Stomach Cancer: Recognizing the Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Each year, about 24,000 Americans are diagnosed with stomach cancer. One of the major challenges with stomach cancer is that its symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has reached an advanced stage. At this point, it becomes much harder to treat. However, if caught early, the five-year survival rate is a promising 90%. But if detected late, the rate drops dramatically to just 3%.
Steps to Prevent Stomach Cancer
Recognizing the early warning signs can be a key strategy in preventing stomach cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, some of the most common symptoms to watch for include:
– Persistent heartburn– Ongoing abdominal discomfort and pain– Frequent indigestion– Nausea and vomiting– Episodes of diarrhea– Feeling bloated after meals– Constipation– Loss of appetite– Constant tiredness– Unusual bleeding (such as blood in the stool or blood when vomiting)
Factors That Contribute to Stomach Cancer
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing stomach cancer:
– Family history of stomach cancer– Being over 55 years old– Men are two-thirds more likely than women to get stomach cancer– Heavy alcohol consumption– Diets high in smoked, dried, salted, and pickled foods– Smoking– Previous stomach surgery– Infection with Helicobacter pylori
When to See a Doctor
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your doctor as soon as possible. You may need to see a gastroenterologist for further tests.
Stay informed and proactive about your health. Early detection can make a significant difference.
