Stomach Cancer

What is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, develops when abnormal cells in the stomach lining grow uncontrollably. The stomach, located in the upper abdomen, plays a key role in digesting food. Gastric cancer can affect any part of the stomach, most commonly the main body.

The type and location influence symptoms and treatment approaches.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our multidisciplinary team manages gastric cancer with a patient-centred approach.

Causes of Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

The exact cause is not fully understood, but most cases begin with damage to the stomach lining, leading to abnormal cell growth. Key causes and risk factors include:

Helicobacter pylori infection: Chronic infection with this bacterium can cause gastritis and increase the risk of gastric cancer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Persistent acid reflux can damage the stomach and oesophagus lining.
Diet high in salty and smoked foods: These foods may irritate the stomach lining and contribute to gastric cell changes.
Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gastric and other cancers.
Family history and genetic syndromes: Inherited conditions such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis increase risk.
Stomach polyps: Some noncancerous growths can become malignant over time.

When the stomach lining is damaged, abnormal cells may multiply and form a tumour. These cancer cells can invade deeper layers and spread (metastasise) to other organs, such as the liver or lymph nodes.

Gastric Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

Gastric cancer often develops gradually and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. When gastric symptoms do appear, they can be non-specific and similar to other digestive issues.

Common gastric symptoms and signs include:

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Abdominal or gastric pain and discomfort
Feeling bloated after eating
Early satiety (feeling full after small meals)
Loss of appetite
Heartburn or persistent indigestion
Nausea and vomiting
Unintentional weight loss
Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
Black-coloured stools (a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract)

As the disease progresses, more severe gastric symptoms may develop, such as vomiting blood, significant weight loss, and visible swelling of the abdomen. If the cancer spreads, symptoms may relate to the affected organs, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) if the liver is involved, or lumps if lymph nodes are affected.

Risk Factors for Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing gastric cancer:

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection
Ongoing gastroesophageal reflux disease
Diets high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods
Low intake of fruits and vegetables
Smoking
Chronic gastritis
Family history of gastric cancer or related genetic syndromes
Presence of stomach polyps

Not everyone with these risk factors will develop gastric cancer. Adopting a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and seeking medical advice for ongoing gastric symptoms can help reduce risk.

Prevention Tips

To lower your risk of gastric cancer:

Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Limit salty and smoked foods
Stop smoking
Discuss family history with your healthcare provider
Consider screening if you have a strong family history or genetic predisposition

Early detection and lifestyle changes can play a significant role in prevention.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent gastric symptoms such as abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or black stools, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and improve outcomes. Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) offers comprehensive assessment and support for individuals with gastric concerns.

FAQs About Stomach Cancer Causes and Symptoms

Yes, early stomach cancer symptoms often resemble common digestive problems like gastritis or indigestion, making early detection challenging.

Sudden symptoms such as vomiting blood or black stools may indicate advanced stomach cancer and require immediate medical attention.

No, stomach cancer does not always cause pain, especially in the early stages. Some people may have no discomfort at all.

There is no scientific evidence linking stress or anxiety directly to the development of stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer often develops slowly and may not affect nerves or organs until it is more advanced. This means early changes in the stomach lining can go unnoticed, and symptoms may only appear when the cancer grows larger or spreads.

Yes, adopting a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, reducing intake of salty and smoked foods, and avoiding tobacco can help lower the risk. Regular check-ups and addressing persistent digestive symptoms early are also important preventive steps.

A family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic syndromes increases the risk. People with a strong family history should discuss screening and preventive strategies with their healthcare provider.