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Stomach cancer: a deadly disease that is often overlooked

the main points:
Stomach cancer: an overview
Stomach cancer poses a greater risk with age, and men are twice as likely to develop this condition as women.

Warning signs and symptoms
Gas, bloating, persistent indigestion, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and chest pain can indicate stomach cancer.

Surgical intervention: endoscopic resection
Laparoscopic resection is standard surgery for early-stage gastric cancer, providing rapid recovery and minimal wound complications.
Understanding stomach cancer
Stomach cancer arises from irregular growth of cells in stomach tissue, and can potentially spread to nearby organs. Successful treatment is possible if the cancer originates in specific locations within the stomach.

Causes and risk factors
While the exact cause is unknown, factors such as high blood pressure, triglyceride levels, smoking, obesity, and diabetes contribute to the risk of stomach cancer.

Recognize the symptoms
Stomach cancer in its early stages often shows few symptoms, underscoring the importance of vigilance. Persistent gas, bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and chest discomfort after eating should warrant medical attention.

Diagnostic methods
Review medical history and physical examination.
Analysis through blood count, defibrillation test and stool samples.
Barium swallow, gastroscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, CT scan, and positron emission tomography for accurate diagnosis and staging.
Methods of Treatment
Early stage cancer:

Endoscopic treatment achieves high success rates.
Cancer growth without spreading:

Surgery to remove the cancer and lymph nodes, possibly followed by chemotherapy.
Spreads to nearby organs:

Intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy surgery to improve chances of survival.
Late stage or spread to other organs:

Chemotherapy to manage symptoms.
Surgical options
Open or laparoscopic surgery, the latter is preferred in early stage or less advanced cases. Laparoscopic surgery ensures faster recovery and shorter hospital stay, requiring skilled surgeons.
Combined approach: chemotherapy and surgery
Consider chemotherapy along with surgery to reduce recurrence and prevent spread.
Side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting and fatigue, which necessitates proper rest, a balanced diet and a positive environment.
The importance of follow-up
Immediate follow-up is essential for successful treatment.
Attending all doctor appointments ensures proper monitoring and management of stomach cancer.
In conclusion, gastric cancer requires early detection, recognition of symptoms, and a comprehensive approach to treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and meticulous post-treatment care. Laparoscopic resection is emerging as a suitable option due to its effectiveness in managing early stage cases.

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