Stomach Cancer Specialist In Nashik, Maharashtra

Stomach cancer can be classified into several categories based on the originating cells:

• Adenocarcinoma: This is the most prevalent form, accounting for 90–95% of cases. It develops in the glandular cells of the stomach lining.
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): Rare tumors that originate in the interstitial cells of Cajal within the stomach wall.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors: These arise from hormone-producing cells of the stomach and vary in malignancy.
• Lymphomas: Cancers that develop from the immune system’s lymphatic tissue within the stomach.

In its initial stages, stomach cancer may not present noticeable symptoms. As the disease advances, individuals might experience:

• Persistent Indigestion and Heartburn: Ongoing discomfort or burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Occasionally accompanied by blood.
• Difficulty Swallowing: A sensation of food being stuck in the throat or chest.
• Unintended Weight Loss: Losing weight without changes in diet or activity.
• Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: Especially in the upper abdomen.
• Bloating After Meals: Feeling full after consuming small amounts of food.

Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing stomach cancer:

• Helicobacter pylori Infection: A common bacterial infection that can lead to ulcers and increase cancer risk.
• Dietary Choices: Consuming a diet high in salty, smoked, or pickled foods.
• Tobacco and Alcohol Use: Both have been linked to a higher incidence of stomach cancer.
• Family History: A genetic predisposition can elevate risk.
• Previous Stomach Surgery: Past surgeries may alter the stomach environment, contributing to cancer development.

To diagnose stomach cancer, medical professionals may utilize:

• Upper Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the throat to examine the stomach lining.
• Biopsy: Tissue samples are collected during an endoscopy for laboratory analysis.
• Imaging Studies: Techniques such as CT scans, PET scans, and X-rays help determine the cancer’s extent.

Stomach cancer progression is categorized into stages:

• Stage 0: Abnormal cells are present but haven’t spread.
• Stage I: Cancer has formed and is limited to the stomach’s inner layers.
• Stage II: The disease has spread deeper into the muscle layer or nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Cancer has penetrated all stomach layers and possibly nearby organs or numerous lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: The cancer has metastasized to distant body parts.

Treatment strategies depend on the cancer’s stage and the patient’s overall health:

• Surgery: Procedures like subtotal (partial) or total gastrectomy remove part or all of the stomach.
• Chemotherapy: Utilizes drugs to target and kill cancer cells, often used before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: Employs high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, sometimes combined with chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific abnormalities in cancer cells to inhibit their growth.
• Immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune response to identify and attack cancer cells.