Each year, more than 7 out of every 100,000 people are diagnosed with stomach cancer, and around 3 in 100,000 lose their lives to it. It is a type of cancer that often progresses silently and aggressively. As a result, the symptoms develop later than expected, which ultimately postpones the prompt diagnosis. Another concern is its tendency to return even after the cancer has been completely removed through treatment.
One of the most challenging aspects of stomach cancer is malnutrition. As the disease affects the stomach’s ability to digest and absorb food properly, patients often experience weight loss, weakness, and nutritional deficiencies. Stomach cancer can also affect men and women differently and is known to mimic common digestive problems, making it harder to detect early. Understanding its distinct nature is therefore essential.
In this article, we discuss the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer, its various stages, common causes, early warning signs, and ways to manage the condition. Read on to learn more about diagnostic tests, available treatment options, gastric surgeons in Mumbai, and the cost of stomach cancer treatment in Mumbai, India.
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What is Stomach Cancer?
Gastric cancer is another name for stomach cancer. It all begins with the unregulated growth and division of cells in the stomach lining. The cells eventually develop into a tumor, which may become cancerous later. Tumors may not become cancerous and can only remain in the stomach. On the other hand, it may develop the capability to spread and invade the cells of other organs like the lungs, liver, or the lining of the abdominal wall (belly).Read Also: What You Need to Know About Heart Tumors
What are the Symptoms of Stomach Cancer?
The following are the early signs of stomach cancer:- Loss of appetite
- Problem with swallowing
- Unexplained fatigue
- Excessive weakness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Unintended weight loss
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Black stool
- Blood in vomit
- Feeling bloated every time
- Stomach pain
- Feeling fullness even after a small meal or after snacking
What Leads to Delayed Stomach Cancer Detection?
Early-stage stomach cancer commonly exhibits no or very few noticeable symptoms. However, some people experience stomach upset, abdominal discomfort, and indigestion. But these symptoms are also associated with many less serious conditions, like a specific viral infection in the stomach. This increases the challenge with early detection of stomach cancer.The symptoms of advanced stomach cancer make it easy to suspect and diagnose the disease. The upper part of the gut is the first site of stomach cancer. You may lessen your chances of developing stomach cancer by choosing nutritious eating habits and a healthy lifestyle. But if this disorder runs in your family, then regular screening can help you identify it at early stages when the cancer is treatable.
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Stages of Stomach Cancer
The stomach cancer progresses in the following stages:| Stage of stomach cancer | What It Means |
| Stage 0 (Very Early) | Cancer is limited to the inner lining of the stomach and has not spread. |
| Stage I (Early Stage) | Cancer has grown deeper into the stomach wall and may involve nearby lymph nodes. |
| Stage II (Locally Advanced) | Cancer has spread further into the stomach wall and to more lymph nodes, but not to distant organs. |
| Stage III (Advanced Local Disease) | Cancer involves many lymph nodes or nearby organs such as the pancreas or spleen. |
| Stage IV (Metastatic) | Cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver, lungs, or the abdominal lining. |
What are the Diagnostic Tests for Stomach Cancer in Mumbai, India?
The following diagnostic tests help in detecting stomach cancer:- Upper endoscopy
- Endoscopic ultrasound
- Radiologic tests, including a CT scan, barium swallow, MRI, PET scan
- Blood tests
- Laparoscopy
What are the Stomach Cancer Treatment in Mumbai, India?
The following are the options available at the stomach cancer treatment hsopital in Mumbai, India:| Stage | Treatment Names | Description |
| Early-Stage Stomach Cancer | Upper endoscopy (EMR / ESD) | Removal of early cancer from the stomach lining |
| Localized Stomach Cancer | Subtotal gastrectomy | Removal of the cancer-affected part of the stomach |
| Total gastrectomy | Complete removal of the stomach | |
| Locally Advanced Stomach Cancer | Chemotherapy | Shrinks cancer before or after surgery |
| Radiation therapy | Uses radiation to destroy cancer cells | |
| Advanced/Recurrent Stomach Cancer | Targeted drug therapy | Drugs that attack specific cancer cell weaknesses |
| Immunotherapy | Helps the immune system destroy cancer cells | |
| All Stages (Supportive Care) | Palliative care | Relief from symptoms and improved quality of life |
What is the Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost in Mumbai, India?
The cost of stomach cancer treatment in Mumbai, India, ranges from ₹200,000 to ₹600,000. However, the cost varies depending upon numerous factors for stomach cancer treatment in Mumbai, including stage of cancer, type of treatment, location of hospital, type of hospital, type of room, and many more.| Treatment Name | Estimated Cost in India (Approx.) |
| Cancer Surgery (gastrectomy/tumor removal) | ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 |
| Chemotherapy (per cycle) | ₹50,000 – ₹200,000 |
| Chemotherapy (full course) | ₹200,000 – ₹600,000 |
| Radiation Therapy (complete course) | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Targeted Therapy (advanced cases) | ₹100,000 – ₹400,000 |
| Immunotherapy (advanced cases) | ₹150,000–₹400,000+ |
| Diagnostic Tests & Biopsy | ₹15,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Endoscopic treatment (early-stage) | ₹25,000 – ₹100,000 |
Conclusion
Although stomach cancer can't always be prevented, it can be treated if detected early. Your doctor may advise you to have surgery to remove tumors or cancer cells. They may also recommend a combination of medications to eliminate or significantly reduce the count of cancer cells. Several factors will determine your prognosis in the end.Asian Heart Institute is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support a wide range of advanced treatments for stomach cancer in Mumbai. Our top stomach cancer specialists of Mumbai, India, provide long-term follow-up care, compassionate support, and nutrition counseling at AHI.
Asian Heart Institute is the leading stomach cancer treatment hospital in Mumbai, India. Book your consultation today.
FAQs
Q1: How long may stomach cancer go undiagnosed?A: In its early stages, stomach cancer usually doesn't show any symptoms. In most cases, the earliest symptoms of stomach cancer, such as unexplained weight loss and abdominal discomfort, do not manifest until the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage. It may take years to happen.
Q2: Is minimally invasive stomach cancer surgery available in Mumbai?
A: Yes. In advanced hospitals such as Asian Heart Institute, minimally invasive surgeries can be performed to remove stomach cancer in early stages, particularly if the patient is in the high-risk category.
Q3: Is stomach cancer curable?
A: If caught early, stomach cancer can be treated successfully. However, a diagnosis is usually established after symptoms are noticeable. It is difficult to manage this cancer in its advanced stages, but treatment can help control the symptoms.
