Colon cancer is also known as colorectal cancer, which combines colon cancer with rectal cancer, which starts in the rectum. Colorectal cancer was seldom diagnosed a few decades ago. But now, with about 900,000 deaths per year globally, it is the third most fatal cancer. 

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an eminent oncologist in Bangalore, says that according to research, colon cancer can affect 1 in every 23 men and 25 women at some time in their life.

In this article, we shall learn about the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment of colon cancer. 

Colon cancer originates in the large intestine. The colon is the last area of the digestive system. Colon cancer usually occurs in older people, although it can affect anyone at any age. It usually starts as polyps that are tiny, non-cancerous (benign) clusters of cells that grow inside the colon. Some of the polyps may turn into colon cancer over time.

Small polyps may cause minor symptoms if any. As a result, Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the best cancer specialists in Bangalore,advises routine screening tests to detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous.

If colon cancer is diagnosed, various treatments, including radiation therapy, surgery, and medication treatments like targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, are available to help manage it.

The following are few of the symptoms and signs of colon cancer:

• Changes in your bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea
• A difference in the quality of your stool, thin or loose stool
• Blood in your feces
• Rectal bleeding
• Feeling as if your bowels are not empty even after a bowel movement
• Weakness or tiredness
• Weight loss despite eating well
• Consistent abdominal pain and discomfort, including cramps, gas, or bloating

If you or your loved one experiences any of the above symptoms, please get in touch with Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a top-notch surgical oncologist in India.

Many patients do not experience any signs or symptoms in the initial stages of cancer. Symptoms canvary depending on the location and size of cancer in the large intestine.

There are several methods for determining a cancer stage. The phases show how far cancer has gone and how large any tumors are.

The stages of colon cancer are as follows:

• Stage 0: Carcinoma in situ is a very early stage, where the colon cancer has not progressed beyond the internal lining of the colon and is usually easily treatable.
• Stage 1: Cancer has progressed to the next tissue layer.
• Stage 2: The cancer has spread to the exterior layers of the colon but not beyond it.
• Stage 3: The cancer has penetrated the outer layers of the colon and spread to 1 – 3 lymph nodes.
• Stage 4: Cancer has spread outside the colon’s wall and reached adjacent tissues. Colon cancer spreads to other areas of the body as stage 4 advances.

Doctors are not sure of the exact causes of colon cancer. Generally, it develops when the DNA of healthy colon cells mutates. The DNA of a cell carries instructions that tell it needs to do. Healthy cells multiply and expand in a standard pattern to keep your body functioning smoothly.

If a cell’s DNA is compromised and becomes malignant, the cells continue to multiply even though new cells are not required. As the cells grow, a tumor develops.

Over time, the cancerous cells can grow big enough to invade and kill normal tissues nearby. Furthermore, malignant cells can move to other places of the body and create deposits there (metastasis).

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a highly-skilled surgical oncologist in India, says that unfavorable influences such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and smoking, in addition to aging and dietary choices of high-income countries, raise the risk of colon cancer.

Although the exact causes of colon cancer are not known, potential risk factors include:

• Age:Colon cancer can strike anyone at any age; however, most of those diagnosed are over 50. Colon cancer rates in persons under 50 have been rising, but physicians are not sure why.
• History of polyps or colon cancer:You have a higher risk of colon cancer if you already have non-cancerous colon polyps or colon cancer.
• Family history:If someone in your family has had colon cancer, you are more likely to get it. If more than 1 blood relative has had colon or rectal cancer, then your chances are even higher.
• Sedentary lifestyle:Inactive people are more likely to acquire colon cancer. You can reduce the risk of colon cancer by engaging in regular physical activity.
• Obesity:Compared to those of average weight, obese people have a higher risk of developing colon cancer and dying from colon cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking increases your risk of having colon cancer.
• Alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcohol increases the risk of colon cancer.
• Dietary choices:A standard Western diet that is usually low in fiber and heavy in fat and calories may be linked to colon and rectal cancer. The results of studies in this area have been varied. Some studies have revealed that people who eat a diet high in processed meat and red meat have a higher risk of colon cancer.

• Genetics:Some gene changes passed down through generations can significantly raise the risk of colon cancer. Inherited genes are associated with just a small fraction of colon cancers. Lynch syndrome and FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis), often termed hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), are the two most frequent genetic syndromes that raise colon cancer risk.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, among the leading oncologists in Bangalore,may suggest testing to evaluate your colon cancer’s extent (stage). Staging aids in determining the most effective therapy for you. Imaging methods like CT scans of the abdomen, pelvis, and chest may be used in the staging process.

 Other tests that may be suggested are blood tests, colonoscopy, fecal testing, biopsy, X-ray, etc. Treatment is to eradicate cancer, stop it from spreading, and alleviate any unpleasant symptoms. Chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation are all used to treat colon cancer.

