What you need to know about stomach cancer: Symptoms, Risk factors, Screening and Treatment

Understanding Stomach Cancer

According to the Health Promotion Board, stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in men and the seventh most common cancer in women in Singapore.

Risk factors for Stomach Cancer

Consuming foods high in nitrates, like corned beef, can elevate the risk of developing stomach cancer. Other factors that increase this risk include eating pickled or heavily salted foods, having stomach ulcers, smoking, drinking alcohol, and experiencing stomach infections. However, you can lower your risk of stomach cancer by making some straightforward lifestyle changes. Incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet, along with avoiding alcohol and smoking, can help maintain a healthier stomach.

Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

a painful or burning sensation in the abdomen.
heartburn or indigestion (dyspepsia)
a sense of fullness, even after a small meal.
nausea and/or vomiting.
loss of appetite and/or weight loss.
tiredness or weakness.

What are the screening test for Stomach Cancer?

Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

The doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the tip, inserting it through your esophagus to examine your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the beginning of the small intestine) for signs of cancer. Before having an Upper GI endoscopy, inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, and refrain from eating or drinking for 8-10 hours before the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific preparation instructions—follow them closely to prevent complications during and after the procedure.

Barium Liquid

The doctor will have you drink a Barium liquid, which helps your stomach appear more clearly on an X-ray.

Biopsy

If the doctor notices any abnormal areas in your stomach, they may take tissue samples from those spots to be examined for cancer cells.

Early Stomach Cancer Screening In Singapore Can Save Your Life

Remember, you don’t have to endure stomach cancer—treatment is readily available. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice and undergo a stomach cancer screening as soon as possible. In Singapore, as well as in other countries, stomach cancer screenings are typically painless procedures that don’t require extended hospital stays.

Who should go for screening?

People with strong family history of gastric cancer
People who have had previous stomach surgery
People who have had previous history of H-Pyroli infection

Treatment Of Stomach Cancer

Early screening for stomach cancer allows for effective treatment through surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. If your family doctor recommends a stomach cancer screening at an outpatient clinic or hospital in Singapore due to persistent signs and symptoms, it’s important not to delay the screening.