Gastric (Stomach) Cancer Treatment in Indore

Gastric Cancer- Stomach Cancer – Detailed Description

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the stomach grow uncontrollably. These cancerous cells can invade deeper layers of the stomach wall, spread to nearby lymph nodes, or metastasise to other organs like the liver and lungs. It is more common in older adults, particularly those over 50 years of age.

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause is often unknown, several factors increase the risk of gastric cancer:

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection – a major cause of chronic gastritis leading to cancer

A diet high in smoked, salty or pickled foods

Smoking and alcohol abuse

Family history of gastric cancer

Chronic gastritis, pernicious anaemia, or gastric polyps

Genetic mutations, such as the CDH1 mutation.

Obesity and previous stomach surgery due to benign conditions

Types of Gastric Cancer

Adenocarcinoma-most common, arising from glandular cells of the stomach lining

Lymphoma - begins in immune cells in the lining of the stomach

Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) - begins in the connective tissue

Carcinoid tumour – originates from hormone-producing cells

Symptoms

Early gastric cancer may not produce noticeable symptoms. Advanced disease can cause:

Persistent indigestion or heartburn

Abdominal pain or discomfort, more so in the upper abdomen.

Nausea or vomiting; vomiting may contain blood

Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss

Feeling full sooner with less food consumed.

Ascites, or swelling of the abdomen from fluid accumulation

Fatigue due to anaemia, caused by chronic bleeding

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by several tests in combination:

Endoscopy (Gastroscopy) – visualises the stomach lining and allows biopsy

Biopsy - to confirm the presence of cancer and the type

CT scan or MRI - evaluates tumour size, location, and spread

EUS (Endoscopic ultrasound) to determine the depth of tumour invasion

Blood tests: anaemia, liver function, and tumour markers

Overview of Treatment

Treatment depends on stage, tumour location, type, and overall health. A multimodal approach is often used.

1. Surgery

Subtotal (partial) gastrectomy – removal of part of the stomach

Total gastrectomy to remove the entire stomach and often reconstruct it

Lymph node removal – to evaluate spread

Surgery is usually performed with the intent of complete tumour removal.

2. Chemotherapy

Used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumours or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate residual cancer cells

Common drugs: fluorouracil, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, capecitabine

3. Radiation Therapy

Commonly combined with chemotherapy, known as chemoradiation, to destroy remaining cancer cells after surgery

It can also relieve symptoms in advanced cases

4. Targeted Therapy

HER2-positive tumours can be treated with trastuzumab.

Other drugs may target VEGF, EGFR, or PD-1 depending on genetic testing.

5. Palliative Care

For advanced or metastatic gastric cancer

Includes the control of pain, stenting to relieve obstruction, nutritional support, and symptom control.

Outcomes

Early-stage gastric cancer is surgically removable and usually has a better prognosis.

Advanced-stage cancer has a lower survival rate, but modern chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and supportive care improve outcomes.

Prognosis depends on the stage, tumour biology, and response to treatment.

Prevention & Monitoring

A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake.

Treat H. pylori infection without delay.

Regular Check-ups for High-risk Individuals, Follow-up care with imaging and endoscopy post-treatment to watch for recurrence