November is an important month for health awareness—it’s Stomach Cancer Awareness Month

Stomach cancer, the 5th most common cancer globally, saw over 968,784 new cases in 2022. 

According to World Cancer Research International, India is the 3rd country to have 64,611 Stomach Cancer Incidences with 4.5 ASR (age-standardized rate) in 2022. Additionally, the American Cancer Society predicts 26,890 new cases and 10,880 deaths in the US in 2024. 

This month, we're raising awareness, sharing essential facts, and empowering everyone. It brings feelings of fear, uncertainty, and helplessness. Awareness is crucial because early detection significantly improves survival rates.

This blog aims to educate readers about the Risk Factors and Symptoms and Discover ways to raise Stomach Cancer Awareness.

Ready to learn and join the cause? Let’s go!

Understanding Stomach Cancer

stomach cancer

First things first: What is Stomach Cancer?

Simply put, Stomach Cancer, also known as Gastric Cancer, occurs when abnormal cells in the stomach grow out of control, forming anywhere in the stomach. Stomach cancer, the fifth most common cancer globally and the third leading cause of cancer death, affects around 27,000 US residents annually.

In the U.S., most cases involve abnormal cell growth at the gastroesophageal junction, while in other countries, it usually forms in the main stomach part. Around 95% of stomach with cancer starts in the lining and progresses slowly. Untreated, it can form a tumor and spread to nearby organs like the liver and pancreas. 

This is why Stomach Cancer with Awareness and Early Detection are important, as early-stage cases have a 68% 5-year survival rate, while spread leads to a 31% survival rate.

Key Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer

Risk for Stomach Cancer

What puts someone at risk for Stomach Cancer? While anyone can get it, certain factors can increase the risk:

  1. Age: Most cases happen in people over 50.
  2. Sex: Stomach with cancer is more common in men than in women.
  3. Diet: High intake of salty, fermented, pickled, preseved, and smoked foods, and low intake of fruits and vegetables.
  4. Family History: People with first cousins (parents, siblings, or children) who have had stomach cancer are more likely to develop this disease
  5. Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium, found in the stomach, causes stomach inflammation and ulcers and is a major risk factor.
  6. Smoking Tobacco: Smoking tobacco increases your risk of getting stomach cancer.  Around 15 out of 100 (around 15%) stomach cancers in the UK.
  7. Alcohol: Stomach cancer risk is higher in people who drink 3 or more units of alcohol each day.
  8. Obesity: Around 5 out of 100 stomach cancers (more than 5%) in the UK are caused by being overweight. 
  9. Previous Stomach Surgery: Having had stomach surgery can slightly raise the risk.
  10. Certain occupations: Workers in the coal, metal, and rubber industries seem to have a higher risk of getting stomach cancer.

While some of these are beyond our control, other factors, like diet and lifestyle, are things we can work on. Making healthy changes now can help reduce risk and even save lives.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Wondering What are the symptoms of Stomach Cancer? Good question! Here are some signs to keep an eye on. These are the signs that are found in the early stage:

  1. Losing Your Appetite?
  2. Frequent Nausea or Vomiting
  3. Persistent Heartburn or Acid Reflux
  4. Feeling Bloated or Gassy After Meals
  5. Indigestion or Discomfort in the Upper Stomach

These are the signs that are found in advanced stomach cancer (cancer has spread beyond the stomach to other parts of the body): 

  1. Difficulty or Pain Swallowing Food or Drink
  2. Dropping Weight without workouts
  3. Dark Stools or Blood When You Vomit
  4. Pain in the abdominal
  5. Yellowing of eyes and skin  
  6. Fluid formation in the abdomen (Ascites) 

If you’re noticing these symptoms, early Stomach Cancer Screening can be life-saving. Also, now there are also advanced Invasive and Non-Invasive Treatments like Immunotherapy, Electrosurgery, Surgery, Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy.  

How to Support Stomach Cancer Awareness Month

So, how can you get involved in Stomach Cancer Awareness Month? Here’s a list of ways to make a difference this November:

  1. Spread the Word on Social Media: Share this blog! Create and share posts, reels, and videos with hashtags like #StomachCancer Awareness and #FightStomachCancer #StomachCancerwithAwareness to spread the word.
  2. Donate to Cancer Research Organizations: Contribute to organizations focused on stomach cancer research and patient support. 
  3. Host a Fundraiser: Organize a local event, bake sale, or virtual fundraiser to raise money and awareness.
  4. Share Personal Stories: If you or someone you know has been impacted by stomach cancer, sharing that story can provide hope and raise awareness.
  5. Attend Educational Events or webinars: Many cancer organizations host events or webinars. Take part to learn more and show support.
  6. Wear Periwinkle Blue: The color for Stomach Cancer Awareness is periwinkle blue. Wearing it or using it in your social media profiles can be a simple yet effective way to start conversations and show solidarity.

Every small effort adds up, and your involvement could encourage someone else to seek help or catch their symptoms early.

Organisations Making an Impact

Looking to support organizations that are making a difference in Stomach Cancer with Awarness and Research

Many organizations worldwide are making a powerful impact in the fight against Stomach Cancer with Awareness. They focus on raising awareness, funding research, and providing critical resources to patients and families affected by this disease. 

These organizations work tirelessly to improve early detection methods, develop more effective treatments, and support those having stomach with cancer on their journey. Through educational programs, support networks, and advocacy efforts. 

They strive to reduce stigma, empower patients, and encourage communities to take proactive steps toward Stomach Cancer prevention.

Together, these efforts are creating hope and driving change in the lives of countless individuals.

Conclusion

November is all about fighting stomach cancer with awareness. From understanding risk factors to spotting symptoms early, we can all play a part. Whether you’re sharing information, supporting loved ones, or donating to research, every little bit counts. So let’s make this month meaningful and join the fight against stomach cancer!

Take the First Step Towards Healing: Explore Innovative, Non-Invasive Stomach Cancer Treatment, Patient-Centered Approach, High Success Rates, Expert Medical Team with Oxymed Hospital Today.

Remember, early detection saves lives!

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