The exact cause of stomach cancer is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to increase the risk of developing this condition. These include:

• Helicobacter pylori infection:
  • Chronic infection with H. pylori bacteria is one of the most significant risk factors for stomach cancer, as it can cause inflammation and ulcers in the stomach lining.
• Family history:
  • A family history of stomach cancer or genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing the disease.
• Diet:
  • A diet high in smoked, salted, or pickled foods and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
• Tobacco and alcohol use:
  • Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of gastric cancer.
• Age and gender:
  • Stomach cancer is more common in people over the age of 50 and is more prevalent in men than in women.
• Previous stomach surgery:
  • People who have had certain stomach surgeries, such as those for ulcers, may have an increased risk of developing stomach cancer.
• Other medical conditions:
  • Conditions like pernicious anemia, stomach polyps, and certain genetic disorders can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

In the early stages, stomach cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more apparent, including:

• Abdominal pain or discomfort:
  • Persistent pain or discomfort in the stomach area, often described as a feeling of fullness or bloating.
• Unexplained weight loss:
  • Losing weight without trying or without a clear reason.
• Nausea and vomiting:
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia):
  • A sensation of food getting stuck or difficulty swallowing, especially solid foods.
• Loss of appetite:
  • A decrease in appetite, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts.
• Fatigue:
  • Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Blood in stool or vomit:
  • Dark, tarry stools or vomit that may appear red or have a coffee-ground appearance due to the presence of blood.
• Anemia:
  • Low red blood cell count due to internal bleeding, which can cause fatigue and weakness.

Stomach cancer is diagnosed using a combination of methods, which may include:

1. Medical history and physical examination:
   • The doctor will ask about your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history, and perform a physical exam to check for signs of cancer.
2. Endoscopy:
   • A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to examine the stomach lining for abnormalities or growths. A biopsy may be taken during the procedure.
3. Imaging tests:
   • X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be used to visualize the stomach and nearby organs to detect signs of cancer and spread.
4. Blood tests:
   • Blood tests can help detect anemia, assess liver and kidney function, and identify tumor markers.
5. Biopsy:
   • A tissue sample is taken from the stomach during an endoscopy to be examined for cancer cells.

Treatment for stomach cancer depends on the stage of cancer, its location, and the patient’s overall health. The main treatment options include:

• Surgery:
  • If the cancer is localized, surgery may involve removing part or all of the stomach (gastrectomy). Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed to prevent the spread of cancer.
• Chemotherapy:
  • Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy:
  • Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It may be used in combination with chemotherapy for better results.
• Targeted therapy:
  • Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells, limiting damage to healthy tissue. These therapies can be used alongside chemotherapy.
• Immunotherapy:
  • Immunotherapy helps stimulate the body’s immune system to fight cancer more effectively. It may be used for advanced or metastatic stomach cancer.
• Palliative care:
  • In cases where the cancer is advanced, palliative care may be provided to manage symptoms, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.