While people shrug it off by simply calling it acidity or a mild indigestion, it might be worrying. Because what seems so mild can actually be stomach cancer. The irony is that most people do not know that it exists. They treat stomach problems with remedies at home or through OTC pills. And today, stomach cancer is not an individual concern or a health issue that affects 'one in many'. India, at present, is gripped by rising stomach cancer. According to a study published in Nature Medicine, a sharp spike is expected in gastric (stomach) cancer among those born between 2007 to 2017. India will be the second-worst-affected country after China, with an estimated 1.65 million cases. So, instead of assumptions, let's get this right!
Dr. Atul Shende emphasizes a healthy lifestyle with frequent screening to prevent stomach cancer Renowned Gastroenterologist, Dr Atul Shende, Gut n Hepa Care, Indore, with 23 years of dedicated service and expertise in peptic ulcers, liver disease treatment, and therapeutic endoscopy, has all the answers to your stomach cancer queries:
The major cause of stomach cancer is a stomach infection called Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori), which is declared a deadly carcinogen by the WHO (World Health Organization). It leads to chronic inflammation and is the reason behind 76% of future cases. Dr. Atul Shende affirms, "If an individual harbors H. Pylori in the stomach, then they stand at a higher risk of stomach cancer."
Dr. Shende states that this is not a sudden paradigm shift that has led to rising stomach cancer cases. He says, "We are eating all the same, which we have been for years. But now with pollutants, microplastics, insecticides, and pesticides. The change in environmental conditions, along with food production and consumption, is largely responsible for gastric issues. If someone takes unnecessary stress and has a sedentary lifestyle without much movement or exercise, there is a risk of them developing stomach cancer early on."
According to Dr. Shende, some stomach cancers can be genetic, such as colon cancers. Certain genetic mutations cause cancer. When the child inherits these, he also develops the cancer."
Is your stomach in crisis? (Image source: The Cancer Center, Singapore)
Dr. Shende reveals the early signs one should watch out for. It starts mild and becomes persistent, then it is time to undergo a medical examination.
What next?
If there are any visible signs like this, then it is time to act early. But there is nothing to worry about, as 75 percent of these cases can be prevented. Dr. Shende states one to opt for:
Dr. Shende adds, "We check on the organic symptoms first, such as weight loss, early satiety, etc. Accordingly, we conduct a medical examination. If the findings are positive, further treatment follows with an endoscopy. If the patient is a child of tender age or is old without any addiction, we start thereupon after the early symptoms."
Stomach cancer is a silent, looming crisis in India, which is no longer an individual concern. It is a national health issue that needs to be addressed more thoroughly, with awareness among the citizens. Because if stomach pain persists for long, it is not 'normal' and needs attention. Give a thought, have a word on the table, and get screened regularly to fight the biggest health challenge of tomorrow!
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