Acıbadem Adana Hospital General Surgery Specialist Assoc. Dr. Orçun Yalav said that stomach cancer ranks 4th in cancer-related deaths worldwide and 5th in our country.
Since stomach cancer does not give symptoms in the early stages, early diagnosis is also difficult. Acıbadem Adana Hospital General Surgery Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Orçun Yalav made statements on the subject and said that the first symptoms of the disease are abdominal pain, heartburn, blood in the stool, fatigue and weakness.
Pointing out that stomach cancer does not show many symptoms in the early stages, so it is diagnosed late, Assoc. Dr. Yalav said, “The main symptoms of cancer are abdominal pain, heartburn, digestive problems such as indigestion, loss of appetite and weight loss. In addition to these, attention should be paid to symptoms such as bleeding that causes the stool to be black or tar-colored, iron deficiency indicators such as fatigue, weakness, and in the advanced stage, difficulty swallowing, nausea and vomiting, and enlargement around the abdomen, which means water fluid collection in the abdomen.”
“Nutrition is very important”
Reminding that the exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, Assoc. Prof. Yalav said, “A number of risk factors can contribute to the development of this disease. These factors are divided into two main categories: genetic and environmental factors. It is not possible to change genetic factors, but you can minimize the risk of this disease by making some lifestyle changes from environmental factors.”
“Quit smoking and alcohol completely”
Referring to the risks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalav stated that the stomach bacteria “Helicobacter pylori” will increase the risk by causing long-term infection in the gastric mucosa. Giving information about foods that will trigger the risk of stomach cancer, Yalav said, “Eating too much salty foods such as pickles and processed meats such as sausage and salami, as well as eating a diet insufficient in vegetables and fruits, smoking and alcohol use can increase the risk of stomach cancer. To reduce these risk factors, avoid salty and processed foods. Instead, eat a balanced and healthy diet, including fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains with plenty of fiber. Limit or completely stop smoking and alcohol. Especially if there is a family history of stomach cancer, have regular medical check-ups and screening tests for early diagnosis. Exercise regularly, get enough sleep and try to reduce stress.”
“The disease is at an advanced stage when symptoms begin”
Underlining that early diagnosis of stomach cancer is difficult, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalav said, “It is often difficult to diagnose because most patients do not consult a physician until they notice symptoms, and when complaints begin, the disease is actually at an advanced stage. One of the most important tests we need to make a diagnosis is endoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the inner surface of the stomach, making it possible to examine abnormal areas by biopsy. The samples taken here are examined pathologically by biopsy and provide definitive results in cancer diagnosis. In addition, methods such as computed tomography (CT), PET_CT and endoscopic ultrasound in early stage cases help to determine the spread and stage of cancer.”
“Closed surgery provides faster recovery”
Stating that the treatment varies depending on the stage of the disease, the general health status of the patient and other individual factors, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalav said that the main treatment of early stage stomach cancer is surgery, and that the patient is operated first. Stating that laparoscopic, ie closed method is preferred instead of classical open surgery in recent years, Assoc. Dr. Yalav said, “Laparoscopic method causes less pain with smaller incisions. It offers a faster healing process and accordingly a shorter hospital stay. It looks more aesthetic. It brings less tissue damage and complications. Patients return to their daily life faster. However, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. For this reason, be sure to discuss with your doctor which surgical technique is most appropriate.”
“Molecular targeted therapy has become widespread in recent years”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalav said about chemotherapy, a drug treatment to stop the growth of cancer cells and cancer cells circulating in the blood, “In the past, it was generally used after surgery or in advanced stage diseases, but today, chemotherapy treatment is given before surgery in all patients where cancerous tissue exceeds the 2nd layer of the stomach. Thus, longer life expectancy is achieved in our patients.”
Emphasizing the importance of taking these precautions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular health checks to prevent stomach cancer, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalav recommended that people with a family history of stomach cancer should have regular endoscopy screening from the age of 50, even if they do not have complaints.
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