Surgery during the early stage of colon cancer

Polypectomy:

If the cancer is in the early stage, small, and contained inside a polyp, it can be extracted during the colonoscopy.

Endoscopic mucosal resection:

During a colonoscopy, the surgeon will remove larger polyps with special equipment that removes both the polyp and a tiny section of the colon’s inner lining.

Laparoscopic surgery:

Laparoscopic surgery is used for polyps that cannot be removed during a colonoscopy.

Surgery used for advanced colon cancer

Proctosigmoidectomy:

This is a minimally invasive surgery in which only the afflicted area of the sigmoid colon and the rectum is removed.

Right colectomy: 

This involves removing the right side of the colon and the last section of the small intestine linked to the colon.

Total abdominal colectomy:

During this treatment, the oncologist removes the complete large intestine from the lower area of the small intestine to the rectum. The small intestine will then be stitched to the rectum. It can be performed via laparoscopy or open surgery.

Total proctocolectomy:

In this surgery, the rectum, colon, and anus are removed.

Abdominoperineal resection:

During this surgical procedure, the anus, sigmoid colon, and rectum are removed. The patient is then fitted with a permanent colostomy (an artificial pouch) to pass their waste.

Radiation:

Radiation uses an intense energy beam like the one used in X-rays to target and eliminate cancerous cells. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are routinely used together.

Chemotherapy:

The oncologist will administer medications to eliminate cancer cells during chemotherapy. Following surgery, people with colon cancer are usually given a procedure to remove any leftover cancerous cells. Chemotherapy can help to slow down the progress of cancer.

Do not hesitate to speak with Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of the preferred cancer specialists in Bangalore, for diagnosis and the best treatment suitable for you.

Colon cancer can severely affect the quality of your life. There is no way to guarantee that colon cancer will not develop. Some preventative actions, however, can help you and your loved ones. 

Remember some easy and effective habits are to maintain a healthy weight, follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, exercise regularly, reduce consumption of red meat and saturated fats, cut down on alcohol intake and quit smoking.

As the symptoms are not likely to appear until cancer has progressed, it is essential that you visit an experienced oncologist for regular check-ups. Do not delay any longer; schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandeep Nayak at the earliest. He is a highly respected and trusted surgical oncologist in India.

The idea that wireless devices cause cancer is a popular one, with many people believing that the risk of cancer is being increased because of the number of devices that we have in our lives. However, scientists have found no evidence to support this. The World Health Organization released a statement saying that there is no conclusive evidence to link cancer and EMFs from wireless devices.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is one of the leading oncologist in Bangalore. You can consult with him if you are facing some health discomfort through your wireless devices. He can guide you with all the treatments regarding this.

There are many possible sources of electromagnetic fields, including talking on a mobile phone while driving, using a cordless phone in the home or office, and sleeping near a baby monitor. A large number of studies have been done to try and measure the different types of EMFs, but so far there is no definite connection between them and cancer.

The risks of EMF are still being debated. On one side, some people think that the risk is too high for people to be exposed to EMFs without warning labels or any restrictions on use. Other people believe that EMF can’t cause cancer because the energy is too weak and there’s not enough evidence of it causing cancer.

The precise and accurate impacts of EMF exposure on human health have yet to be discovered. In the coming years, research may provide us with more information.

Some studies link EMF exposure to a variety of ailments, although researchers agree that additional research is needed. Many of the studies rely on animal or cell models, which are unreliable when used in human health research.

Some of these symptoms have also been linked to electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), a condition in which people attribute a variety of non-specific symptoms to EMF exposure.

Although people do experience symptoms that are sometimes uncomfortable and even disabling, the medical field has not confirmed EHS.

There is currently no reputable evidence linking EHS symptoms to EMF exposure, and EHS is not considered a medical diagnosis. More research, according to the medical community, is required.

Nonetheless, some evidence suggests that EMF symptomatology may be true. Some researchers have suggested the following symptoms:

• You can experience sleep disturbance or you can also have insomnia. 
• Mild or excessive headaches 
• You can grow depressive symptoms or can get depression.
• Fatigue or tiredness. 
• Dysesthesia is often an itchy sensation or sometimes painful. 
• You can get a lack of concentration. 
• Loss of appetite or weight loss.
• Dizziness.

If you are getting any of this symptoms you can consult with Dr. Sandeep Nayak who is one of the renowned and best cancer specialists in Bangalore. With his years of expertise in oncology he can give you the best guidance with the treatment. 

Although a lot of studies have been conducted, there is still no conclusive evidence that says that wireless devices cause cancer. However, the majority of the studies were done with animals and not humans. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has warned about the dangers of these devices in regards to long-term exposure.

