Title: Stomach Cancer on the Rise in India: Experts Warn of High Incidence and Potential Causes
Stomach cancer, also known as Gastric cancer, has emerged as one of the most prevalent types of cancer in India, particularly affecting males and females. According to experts, stomach cancer ranks as the fifth most common cancer among males and the seventh among females in India and is also the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
Over the past ten years, the incidence of stomach cancer in India has shown a gradual increase, with rates higher than those observed in many Western countries. Unique dietary practices, such as a preference for spicy and preserved foods, as well as alcohol intake, are contributing factors, according to medical professionals.
Dr. Puneet Dhar, Head of Gastrointestinal Surgery at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, highlighted that stomach cancer predominantly affects individuals over 50, with a slightly higher prevalence among men. Lifestyle factors, including higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, contribute to the increased risk in men compared to women.
Geographically, regions with dietary patterns that include spicy, salty, or preserved foods show higher incidence rates of stomach cancer. Hormonal differences and genetic factors may also play a role. Symptoms of stomach cancer include persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the stool. Early-stage stomach cancer may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular screenings for high-risk individuals.
Different types of stomach cancer have been identified, including adenocarcinoma, lymphoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Unfortunately, stomach cancer is often diagnosed in later stages, leading to higher mortality rates.
Dr. Harish Verma, Senior Consultant in Surgical Oncology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, emphasized that gastric cancer is influenced by genetic, socio-cultural, and environmental factors. Etiological factors, such as smoking, alcohol, nitrates, and Helicobacter pylori infection, have been proposed as contributing factors.
The high incidence of local and distant recurrence in patients with completely resectable gastric cancer suggests the need for multimodality treatment, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. While there has been a decline in the incidence of gastric cancer in the developed world due to improved food hygiene and sanitation, this downward trend has not been observed in certain parts of India.
Medical professionals have recommended improving dietary habits, avoiding preserved foods, and making healthy lifestyle changes to reduce the incidence of stomach cancer. They have stressed the need for a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, minimizing processed and preserved foods, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol intake, and scheduling regular medical check-ups, particularly for those with a family history or concerning symptoms.
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