Stomach cancer (patient information)
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What is stomach cancer
Stomach cancer is a common digestive system cancer in some Asia areas such as Japan and China. But in the United States, each year the number of people diagnosed with the disease is declining. Stomach cancer is cancer that occurs in the stomach which is responsible for receiving and holding the food you eat and then helping to break down and digest it. Gastric cancer is another term for this disease. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of stomach cancer. The disease begins on the surface of the gastric mucosa. If not treated, the cancer invades more deeply into the muscular layerand nearby tissues. The cancer cells can spread by breaking away from the original (primary) tumor. They enter blood vessels or lymph vessels, which branch into all the tissues of the body. The cancer cells may attach to other tissues and grow to form new tumors that may damage those tissues.
How do I know if I have stomach cancer and what are the symptoms of stomach cancer?
Who is at risk for stomach cancer?
It is hard to diagnose stomach cancer in its early stages. Indigestion and stomach discomfort can be symptoms of early cancer, but other problems can cause the same symptoms. In advanced cases, there may be blood in your stool, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, jaundice or trouble swallowing.
How to know you have stomach cancer?
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for stomach cancer
Directions to Hospitals Treating stomach cancer