This type of cancer develops in the digestive system, sometimes called the gut or gastro intestinal tract, in the bag-like structure that lies at the end of the gullet - the stomach.
Types of stomach cancer
The most common type is an adenocarcinoma - which starts in the glands of the stomach Leiomyosracoma - starts in the muscle layer of the stomach Gastro intestinal stromal tumour, or GIST - starts in the tissue that supports the organs of the gut Lymphomas can sometimes affect the stomach, but strictly speaking these are not gut tumours and have a very different type of treatment.What can cause stomach cancer?
The main causes of stomach cancer are unknown, although smoked fish, meats and pickled foods are thought to increase risk.
It is much more common in men than in women and more common in people who have the stomach disorder atrophic gastritis, Heliocobacter pylori and pernicious anaemia.
Symptoms of stomach cancer Persistent indigestion Loss of appetite Difficulty in swallowing Weight loss A bloated feeling after eating Nausea and/or vomiting Heartburn Blood in the stools or black stools Tiredness
If you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have stomach cancer.
What the GP may do
Your GP will examine you and may carry out one or more of the following tests:
Tests for stomach cancer Endoscopy - a camera is put into your stomach and pictures are taken to look for anything abnormal Barium meal - you will be asked to drink a special liquid and then an x-ray will be taken to look at your gullet and stomach. Computerised tomography (CT) - this is a special type of x-ray that gives very detailed pictures of the area to be examined Ultrasound - uses sound waves to build up a picture of the area the doctor wants to view Is Treatment available?
Treatment is available, but will be dependant on the type and extent of the disease. This will be discussed and decided with you, by your oncologist. It could include chemotherapy, and/or surgery.
Concerned about stomach cancer?
If you have any concerns about stomach cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on infocis@ulstercancer.org