Introduction
Stomach Cancer refers to cancer that develops in the stomach - a muscular bag that lies along the digestive tract between the oesophagus and the small intestine. Most Stomach Cancers begin in the glands of the innermost layer of the stomach.
Cause
The cause of Stomach Cancer is unknown, however, a number of possible causes have been identified:
- Inflammation of the stomach (although whether this causes the cancer or is a result of the cancer is unknown).
- Stomach ulcers.
- Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that results in duodenal ulcers, may play a role in some Stomach Cancers.
- Stomach polyps are thought to develop into Stomach Cancers and should therefore be removed.
- Diet. It is believed that a diet high in salt, high in carbohydrates, high in nitrates (preservatives) and low in green, leafy vegetables and fruit may contribute to the development of Stomach Cancer.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms may be vague in the early stages of the disease. Specific symptoms include:
- Feeling of fullness or discomfort after a meal.
- Weight loss or weakness.
- Anaemia.
- Vomiting of blood.
- Passing black, tarry stools.
Health care
Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. In no way is this information intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner.
Stomach Cancer is diagnosed by gastrointestinal endoscopy (a flexible viewing tube is passed into the stomach and allows the stomach to be viewed directly and tissue samples to be taken) or barium studies (x-rays that can detect changes in the surface of the stomach). The endoscopy is considered to be the better procedure of the two - barium studies are less effective in revealing small, early Stomach Cancers.
Treatment of Stomach Cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body involves surgery to remove most or all of the stomach and nearby lymph nodes. If the cancer has spread, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Diet tips
- A Dietitian should be consulted for nutritional advice during and after treatment for Stomach Cancer, as special dietary issues need to be addressed.
- A diet that is high in salt and low in calcium is thought to increase the risks of developing Stomach Cancer.
- A high dietary intake of vitamin E may prolong survival rates in people that have had Stomach Cancer, while alcohol consumption is thought to reduce survival rates.
- People with an increased risk of developing Stomach Cancer (genetic vulnerability) are thought to reduce their risk of developing this cancer by eating a diet that is low in animal protein and animal fats (i.e. meat products).
- A high dietary consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables may reduce the risks of developing Stomach Cancer by providing antioxidants such as vitamin A , vitamin C , vitamin E and selenium .
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