Understanding Stomach Cancer: A Patient’s Guide
What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, starts in your stomach, the muscular sac responsible for breaking down food. It can develop anywhere in the stomach, but commonly near the junction with the esophagus (the tube that carries food from your mouth).
Treatment and Prognosis:
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. The good news is that many small stomach cancers found early have excellent cure rates. Treatment often involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, sometimes combined with other therapies like radiation or chemotherapy. The specific approach depends on the cancer’s stage, location, and other factors.
What Causes It?
While the exact cause remains unclear, some factors increase your risk:
- Ongoing acid reflux: Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus (GERD) can irritate the lining, raising the risk.
- Diet: Diets high in salty and smoked foods and low in fruits and vegetables might contribute.
- H. pylori infection: This bacterial infection in the stomach can increase risk.
- Other stomach issues: Chronic inflammation (gastritis) or growths (polyps) can play a role.
- Smoking: Smokers have a higher risk.
- Family history: Having close relatives with stomach cancer raises your risk slightly.
Reducing Your Risk:
While you can’t control everything, here are some ways to help lower your risk:
- Eat a healthy diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, and limit salty and smoked foods.
- Quit smoking: This significantly reduces your risk of many cancers, including stomach cancer.
- Talk to your doctor: If you have a family history or concerns, discuss screening options with your doctor.
Seeking Expert Advice:
Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and cannot replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about stomach cancer, consult your doctor promptly. Early detection and prompt treatment are key to better outcomes.
Miskawaan Integrative Cancer Care:
At Miskawaan, we offer comprehensive care that empowers you throughout your journey. We combine advanced diagnostics, conventional methods, and natural therapies to provide personalized treatment plans. Contact us to learn more about our unique approach to managing stomach cancer.