Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Though it often develops slowly over time, this disease can become life-threatening if not diagnosed early. Fortunately, early detection, the right treatment, and expert care can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about stomach cancer, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and available treatment options in Hyderabad—guided by expert insights from Dr. K V Dinesh Reddy, a top gastrointestinal oncologist and cancer surgeon in Hyderabad.
What is stomach cancer/gastric cancer?
Cancer is a condition that occurs when the cells in our body start growing in an uncontrolled and abnormal way. When the growth of cancerous cells happens within the stomach, it is called gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer. In India, it is commonly diagnosed in people in the southern and northeastern states of the country with a male predominance.
It generally progresses slowly and may not produce noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, when caught early, stomach cancer can be treated successfully.
What causes stomach cancer?
The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, but there are various risk factors associated with its development.
Lifestyle Causes
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Eating foods high in salt, fat, or that are smoked or pickled
Medical Conditions
- Infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
- Long-term inflammation of the stomach (gastritis)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- History of stomach ulcers
Other Risk Factors
- Family history of stomach cancer
- Obesity
- Exposure to certain substances like rubber, coal, or metal at work
What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?
In the early stages, stomach cancer may not cause any symptoms. As the cancer progresses, you might experience:
Early Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
- Bloating or fullness after eating small meals
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Mild upper belly discomfort
Advanced Stomach Cancer Symptoms
- Persistent stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Black or tarry stools
- Feeling tired or weak all the time
When the cancer cells spread to other parts of the body, it refers to metastatic cancer. It can lead to specific symptoms depending on the affected area. For example, when cancer spreads to the liver it can cause jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. In cases where cancer spreads within the belly, it might cause fluid accumulation and swelling.
It is important to note that many symptoms of stomach cancer are common to other conditions as well. Thus, consult a gastroenterologist in Hyderabad to check if your symptoms are a sign of cancer or another disease.
How Is Stomach Cancer Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects stomach cancer, several tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and see how far the cancer has spread:
- Imaging tests: CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to check the size and location of the cancer
- Endoscopy: to examine the stomach lining and collect tissue samples for biopsy.
- Biopsy: to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the cancer type.
- Blood tests: These help assess overall health, evaluate liver and kidney function, and check for tumor markers like carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) or CA 19-9.
Staging procedures: Additional tests and imaging studies help determine how far the cancer has spread, which is crucial for planning the appropriate treatment.
Gastric cancer treatment in Hyderabad. Is gastric cancer curable?
The majority of patients with early stomach cancer can be cured completely. However, in cases where the condition cannot be cured, treatments may relieve symptoms to prolong the life.
The treatment depends on the location of the cancer within the stomach and the stage of the cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. Here are the commonly advised treatments:
Surgery
It is performed to remove precancerous cells, tumors, or part or all of the stomach, depending on the extent of the cancer.
- Upper endoscopy: In the early stages, when the cancer is limited to the uppermost layers of the stomach, it can be removed through an upper endoscopy procedure. The tumour is cut from the stomach wall and taken out through the mouth.
- Gastrectomy: If the tumour has spread beyond the superficial layers, surgery is required to remove part or the entire stomach. Subtotal gastrectomy refers to the removal of the affected portion, while total gastrectomy refers to the removes of the entire stomach. The oesophagus (food pipe) is connected to the small intestine, allowing normal eating after total gastrectomy.
Other Treatment Options
- Chemotherapy: Medicines to kill cancer cells, used before or after surgery
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams that destroy cancer cells
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell weaknesses
- Immunotherapy: Boosts your immune system to fight cancer, usually for advanced cases
Palliative Care: Focused on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life
When Should You See a Stomach Cancer Specialist?
If you have symptoms like persistent indigestion, stomach pain, vomiting blood, or unexpected weight loss, it’s important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis makes a big difference in treatment success.
Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. That’s why consulting a specialist like Dr. K V Dinesh Reddy, one of Hyderabad’s leading stomach cancer experts, can make a significant difference in your health outcomes.
Book a Consultation with a Leading Stomach Cancer Specialist in Hyderabad
Your health deserves the right attention at the right time. Whether you need a diagnosis, a second opinion, or a personalized treatment plan for stomach cancer, Dr. K V Dinesh Reddy is here to help.
As a skilled gastrointestinal oncologist and cancer surgeon, Dr. Reddy offers advanced diagnostic tools, compassionate care, and treatment strategies tailored to each patient. Take control of your health today—schedule your consultation and move forward with confidence.
