherapy.
Metro Hospital, Delhi: Leading Stomach Cancer Care Metro Hospital, Delhi, is recognized as one of the best stomach cancer hospitals in India. The hospital offers personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs, delivered by a team of experts including oncologists, surgeons, and specialized nurses. The advanced diagnostic tools, state-of-the-art treatment options, and compassionate care ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Take the First Step Towards Wellness: Experience world-class healthcare at Metro Hospitals. Book an appointment today and embark on your journey to recovery with confidence.