Many of us have stomach aches many times in our lives; But to find out if we have stomach cancer or not, what symptoms should we look for? 

The person usually does not notice the early signs of stomach cancer.

Bloating , heartburn, nausea and malaise are the early symptoms of stomach cancer. Many of these symptoms are also seen in other gastrointestinal diseases; So we need to know how to diagnose this disease and when to see a doctor.

Early signs of stomach cancer

Bloating, heartburn, nausea and malaise are the early symptoms of stomach cancer. These symptoms are seen in many digestive problems . Because of this, in most cases, gastric cancer is diagnosed late. The person should be aware of the following symptoms and see a doctor if they notice them.

1. Weight loss for no reason

Weight loss for no apparent reason is one of the most important symptoms of stomach cancer.

2. Feeling seriously tired

This may be due to blood loss. Feeling tired along with unexpected weight loss may be one of the first signs of stomach cancer. Blood loss can lead to anemia, which means a decrease in red blood cells and is one of the causes of fatigue.

3. Blood in the stool and vomiting

This symptom is not very common, but it can be seen in a person. In this case, the stool is seen with black and dark streaks. This may be due to bleeding in the stomach or upper part of the small intestine.

4. Satiety

Feeling full, even when you eat a small amount, is one of the first signs of stomach cancer. Many people with gastric cancer feel full in their upper abdomen, even after eating small amounts of food.

5. Changing bowel habits

A person may experience many cases of constipation and diarrhea that are not normal for him.

6. Symptoms of gastrointestinal upset that do not go away

For example, a person may have nausea or abdominal discomfort that lasts for more than a few days.

7. Existence of gastrointestinal symptoms that you have not experienced before

Reflux , in which stomach contents toward the esophagus are a good example of this mode.

Factors that increase the risk of stomach cancer

According to research, some factors increase the risk of stomach cancer. However, one person may not develop stomach cancer despite the presence of risk factors, and conversely, another person may develop gastric cancer despite the absence of risk factors. Risk factors that increase the risk of stomach cancer include:

1. Gender

Men are more at risk for stomach cancer than women.

2. Age and race

The incidence of gastric cancer is higher in people over 50 years of age. Most patients with gastric cancer are between 60 and 80 years old. In some races, stomach cancer is more common than in other races.

3. Helicobacter pylori infection

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is a major cause of stomach cancer. Helicobacter pylori infection is commonly associated with gastric cancer in individuals.

4. diet

Diets rich in smoked foods, salty meats and fish and vegetables increase the risk of stomach cancer. Processed meats are also high in gastric cancer agents such as nitrate and nitrite. Some bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori, have been able to alter these compounds and cause stomach cancer in laboratory animals. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of stomach cancer.

5. Tobacco use

Smoking doubles the risk of stomach cancer.

6. family history

People with a family history of gastric cancer are at a higher risk. The presence of gastric cancer in relatives such as parents, children and siblings increases the risk of gastric cancer in the individual.

7. Gastric lymphoma

Gastric lymphoma is an uncommon cancer that originates in the stomach tissue. The gastric lymphoma increases the risk of stomach cancer.

8. Overweight and obesity

Excess weight also increases the risk of stomach cancer, especially in the upper part of the stomach.

9. Having a history of gastric surgery

A history of gastric surgery can increase the risk of stomach cancer for reasons such as stomach ulcers. This is probably due to less acid production. Stomach acid prevents the growth of nitrite-producing bacteria in the stomach. Gallbladder reflux after surgery can also increase the risk of stomach cancer.

10. Persianemia anemia

This form of anemia is caused by the stomach’s inability to produce internal factors. The internal factor secreted by the stomach is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12. Perinatal anemia increases the risk of stomach cancer.

11. Blood type A

People with blood type A are more at risk for stomach cancer than others.

12. Some genetic disorders

Some genetic disorders, such as Lynch syndrome, increase the risk of certain cancers, such as stomach cancer.

13. Some jobs

People who work in some occupations, such as the coal, metals, and rubber industries, are more likely to develop gastric cancer.

A promising point for the prevention of stomach cancer

Gastric cancer is on the decline. The main reason for this is that Helicobacter pylori infections, one of the leading causes of gastric cancer, are being diagnosed earlier today. Helicobacter pylori can cause stomach cancer due to chronic inflammation of the lining of the stomach and ulcers.

Today, by observing the symptoms of Helicobacter pylori, infection is controlled with antibiotics, which helps control the infection and reduce the risk of cancer.

Stomach cancer tests

Gastric cancer is suspected when a doctor observes the patient’s symptoms. The following tests should be performed on a person to diagnose and confirm the infection:

• M.R.I;
• Histology;
• laparoscopy;
• CT Scan;
• Ultrasound endoscopy;
• Chest radiography;
• Positron emission imaging;
• Endoscopy or introspection of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Can stomach cancer be reduced?

Although there is no definitive way to prevent stomach cancer, some measures can reduce the risk.

1. Healthy diet

Doctors believe that unhealthy nutrition has a dramatic effect on increasing the risk of stomach cancer. To reduce this possibility, it is better to follow these tips:

• Avoid foods that are stored by salting, pickling, or smoking.
• The American Cancer Society recommends increasing your intake of plant foods. This includes 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables a day. Consumption of whole grains, fish and poultry reduces the risk of stomach cancer.

2. Avoid smoking

Smoking is one of the most important factors in increasing the risk of cancers such as stomach cancer; Therefore, refraining from consuming it reduces the risk of developing this cancer.

Is gastric cancer treatable?

The process of treating gastric cancer largely depends on the patient’s general health and the degree of cancer. Gastric cancer is usually diagnose in the late stages and has spread to other parts of the body. In the advanced stages of cancer, it will no longer be easy to treat and the focus is often on controlling the disease. Early detection of gastric cancer increases the likelihood of cure.

Concluding remarks

There is no definitive way to prevent stomach cancer; But lifestyle changes , healthy eating and smoking cessation reduce the risk of stomach cancer.

The early signs of stomach cancer are similar to many simple digestive problems. This can lead to late detection of gastric cancer. Paying attention to the symptoms of this disease and seeing a doctor immediately increases the patient’s chances of survival significantly.