Some known genetic mutations can cause hereditary stomach cancer. If two or more close family members have stomach cancer, formal genetic counseling and testing should be considered.

Most stomach cancer patients have symptoms, which are usually persistent abdominal pain and weight loss. Weight loss may be due to anorexia, early satiety (feeling full after eating small amounts of food) and/or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).

Diagnosis is usually made by esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). When the diagnosis is made, additional tests are performed. Including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and a CT scan to establish the stage of the cancer. Prognosis and treatment depend on the stage.

Early-stage cancer has the best prognosis with a survival rate of around 90%. Very small cancer with low risk features can sometimes be treated with endoscopic resection where a gastroenterologist removes the tumor from inside the stomach.

A more advanced stage of cancer requires the addition of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to surgery. Advanced stage cancer where it has spread to distant organs, such as the liver, is unfortunately not curable.

However, many advances have been made in the development of systemic chemotherapy and immunotherapy therapy, and patients with cancer, even at advanced stages, are living longer.

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing stomach cancer. Minimize the consumption of foods high in salt and avoid deli meats. Stop smoking. Exercise and lose weight if you are overweight or obese.

Studies have shown that eating a fruit, especially citrus fruits rich in vitamin C, protects against the development of stomach cancer. Ask your doctor to test for Helicobacter pylori infection if you come from an area with a high incidence of stomach cancer or if you have a strong family history of stomach cancer.

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