Prevention & Early Detection Of Stomach Cancer
Logan Pallas
At one time, stomach cancer was the most common type of cancer
known in the United States. As the years progressed, the
disease became less common among patients. While there are no
definitive answers as to why, it’s thought to be related to the
decline in salted or smoked food intake. Even with the decline
in cases, this disease still presents a serious problem
throughout the nation and the rest of the world.
While studies are unclear, some experts recommend a balanced
diet to fighting against cancer development. In addition,
researchers believe that damaged DNA in the stomach cells may
lead to cancer. A large majority of individuals are infected by
a bacteria known as H. pylori, which resides in the stomach. It
is unknown how this bacteria is transmitted, but it is believed
to be spread from individuals or through drinking water. H.
pylori causes ulcers and may also be a leading cause of stomach
cancer.
Foods, which include nitrates, are also of concern among cancer
researchers. Foods such as hot dogs, certain deli meats, bacon
and ham contain substances known to cause stomach cancer, as
does red meat, and smoked or salted foods. Certain foods are
believed to protect against stomach cancer, including fruits or
vegetables. Items such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes and carrots
are especially helpful in the prevention of this disease.
Perhaps one of the most troubling facts about the disease is
that stomach cancer is difficult to diagnose. A cancerous tumor
may be quite large by the time that it is diagnosed due to the
lack of symptoms associated with stomach cancer. When present,
the most common signs include upper abdominal pain, especially
after eating. Other symptoms include bleeding, weight loss and
general weakness. Patients who experience early fullness when
eating should also be on alert as this may be a symptom of the
stomach’s inability to expand due to the presence of a tumor.
If left untreated, the cancer cells can spread quickly to other
parts of the body and cause even further damage. Part of the
problem is that, like many other illnesses, the symptoms sound
very similar to those of other ailments. The presence of one or
more of these does not necessarily confirm the presence of
cancer, but it should cause the individual to be alert to the
possibility.
Studies show that men are twice as likely to develop stomach
cancer and is most common in individuals from age 40 to 80.
This disease is rarely present in individuals 40 years of ago
or younger. In addition, the use of tobacco and alcohol are
perhaps the most obvious cancer causing agents. Studies have
shown that both men and woman are more likely to develop
stomach cancer if they smoke. Other factors, including family
history and obesity, can encourage the development of stomach
cancer.
This article should not be construed as professional medical
advice. If you, or someone that you know, is concerned about
the possibility of cancer, you should seek medical attention
immediately. A medical doctor can discuss various options,
prevention and treatment possibilities should the presence of
cancer be detected. A series of tests may be conducted in order
to confirm, or rule out, any such diagnosis and can only be done
by a medical doctor.
About The Author: Dr. Logan Pallas is a cancer researcher and
natural health writer. For more information visit his stomach
cancer directory at
http://www.stomach-cancer.info
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