Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is a type of gastrointestinal cancer. It usually begins as a precancerous condition and slowly advances over time. The most common type of stomach cancer affects the lining inside the stomach.

At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, we target stomach cancer from different approaches to help ensure your survival and best quality of life. Our patients can expect a blend of cutting-edge cancer treatments and naturopathic medicine. As the first comprehensive cancer treatment center in northern Indiana, we provide complete care for stomach cancer – from diagnosis to post-treatment recovery.

Stomach cancer symptoms

When stomach cancer is a precancerous condition, it doesn’t cause any symptoms. People with stomach cancer often notice symptoms after the cancer has advanced.

In the later stages, symptoms may appear as:

• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Vague discomfort in the abdomen
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Anemia
• Nausea or vomiting that may be bloody
• Loss of appetite or feeling full or bloated after small amounts of food
• Unintended weight loss
• Weakness or fatigue

Some noncancerous conditions cause these symptoms. Tell your doctor about any changes. Early diagnosis often leads to better treatment outcomes.

What causes stomach cancer?

The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown. However, research suggests that certain factors increase your risk, including:

• Diet high in salted or smoked foods
• Obesity
• Smoking and alcohol use
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterial infection that can cause ulcers
• Anemia, chronic gastritis and other medical conditions
• Over age 50
• Family history of stomach cancer
• Male gender

You can take certain steps to lower your risk for stomach cancer, and Goshen Health is here to help with smoking cessation and weight loss programs.

Treatment for stomach cancer at Goshen Center for Cancer Care

Staging stomach cancer – or knowing the tumor’s specific location and other unique characteristics – is the first step to creating a personalized treatment plan. For all stages, surgery is usually a main treatment. Your treatment team may recommend radiation therapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy to destroy cancer cells.

Stomach cancer treatment at Goshen Center for Cancer Care is always integrative, meaning we combine different treatments to take care of you mentally and physically.