What is stomach cancer and why is it potentially fatal?

According to the National Cancer Institute, gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, begins when abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably in this vital organ. In Mexico, more than 9,000 new cases were reported in 2022, making it the sixth most common type of cancer in the country, and with more than 7,000 deaths that year. The Ministry of Health highlights that between 6,000 and 8,000 cases are detected each year, and that around 70% are diagnosed in advanced stages.

Diagnosis is often complicated because the initial symptoms mimic common ailments such as gastritis or indigestion. Conventional treatments often fail to improve the condition, making it essential for people over 50 with persistent symptoms to consult a specialist and undergo tests such as an endoscopy.

Read: Women's Welfare Pension: Reasons why your registration could be rejected. Early symptoms of stomach cancer.

According to official medical sources such as the US National Cancer Institute, Early symptoms include indigestion, feeling full with little food, heartburn, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Already in advanced stages, Blood in stool, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) may occur. Mexican sources, such as INFOCáncer and the Nuevo León Ministry of Health, reaffirm that these signs can be confused with common digestive disorders, which delays early detection.

Look: SIAPA is a "disaster": Laura Haro

Treatment options for gastric cancer

In Mexico and globally, treatment typically includes a combination of:

• Surgery (such as partial or total gastrectomy).
• Chemotherapy.
• Radiotherapy,
• Targeted therapies and immunotherapy, depending on the type of tumor and its progression.

The Nuevo León Health portal also notes that combinations of these therapies are used, depending on the patient's condition. In the United States, the National Cancer Institute details even more options, such as immunotherapy and targeted treatments based on specific biomarkers.

*Stay up to date with the news, join our WhatsApp channel .

AO