Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a growth of cells that starts in the stomach. It affects the digestive system, and symptoms can be hard to spot.
The disease can happen in any part of the stomach, with the most common origin being in the stomach body, aka the main part of the stomach. Where the cancer starts is one of the factors that determines treatment.
Anyone can get stomach cancer, and according to the NHS it’s not always clear what causes it. You might be more likely to get stomach cancer if you’re male, over 50, and have a family history of stomach cancer.
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You could also be more at risk if you have a long-term infection with with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Certain stomach conditions like severe acid reflux and gastritis could also put you more at risk.
Early signs and symptoms of stomach cancer
There are many symptoms of stomach cancer, but they can be hard to spot. It’s important to be checked by a GP if your symptoms change, get worse, or do not feel normal for you. The following could be signs of stomach cancer:
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Having problems swallowing (dysphagia)
- Feeling or being sick
- Symptoms of indigestion, such as burping a lot
- Feeling full very quickly when eating
Other symptoms can include loss of appetite or losing weight without trying to, a lump at the top of your tummy, pain at the top of your tummy, and feeling tired or having no energy. If you’re experiencing symptoms of stomach cancer, it doesn’t always mean you have it – but they should not be ignored. In many cases, these symptoms could be caused by something else, such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
What to do if you have any prostate cancer symptoms
The NHS advises you should see your GP if you have problems swallowing, a lump in your tummy, lost a noticeable amount of weight, other symptoms of stomach cancer that get worse or do not get better after three weeks, or a condition that causes symptoms with your digestion that are not getting better after three weeks of using your usual treatments.
If you’re being sick for more than two days or you have symptoms that you’re worried about, but are not sure where to get help, call 111 or go to 111.nhs.uk. For more information and advice head to the NHS website.
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