KARACHI:
Gastric cancer, which is commonly known as stomach cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the stomach that eventually forms a tumour. It is the third most common form of cancer in Pakistan and is more prevalent among men compared to women. It develops slowly and initial changes occur in the inner lining (mucosa) of the stomach. Most people fail to detect the disease early on because early changes do not cause symptoms.
Cancers starting in different parts of the stomach can cause different symptoms and have different outcomes. Some factors that can increase the likelihood of stomach cancer in an individual are family history, smoking, obesity, infection from Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, high salt intake, and unhealthy dietary habits. Symptoms can range from nausea, heartburn, loss of appetite, bloating and feeling tired to vomiting blood in advanced stages.
To identify a tumour in the stomach, radiologic tests are commonly used, and doctors often suggest an ultrasound to assess the stage of cancer. During the early stages when the cancer is limited to the uppermost layers of the stomach, it can be removed through an upper endoscopy. However, once cancer invades beyond the superficial layers, surgery is required. Given the lack of awareness of stomach cancer, health authorities must raise awareness about the disease and prevention methods. People must maintain a healthy diet, which is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in salts and red meats and undertake exercise/running. Also, smoking should be avoided because it increases the risk of stomach cancer as well other cancers.
Yusra Zahid
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 22nd, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
