Stomach cancer is a disease that, if detected early, can have a much more favourable prognosis. However, its initial symptoms can be subtle and easily confused with other less severe conditions.
This article explains the warning signs you should not ignore and when it’s time to consult a specialist. Recognising these symptoms can make the difference between an early and late diagnosis, significantly influencing treatment options and the patient’s quality of life.
What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignant tumour that develops in the cells of the stomach’s inner lining. Although its incidence has decreased in recent decades, it remains one of the most common causes of cancer-related deaths in Spain.
This type of cancer usually develops slowly over several years. Before cancer appears, early changes often occur in the stomach lining. These changes rarely cause symptoms and, therefore, frequently go unnoticed.
Risk factors
Before delving into the symptoms, it’s essential to understand the factors that may increase the risk of developing stomach cancer:
- Advanced age: It is more common in people over 50.
- Gender: It is more common in men than in women.
- Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium can cause chronic inflammation in the stomach, increasing the risk of stomach cancer.
- Diet: A diet high in smoked, salted, or preserved foods may increase the risk.
- Smoking: Smokers are approximately twice as likely to develop stomach cancer as non-smokers.
- Obesity: Excess body weight is associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer.
- Family history: If you have first-degree relatives (parents or siblings) who have had stomach cancer, your risk is higher.
- Pernicious anaemia: This condition may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
- Previous stomach surgery: People who have undergone surgery to treat stomach ulcers are at higher risk.
- Blood group A: For reasons still unknown, people with blood type A have a higher risk of developing stomach cancer.
It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean you will develop stomach cancer. Similarly, some people with no known risk factors may also develop this cancer.
Early symptoms of stomach cancer
The symptoms of stomach cancer in its early stages can be non-specific and easily attributed to other more common digestive conditions. However, it’s crucial to pay attention to the following signs, especially if they persist over time:
- Indigestion or abdominal discomfort: A feeling of bloating or discomfort in the upper abdomen, even after eating small amounts of food. This sensation may be constant or come and go.
- Loss of appetite: A sudden decrease in interest in food or feeling full quickly. You might feel full quickly, even after eating smaller portions than usual.
- Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without an apparent reason, without changing your diet or exercise routine. Significant weight loss (more than 5% of body weight over 6 to 12 months) without explanation should always be evaluated by a doctor.
- Nausea or vomiting: Especially if frequent or containing blood. Vomiting blood may appear bright red or have a “coffee grounds” appearance.
- Difficulty swallowing: A sensation that food “gets stuck” when swallowing. This difficulty may start with solid foods and progress to affect liquids.
- Heartburn or acid reflux: Although common symptoms of other conditions, they could be a warning sign if persistent or worsening over time. If over-the-counter medications do not relieve these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor.
- Abdominal pain: Especially in the upper abdomen. This pain may be mild initially and become more severe and constant over time.
- The feeling of bloating: Particularly after meals. You may feel that your stomach is full of gas or liquid, causing discomfort.
- Blood in stools: Stools may appear black or contain visible blood. Black, tarry stools may indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract.
- Unexplained fatigue: Extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest. This fatigue may be related to anaemia caused by chronic bleeding from the tumour.
- The sensation of a lump in the abdomen: In more advanced stages, you may feel a mass or lump in the upper abdomen.
- Jaundice: Although less common, a yellowish discolouration of the skin and eyes may sometimes occur.
Again, these symptoms are not exclusive to stomach cancer and may be related to other less severe conditions. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms persistently, it’s essential to consult your doctor.
When should you consult a specialist?
You should see your GP if:
- You experience any of the mentioned symptoms for more than two weeks.
- You notice a progressive worsening of symptoms.
- You have a family history of stomach cancer and present any of these symptoms.
- You observe blood in your stools or vomit.
- You experience significant weight loss without an apparent cause.
- You have persistent or worsening abdominal pain.
- You have difficulty swallowing that progressively worsens.
Your doctor will assess your symptoms and, if necessary, refer you to a gastroenterology specialist for more specific tests.
Diagnostic tests
If your doctor suspects stomach cancer, they may request the following tests:
- Upper endoscopy: This is the most important test for diagnosis. It allows direct visualisation of the stomach’s interior and the taking of biopsies if necessary. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach.
- Blood tests can detect anaemia, which may indicate stomach bleeding. Other markers suggesting the presence of a tumour may also be checked.
- Imaging tests: Tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to determine the extent of the tumour if its presence is confirmed. These tests can show if the cancer has spread to other organs or lymph nodes.
- Endoscopic ultrasound combines endoscopy with ultrasound to obtain detailed images of the stomach wall layers and surrounding tissues.
- PET-CT: In some cases, this test may be used to assess the extent of the disease or to plan treatment.
Prevention and early detection
Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer, you can reduce your risk by following these recommendations:
- Maintain a balanced diet: Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in antioxidants and may help protect against cancer.
- Reduce processed food intake: Limit consumption of smoked, salted, and preserved foods, which have been linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer.
- Avoid smoking and moderate alcohol consumption: Tobacco is a significant risk factor for many types of cancer, including stomach cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity has been associated with a higher risk of several cancers, including stomach cancer.
- Treat stomach conditions properly: If you have symptoms of chronic reflux or ulcers, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.
- Consider Helicobacter pylori eradication: If diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection, follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment to eliminate the bacteria.
- Regular check-ups: If you have a family history of stomach cancer or other significant risk factors, talk to your doctor about the possibility of regular screenings.
Early detection of stomach cancer can make a significant difference in prognosis and treatment options. Paying attention to early symptoms and consulting a healthcare professional is crucial. Although some of these symptoms may seem mild or attributable to common digestive issues, their persistence or worsening should prompt a medical consultation.
Conclusion
At HM Hospitals, we have a multidisciplinary team of gastroenterology and oncology specialists equipped with the most advanced technology for the diagnosis and treatment of stomach cancer. Our comprehensive approach allows us to provide accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment plans for each patient.
Your health is the most important thing. If you have any doubts or experience any of the mentioned symptoms, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to care for you and provide the best possible medical care. Early detection can save lives, so don’t ignore the signals your body sends.
Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.
