Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignant condition characterized by the growth of cancerous cells within the lining of the stomach. It often develops slowly over many years and can manifest in various forms, such as adenocarcinoma, which accounts for the majority of stomach cancers and originates from the glandular tissue of the stomach lining. Less common types include lymphomas, affecting the immune system tissue within the stomach wall, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), arising from specialized cells in the stomach called interstitial cells of Cajal.

Early symptoms of stomach cancer are typically subtle and may include indigestion, stomach discomfort, and a feeling of fullness after eating a small meal. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more pronounced, such as unexplained weight loss, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and the presence of blood in the stool. Diagnosis often involves endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests like CT scans. Treatment depends on the cancer stage and may include surgical removal of part or all of the stomach (gastrectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, or a combination of these methods. Early detection is crucial, as prognosis tends to be better when the disease is found and treated before it has spread.