Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also known asgastric cancer, is a malignant tumor that arises from the lining of the stomach. Most stomach cancers develop slowly over many years, often beginning as precancerous changes in the gastric mucosa before progressing into invasive cancer.

The stomach is a hollow muscular organ located in the upper abdomen that plays a critical role in digestion. Cancer can develop in any part of the stomach, but it most commonly affects thebody and antrum. In recent years, cancers near thegastro-esophageal junctionhave become more common.

Types

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

  • Most common type (≈75–85%)

  • Originates from hepatocytes

• Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

  • Arises from bile ducts within the liver

  • More aggressive, poorer prognosis

• Hepatoblastoma

  • Rare

  • Occurs mainly in children

• Colon

• Lung

• Breast

• Pancreas

(Metastatic tumors are more common than primary liver cancer.)

Stages

• Small tumor(s)

• Confined to the liver

• Liver function relatively preserved

• Potentially curable

• Multiple tumors

• No distant spread

• Limited treatment options

• Invasion into blood vessels

• Spread to lymph nodes or distant organs

• Symptoms more severe

• Poor liver function

• Extensive tumor burden

• Palliative care focus

Risk Factors

1. ChronicHepatitis B or C infection

2. Liver cirrhosis (any cause)

3. Alcohol-related liver disease

4. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

5. Diabetes and obesity

6. Exposure toaflatoxins(contaminated food)

7. Smoking

8. Family history of liver cancer

Symptoms

• Right upper abdominal pain or discomfort

• Unexplained weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Fatigue and weakness

• Abdominal swelling (ascites)

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

• Nausea or vomiting

• Easy bruising or bleeding

Diagnosis

Facts (FAQ)

Q1: Can liver cancer be prevented?
Yes. Vaccination against Hepatitis B, early treatment of Hepatitis C, avoiding excessive alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduce risk.

Q2: Is liver cancer curable?
Early-stage liver cancer may be curable with surgery or transplantation. Advanced stages are usually not curable but treatable.

Q3: Who should be screened?
People with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or long-term liver disease should undergo regular screening.

Q4: Does liver cancer grow fast?
Growth rate varies. Some tumors progress slowly, while others are aggressive.