Stomach Cancer Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India

Overview

Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, occurs when cancerous cells form in the inner lining of the stomach. This type of cancer develops slowly, often going undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. Symptoms may resemble other gastrointestinal issues, making early detection challenging. Early recognition of signs and symptoms is crucial to managing and treating stomach cancer effectively.

Types of Stomach Cancer

The most prevalent form of stomach cancer is adenocarcinoma, which can be classified into two types:

1. Intestinal Adenocarcinoma: This type has a relatively better prognosis and is more responsive to targeted therapy.
2. Diffuse Adenocarcinoma: This type grows rapidly, making it harder to treat effectively.

Other, rarer types of stomach cancer include:

1. Gastric Lymphomas
2. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST)
3. Carcinoid Tumors

Symptoms and Signs of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer can sometimes be asymptomatic, but when symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Bloating
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Heartburn
• Vomiting blood
• Blood in stool
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• The skin & eyes turn yellow, a condition known as jaundice

Causes of Stomach Cancer

The exact cause of stomach cancer remains unclear. However, it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including environmental triggers, diet, lifestyle choices, genetics, previous illnesses, infections, and microbial influences.

Stages of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is classified into stages based on the TNM system developed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer:

1. T Category: Indicates the size and extent of the tumor.
2. N Category: Reflects the spread of cancer to lymph nodes.
3. M Category: Shows whether the cancer has metastasized (spread) to other parts of the body.

The stages are as follows:

1. Stage 0: Cancer is limited to the inner lining of the stomach and is treatable by surgery.
2. Stage 1: Cancer affects two or three layers of the stomach and may involve a few lymph nodes.
3. Stage 2: Cancer reaches deeper layers and lymph nodes but has not yet spread to other organs.
4. Stage 3: Cancer involves deeper layers and multiple lymph nodes but has not affected other organs.
5. Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other organs, indicating an advanced stage.

Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer can be diagnosed using the following methods:

• Endoscopy: A long, thin tube with a light and camera is used to examine the digestive tract.
• Biopsy: Tissue samples are collected and analyzed in a laboratory.
• Blood Tests: These help detect abnormalities in organ function.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound: Combines endoscopy with ultrasound to obtain detailed images of the digestive tract.
• Laparoscopy: Small incisions are made to allow a laparoscope to provide a view of the abdomen, helping detect small tumors.
• Imaging Tests: Includes PET-CT scans to provide detailed images for diagnosis.

Treatment of Stomach Cancer

The treatment plan for stomach cancer depends on the cancer’s stage and location. The primary treatment options include:

• Upper Endoscopy: Removes early-stage and precancerous tumors using an endoscope.
• Gastrectomy: Involves partial or complete removal of the stomach, along with nearby lymph nodes.

Other treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy: Uses medications to shrink cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to target & destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on proteins or genes that promote cancer growth.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to help it fight cancer.

Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer

Multiple factors may elevate the risk of developing stomach cancer, including:

• Stomach infections, inflammation, and polyps
• Diets high in salt and smoked foods, with low fruit and vegetable intake
• Smoking, which doubles the risk
• Family history of stomach cancer

Complications of Stomach Cancer

If left untreated, stomach cancer can lead to serious complications, such as:

• Metastasis to other organs
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Bowel obstruction
• Gastric perforation

Prevention of Stomach Cancer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer, the following lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk:

• Maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits & vegetables.
• Exercise regularly.
• Quit smoking.
• Limit the intake of salty, smoked, and highly processed foods.
• Moderate alcohol consumption.

Natural Progression and Prognosis

Stomach cancer typically progresses slowly over time. The prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis, with early detection offering the best chance for successful treatment. Advanced-stage tumors generally have poorer outcomes, though advancements in treatment are improving survival rates.

Early Detection of Stomach Cancer

Early detection is crucial for improving the prognosis of stomach cancer. Common symptoms include stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Special tests, including endoscopy, imaging, and biopsies, help confirm a diagnosis. Treatment options are determined based on the cancer’s location and spread, with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and immunotherapy being common approaches.

Survival Rate of Stomach Cancer Patients

The prognosis varies with the stage:

• Stage 1: Higher survival rates, especially if detected early.
• Stage 2: Survival rates decrease with advanced lymph node involvement.
• Stage 3: Lower survival rates due to extensive lymph node involvement.
• Stage 4: Survival rates are lower as cancer spreads to distant organs.

Consequences of Untreated Stomach Cancer

Without treatment, stomach cancer can lead to life-threatening complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding, gastric perforation, and bowel obstruction. The cancer will also metastasize, spreading to vital organs like the liver, lungs, and brain, significantly reducing the chances of survival.

For those concerned about stomach cancer, it is essential to consult with an oncologist promptly to explore treatment options while the disease is still in its early stages.

Expert Review

This content has been reviewed and updated by Dr. R.K. Choudhary, Director & Head of Medical Oncology, Haemato Oncology & BMT, on June 6, 2024.