Stomach Cancer is basically the cancer of stomach which is the first part of the digestive tract in the abdomen after the food pipe. The ratio of stomach cancer has slightly increased as compared to previous year.
The main causes of stomach cancer are smoked foods, very spicy foods and bacteria called as Helicobacter Pylori.
Risk Factors:
Prevention:
Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoiding smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, treating H. pylori infection, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Screening:
There is no routine screening test for stomach cancer for the general population. However, individuals with a family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic syndromes may benefit from regular screenings, such as endoscopy or imaging tests
Symptoms & Signs:
Diagnosis:
Stomach cancer can be diagnosed by a procedure called as Endoscopy. The Endoscope is inserted through the mouth and internals of the stomach are visualized.
Treatment Modalities:
Treatment options for stomach cancer may include:
The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the cancer stage, type, and the patient's overall health.
Coping With Treatment:
Coping with stomach cancer treatment can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Support from healthcare professionals, friends, and family is crucial. Additionally, exploring complementary therapies, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and joining support groups can aid in coping.
During stomach cancer treatment, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to optimize recovery and minimize complications. Adhering to prescribed medications, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding certain activities are crucial do's and don'ts during this period.
Post Treatment Support:
After completing treatment, ongoing support is essential for patients to navigate life post-cancer. Regular check-ups, discussions with healthcare providers, and emotional support can contribute to a smooth transition into survivorship.
Follow-ups Cancer Plan:
A comprehensive follow-up plan is essential to monitor the patient's health post-treatment. Regular follow-up appointments, imaging studies, and laboratory tests help detect any signs of recurrence or complications early on.
Surveillance & Monitoring for Indications for Recurrence:
Surveillance and monitoring play a crucial role in detecting any indications of cancer recurrence. Understanding the signs and symptoms that may warrant immediate attention ensures timely intervention.
Stomach cancer can be caused due to various reasons like
• Anemia or low hemoglobin
• Difficulty in Swallowing
• Recurrent vomiting after food intake
• Blood vomiting
Stomach can be diagnosed by a procedure called as Endoscopy. The Endoscope is inserted through the mouth and internals of the stomach are visualized.
Treatment mainly consists of surgery in which the entire/part of the stomach is removed along with the Lymphnode which surround the stomach. Then the continuity is re-established with the help of joining the intestine to the food pipe or intestine to the remnant of the stomach.
These operations are now a days very advanced and can be done with minimal access of Laparoscopic surgery and also can be done with the help of Staplers. These staplers are useful in the sense they standardize the suchen and hence prevent complications.
The other treatments in Cancer are Radiation and Chemotherapy which are also given before surgery in some cases to improve the chances of survival Colorectal Cancer is the cancer of large intestine.
While some risk factors for stomach cancer cannot be changed, such as family history, others, like smoking and diet, can be modified to reduce the risk.
Offer emotional support, help with daily tasks, accompany them to appointments, and encourage them to follow their treatment plan.