Stomach cancer is one of the most common oncological diseases worldwide, ranking sixth in global cancer incidence. Because this type of cancer develops in areas that are difficult to examine through routine checkups and may progress without pain for a long time, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. However, there are so-called “red flags” — symptoms that should prompt an immediate visit to a doctor.
Oncologist, chemotherapy specialist, and surgeon at the Rasvet Clinic, Ruslan Absalyamov, explained to Vechernyaya Moskva that stomach cancer, like many other cancers, does not have strictly specific symptoms. Therefore, any signs of dyspepsia (digestive disorders) should be considered a reason to consult a gastroenterologist.
These symptoms include:
Difficulty swallowing
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Heartburn
Stomach irritation or discomfort
Bloating
Constipation
Diarrhea
According to the specialist, unexplained weight loss, persistent weakness, constant pain, and the appearance of dense masses in soft tissues may indicate a more advanced stage of the disease.
Despite this, stomach cancer can be prevented, the oncologist emphasized.
“In more than 90 percent of cases, stomach cancer is represented by adenocarcinoma, meaning it develops from glandular cells,” Absalyamov explained. “Today, we know that the dominant risk factor is infection with Helicobacter pylori, a carcinogenic bacterium that leads to chronic gastritis. In some patients, a cascade of changes in the gastric mucosa can eventually result in cancer.”
For this reason, doctors strongly recommend that anyone experiencing digestive problems discuss testing for Helicobacter pylori with a gastroenterologist. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly reduce the risk of developing stomach cancer.
