Stomach cancer (also known as gastric cancer) may not be as well-known as other cancers, but it is a serious health condition that affects thousands of people each year. During Stomach Cancer Awareness Month in November, it’s important to educate yourself on the risks, symptoms, and ways to reduce your chances of developing the disease. Understanding more about stomach cancer can help you stay vigilant about your health and spread awareness to others.
What Is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer develops when abnormal cells in the stomach lining grow out of control. It can happen in different parts of the stomach and spread to other organs if it’s not caught early. While stomach cancer rates have declined over the past few decades, it remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer
While anyone can develop stomach cancer, there are certain factors that can increase your risk. These risk factors can be both lifestyle-related or genetic/environmental. Some of the most common factors include:
- Age: People over 50 are more at-risk to develop stomach cancer.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop stomach cancer than women.
- Diet: Diets high in salty, smoked, or processed foods can increase the risk of stomach cancer. A diet low in fresh fruits and vegetables may also contribute.
- Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): This type of bacterial infection, which causes ulcers, is a significant risk factor for stomach cancer.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of many types of cancer, including stomach cancer.
- Family history: Having a close family member with stomach cancer can increase your risk.
- Certain medical conditions: People with chronic gastritis, stomach polyps, or pernicious anemia (an autoimmune condition) may have a higher risk of developing stomach cancer.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Early-stage stomach cancer often doesn’t show clear symptoms, which is why it can be difficult to detect in its early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable. These can include:
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Appetite loss or feeling full after eating very little
- Unintentional or unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Black, sticky stools or blood in the stool
Many of these symptoms can also be signs of less-serious stomach conditions. However, if you experience any of these symptoms consistently, it’s important to see your doctor.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Stomach Cancer
While some of the risk factors for stomach cancer are beyond your control (such as age and family history), there are changes you can make to your lifestyle that can lower your risk.
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help protect against stomach cancer. Avoid or limit salty, smoked, and ultra-processed foods, as they are linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.
2. Quit Smoking
You might think of lung cancer when you think of smoking, but smoking is also a risk factor for stomach cancer. Consider seeking help to quit. Your healthcare provider can recommend programs or medications to support you in your quitting journey.
3. Limit Alcohol
Drinking alcohol excessively can lead to irritation of the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach cancer. Reducing your alcohol intake or becoming sober can help reduce your risk.
4. Treat Infections
If you have a history of stomach ulcers or know that you have an H. pylori infection, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Treating H. pylori infections early can reduce your risk of developing stomach cancer.
5. Get Regular Check-ups
Regular medical check-ups are important for your overall health, but they are especially important if you have risk factors for stomach cancer. Your primary care provider can recommend appropriate screenings based on your health history. If you have a family history of stomach cancer or other risk factors, genetic testing or specialized screenings may be recommended.
The Importance of Early Detection
Like many other cancers, stomach cancer is most treatable when caught early. Unfortunately, because symptoms often don’t appear until the cancer has advanced, early detection can be challenging. That’s why it’s important to be proactive about your health, particularly if you have certain risk factors.
If your doctor suspects stomach cancer, they may recommend tests such as endoscopy, where a small camera is used to examine the stomach lining, or imaging tests like CT scans. Biopsies may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.
Supporting Stomach Cancer Awareness
Stomach Cancer Awareness Month is a time to focus on learning about the disease, supporting those affected, and encouraging research for better treatments. If you’re looking for ways to get involved, here are a few ideas:
- Learn and share information: Educate yourself about stomach cancer and share your new knowledge with friends and family. The more people know about the risks and symptoms, the better prepared they’ll be to take action if needed.
- Support cancer research: Consider donating to organizations that fund stomach cancer research or provide support to those living with cancer. Every contribution can help make a difference in finding better treatments and saving lives!
- Get involved in your community: Many local and national events take place during Stomach Cancer Awareness Month. From walks to fundraisers, participating in these events can help raise awareness and show support for those affected by stomach cancer.
Stomach Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that education and early detection are key to fighting this disease. If you have questions or concerns about your stomach health, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.
