Gastric or stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the world, but due to early testing and new research the amount of people dying from stomach cancer has dropped year by year.
Detecting stomach cancer is challenging, however, due to the fact that most symptoms are similar to a host of other digestive issues.
Am I at risk for gastric cancer?
While any chronic digestive symptom should be looked over by a doctor anyways, there are some crucial risk factors that may make you more likely to have gastric cancer.
These risk factors include:
- Being over the age of 55
- Smoking and drinking
- Obesity
- Previous chronic stomach illnesses
Helicobacter pylori infection
One infection that is especially likely to cause stomach cancer is Helicobacter pylori infection. This infection is most common in young children and can cause damage to your lining without causing obvious symptoms.
If you suffer from chronic nausea, and stomach conditions you may be asked about Helicobacter pylori infection. Fortunately, these infections are increasingly rare in the United States due to food contamination regulations.
Early warning signs of stomach cancer
The truth is, a variety of issues could explain every symptom of stomach cancer. Bloating, back pain, trouble eating or pooping, and nausea are common symptoms.
People who suffer from these symptoms may have not followed a decent diet for a few months and are paying for it. Your sleep is way off so now your body is struggling to hold up. If you are under 45, don’t smoke or drink to clear excess, it’s probably something else.
However, if you are:
- throwing up solid food you just ate
- Your vomit contains blood
- Your poop is covered in tarry blood from the inside
These signs are more common only in cases of stomach cancer or cancer-like diseases.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms chronically, a doctor visit is never a bad idea.
If you have financial questions, please consult this link for more information.
https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/Steps-to-Medi-Cal.aspx
We here at the Surgery Group of Los Angeles are to help you or a loved one if you have specific questions about cancer-related issues. Our team will assist you not just in operating your surgical needs, but help you make billing and insurance simple.
Please speak to a medical professional today about your gastric symptoms.
