Gastric Cancer

Stomach cancer is cancer that originates in the cells of the organ called the stomach (gastric). Stomach cancer may not show symptoms at first and may progress insidiously. Therefore, early diagnosis is important.

Gastric cancer usually manifests itself with symptoms such as upper abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, weakness and anemia. However, early diagnosis of stomach cancer can be difficult as these symptoms can be seen in many different diseases.

Stomach cancer is most often caused by a type called adenocarcinoma. However, other types are also available. Risk factors include old age, smoking, alcohol consumption, Helicobacter pylori infection, excessive salt consumption, malnutrition, stomach diseases, and family history.

Treatment for stomach cancer varies depending on the extent and type of cancer and the general health of the patient. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Treatment may be more effective in cases of stomach cancer detected early, so regular medical check-ups are recommended for people with risk factors.

Stomach Cancer Treatment Methods

Gastric cancer treatment may vary depending on the type of cancer, its extent, and the general health of the patient. The following options are available for the treatment of stomach cancer:

Surgical treatment: In the early stages of stomach cancer, surgical intervention can provide complete removal of the cancer. This method is usually used in patients with small cancerous lesions. Surgical intervention can be performed using methods such as gastrectomy (complete removal of the stomach), partial gastrectomy (removal of the cancerous area), laparoscopic surgery, depending on the type of gastric cancer and the extent of the cancer.
Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy is a form of treatment using high-energy rays to destroy cancerous cells. In the treatment of stomach cancer, radiotherapy is usually used after surgery.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a form of treatment used to destroy cancerous cells. Chemotherapy may be administered before or after surgery, depending on the extent of stomach cancer.
Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy involves the use of drugs to target proteins specific to cancer cells. These drugs target cancer cells and kill them without harming normal cells.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a form of treatment that helps the immune system recognize and kill cancer cells.

Gastric cancer treatment depends on the extent and type of cancer and the general health of the patient. Treatment options are more effective in the early stages of the disease and therefore early diagnosis is important. It is recommended that patients talk to their doctor for information about treatment options.

Prof. Dr. Erşan AYGÜN

General Surgery Specialist

Bakırköy/ İstanbul

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