Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is one of the most common cancers worldwide and a major cause of cancer-related deaths.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent vomiting, especially when the tumor causes gastric outlet obstruction
• Non-bilious vomiting containing undigested food 3–4 hours after meals
• Blood in vomitus (hematemesis)
• Black stools (melena)
• Weakness and fatigue due to anemia
• Pain or lump in upper abdomen
• Loss of appetite and weight loss

Diagnosis

• Upper GI Endoscopy with biopsy
• CT Scan abdomen for staging
• Blood investigations

Treatment

Surgery is the main treatment when the tumor is operable.

• Radical distal gastrectomy
• Subtotal gastrectomy
• Total gastrectomy

The type of surgery depends on tumor location and stage of disease.