MY MUM HAS STOMACH CANCER
I was told my mum has stomach ulcer. She is sixty years old. Is there any cure? What do we do? Janet, Lokoja
Stomach cancer is not an uncommon form of cancerous growth. It originates from the lining of the stomach. Cancer of the stomach affects men more than women. At about 70 to 80 years of age it is twice more common in men than women. It is not common before the age of fixity. It usually grow slowly over the years. The risk factors include aging, smoking, family history of stomach cancer. Others include diet rich in smoked salted food and less in fresh fruits and vegetables. Being male as mentioned above and infection with bacteria called H pylori. Bing overweight and obese also increase the risk of stomach cancer just like previous surgery for stomach ulcer, like gastrectomy. Exposure to asbestos and working in asbestos, rubber or coal industries. There is genetic predisposition too. Symptoms and signs of stomach cancer include indigestion, heartburns, easy fullness, bloating sensation after feeds, nausea and loss of appetite. As it become more advance, symptoms includes: stomach pains, vomiting , bloody stool, weight loss, weakness, swelling of the stomach among others. Investigations to be done include various blood and stool tests. Also upper GI endoscopy is important, by this direct visualization is done.. Biopsy for definitive diagnosis has to be done. Treatment include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In the early stages, removal of the whole tumor is visible. Sometimes complete gastrectomy, that is removal of the whole stomach has to be done. Where complete removal of the tumor is not visible adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy can be done. You have to take mama to see a surgical oncologist. Though there is need for team work among Upper GI endoscopist, surgeon, medical oncologist, oncology nurse among others. To prevent stomach cancer from developing, one should avoid smoking, take a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, treat infection like H.pylori early and reduce obesity.