Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer is a cancer that's found anywhere in the stomach. The information provided on this page is focused on adenocarcinoma - which is 95% of all stomach cancers.
Less common kinds of cancer that can start in the stomach include soft tissue sarcomas, lymphomas and carcinoid tumors.
Risk factors and causes
Common early symptoms of stomach cancer can include...
+ persistent heartburn or indigestion
+ burping a lot
+ loss of appetite
+ feeling full after only a small amount of food
+ weight loss
You might also...
+ feel some pain or have swelling in the upper tummy
+ feel sick
+ have difficulty swallowing
+ have black poo
+ feel tired or breathless
+ have hiccups a lot
These symptoms are often caused by other conditions. However, it is important to have them checked by your GP who might want to arrange tests or provide a referral to a specialist.
Anyone can get stomach cancer and the causes are not always known. However, you might be more likely to get it if you...
+ Are over the age of 50
+ Have a long-term infection with Helicobacter pylori
+ Have stomach conditions such as long-term, severe acid reflux, gastritis
+ Have pernicious anaemia, which affects your immune system
+ Have a close relative who had stomach cancer
+ Smoke or drink alcohol
+ Don't eat enough fresh fruit and vegetables
+ Consume too much salt
+ Eat a lot of processed meat
It is also known to be statistically twice more likely to affect men, but it is worth paying attention to any unusual symptoms regardless of gender.
Have you been diagnosed with stomach
or any other kind of cancer?
Symptoms
Treatments
After a stomach cancer diagnosis please remember that there are treaments available and you are not alone.
The main treatments are usually surgery and chemotherapy. Radiotherapy and targeted therapy treatments might also be used. The treatments can be used alone or in combination with each other.
A team of specialists will use the results of your futher tests and work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you. They will look after you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
There are also many charities and support groups dedicated to helping you navigate through your cancer journey. We as Sam's Diamonds provide social media as well as in person support, information, meet-ups and much more! Click here to become a Diamond.
Cites Sources
“Causes of stomach cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-cancer/causes/.
“Risks and causes of stomach cancer.” Cancer Research UK, https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/stomach-cancer/causes-risks.
“Stomach Cancer - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment | NORD.” National Organization for Rare Disorders, 12 May 2021, https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/stomach-cancer/.
“Symptoms of stomach cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stomach-cancer/symptoms/.