Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, starts in the cells lining the stomach and might progress unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage. Photos Courtesy: istock/pixabay
Certain behaviours such as smoking and excessive alcohol intake have been closely linked to this malignant disease. Additionally, diet plays an equally pivotal role. A diet high in smoked, pickled, and salted foods and low in fresh fruit and vegetables can lead to this type of cancer.
Unexplained weight loss can also mark the onset of stomach cancer. Other warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention include severe anemia caused by bleeding in the stomach and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). Remember, early detection significantly enhances survival chances. Do not ignore the symptoms at all.
Having repeated stomach discomfort, which may include symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting can wear you mentally and physically. It's not just about dismissing these as common gastric problems or stress. These could be your body's cry for help signaling something major such as stomach cancer.
The noticeable symptoms like loss of appetite, and sudden weight loss might appear harmless initially but are often warnings. In extreme cases, vomiting, indigestion, and discomfort in swallowing might act as alarming signs of this cancer. People above 55 years are at risk of suffering from stomach cancer. All genders, including males and females, can suffer from this type of cancer.
A high-fibre plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains can significantly bolster gut health by improving digestion and fostering a healthy microbiome - the millions of microorganisms that inhabit our digestive tract. These microscopic allies aid in breaking down food compounds, some of which may have anti-cancer properties. Limiting intake of processed and sugar-laden foods might lower one's susceptibility to cancers associated with the stomach or digestive system.
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