Definition
Gastric cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the stomach. It is among the most common cancers globally, with incidence varying geographically, and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Pathogenesis
Gastric cancer development is associated with:
- H. pylori infection: Causes chronic inflammation and increases risk.
- Dietary habits: Diets high in salty, smoked, and processed foods raise risk.
- Genetic predisposition: Family history and genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome.
- Risk factors: Chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is via endoscopy with biopsy, confirming malignancy. CT, PET-CT, and endoscopic ultrasound are used for staging and assessing spread.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the disease stage:
- Endoscopic resection: Removal of early-stage tumors locally.
- Surgery: Partial or total gastrectomy for localized or locally advanced stages.
- Chemotherapy: Administered pre-surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or post-surgery to reduce recurrence risk.
- Radiotherapy: In select cases for adjunctive treatment.
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapies: For metastatic or resistant gastric cancer.
Prevention
Prevention includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing H. pylori infection, reducing salty and processed food consumption, and quitting smoking and alcohol. Regular screening is recommended for high-risk individuals.
Early diagnosis and effective treatment are critical for improving survival and quality of life.