Gastric cancer

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. Age, diet, and stomach disease can affect the risk of developing gastric cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gastric cancer include indigestion and stomach discomfort or pain. These and other symptoms may be caused by gastric cancer or by other conditions. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:

• Indigestion or a burning sensation (heartburn).
• Discomfort or pain in the abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Bloating of the stomach after meals.
• Loss of appetite.
• Sensation of food getting stuck in the throat while eating.
• Symptoms of advanced gastric cancer include:
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Vomiting blood or having blood in the stool.
• Unexplained weight loss.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing gastric cancer. These include:

• Having a certain type of anemia (pernicious anemia).
• Having chronic atrophic gastritis.
• Having had an infection in the stomach caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.
• Having had stomach surgery for non-cancerous diseases, such as ulcers.
• Having a certain inherited condition, such as hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
• Having a diet that is high in salted, smoked, or pickled foods.
• Having a diet that is low in fruits and vegetables.
• Being older or male.
• Smoking cigarettes.
• Having a family history of gastric cancer.

Diagnosis

Tests that examine the stomach and esophagus are used to detect (find) and diagnose gastric cancer. The following tests and procedures may be used:

• Physical exam and history.
• Blood chemistry studies.
• Complete blood count (CBC).
• Upper endoscopy.
• Upper GI series.
• CT scan.
• Biopsy.

Treatment

There are different types of treatment for patients with gastric cancer. Five types of standard treatment are used:

• Surgery.
• Radiation therapy.
• Chemotherapy.
• Chemoradiation therapy.
• Targeted therapy.

Prognosis

The prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options depend on the following:

• The stage of the cancer (whether it is in the stomach only or has spread to other places in the body).
• The patient’s general health.

Gastric cancer Resources
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