Gastric Carcinoma

Gastric Carcinoma: Overview

Gastric carcinoma, or stomach cancer, is a cancer that forms in the cells of the stomach lining. It is a relatively rare cancer, but in some areas of the world it is the second most common tumor. Gastric cancer is often difficult to diagnose and treat because it develops slowly and the early signs and symptoms can easily be mistaken for other conditions. Gastric carcinoma is most commonly found in people over the age of 50.

Factors That May Increase Your Risk of Gastric Cancer

Although the exact cause of gastric cancer is unknown, there are a number of risk factors that may increase your chances of developing the disease. These include:

• Age - The risk of gastric cancer increases with age.
• Gender - Men are more likely to develop gastric cancer than women.
• Family History - People with a family history of gastric cancer are at greater risk.
• Diet - A diet high in processed meats and smoked, pickled, or salty foods may increase the risk.
• Smoking - Smoking increases the risk of developing gastric cancer.
• Infection - Long-term infection with the bacteria helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) may increase the risk of gastric cancer.
• Other Factors - Certain inherited genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis, can increase the risk of gastric cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Gastric Cancer

Because the symptoms of gastric cancer can be subtle, they often go unnoticed until the cancer has progressed. Signs and symptoms of advanced gastric cancer may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Bloody or black tarry stools

Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastric Cancer

If gastric cancer is suspected, a doctor will likely perform a physical exam and order imaging tests or endoscopic procedures to confirm the diagnosis. Common imaging tests may include an upper endoscopy, X-ray, or computed tomography (CT) scan. If cancer is found, a biopsy may be performed to determine its stage.

Once the diagnosis and stage of the cancer has been determined, the doctor and patient will discuss the best course of treatment. Options may include:

• Surgery - Surgery to remove affected tissue or organs is often used to treat gastric cancer.
• Chemotherapy - Medications may be administered either intravenously or orally to kill cancer cells and reduce tumor size.
• Radiation therapy - Radiation is often used to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors that cannot be removed surgically.

The prognosis and survival rate for gastric cancer depends on several factors, such as the stage and type of tumor, the patient's age and overall health, and the treatment plan that is chosen. If detected and treated early, the prognosis for the disease may be more favorable.