It is still too early to know for sure. There is no strong evidence that wireless devices cause cancer, but it’s important to take precautions until we have a better understanding of the potential effects of radiofrequency energy. The most important thing you can do to limit your exposure and protect yourself and your family is to reduce the time spent using a device before going on to the next one. It’s also a good idea not to carry your phone in your pocket or near your body if it’s sending or receiving data from the network.

There is no conclusive evidence that wireless devices cause cancer and some studies have yielded opposite results. Hopefully, in the future, we will have more information on whether or not WiFi emits harmful levels of EMF radiation.

Everyone knows that maintaining a healthy weight is essential for their heart and overall health. But did you know that a healthy weight can also lower your risk of certain cancers? You can increase your chances of beating colorectal cancer by reducing your risk of getting it.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an eminent surgical oncologist in India, says that reducing your risk of developing colorectal cancer begins with better gut health. Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do to prevent colorectal cancer.

Read on and learn tips to reduce the risk of getting colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer occurs when the healthy cells in your colon or rectal lining change and start to grow out of control, resulting in a tumor. Tumors can be malignant (cancerous) and spread to other areas of your body or benign (non–cancerous), which means they can grow but not spread. It usually takes years for these changes to manifest.

CRC is the 3rd highest cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women globally and affects more than 5.20 million people worldwide (5-year prevalence), which is only lower than breast cancer, affecting over 7.70 million people.

Although there are several healthy lifestyle choices you can make, certain behaviors are known to be more effective than others in reducing your risk of colorectal cancer.

Obese people are about 30% more likely than normal-weight people to get colorectal cancer. A higher BMI is linked to an increased risk of colon and rectal cancer in both genders, but the chances are greater in men.

Inactivity can increase your risk of colorectal cancer by as much as 28 %. That is because inactivity is associated with a higher risk of obesity, increasing your risk of colorectal cancer. If you want to lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer, it is crucial that you make exercise a part of your routine.

Red meat is one of the highest-risk foods for colorectal cancer. A study in the Journal of Nutrition shows that men who ate red meat more than twice a week had a 62 % higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than those who ate red meat less than once a week. 

This supports other studies showing that eating red meat may increase your risk for colorectal cancer by 50 %. 

If you are worried about your health and want to lower your risk for colorectal cancer, limit your intake of red meat. 

Processed foods are not always healthy. Processed foods contain many unhealthy ingredients that cause inflammation, which can lead to colorectal cancer. The most common processed foods are sugar-sweetened sodas and desserts, salty snacks, fast food, and refined grains.

You could also try cutting out processed meats from your diet and replacing them with plant-based proteins like tofu, beans, or nuts.

Processed meats are the ones that are smoked, cured, salted, or chemically preserved, such as bacon, hot dogs, bologna, ham, and packed lunchmeat.

There is no better way to lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer than by increasing your fruit and vegetable intake. Studies show that people who eat more fruits and vegetables have lower rates of colon cancer.

Eating fruits and vegetables rich in fiber can lower your risk for colorectal cancer by up to 40%. Fiber helps ensure that waste stays in your gut and keeps things moving along nicely while also helping reduce inflammation in the intestines. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables can help improve digestion and prevent constipation or diarrhea.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, among the leading cancer specialists in Bangalore, adds that colorful fruits and veggies contain phytochemicals, natural substances that may aid in blocking the growth of cancer cells.

The American Cancer Society recommends making time for relaxation and not just exercising. Taking the time to relax can help you lower stress and lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer. 

Meditation is a great way to relax. You can also try yoga or deep breathing for a few minutes throughout the day.

Consider quitting if you smoke more than a pack a day or have other health risks like heart disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol. 

Just 1 cigarette a day increases your risk of colorectal cancer by 5 %. 

If you quit smoking, it can reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer by at least 50 %.

Regular, heavy alcohol consumption can harm your liver, causing inflammation and scarring, and may contribute to the increased risk of liver cancer. 

A drink once in a while does not appear to increase your risk of colon cancer. However, if you are a moderate to heavy drinker (2 – 3 glasses per day), you can increase the odds of getting it by 20%, and excessive drinking can increase your risk by 40%. 

If you drink more than 3 drinks per day regularly, speak with Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an acclaimed surgical oncologist in India, about getting screened for colorectal cancer.

The majority of research concur that dairy products, which are rich in calcium, reduce the risk of adenomas (colon growths) and colorectal cancer. Calcium supplements could also be beneficial. Consult your doctor to see what options are available to you.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Research suggests that it can also lower your risk of colorectal cancer. For optimal Vitamin D levels, make sure you are getting exposure to natural sunlight on your skin and take a supplement when necessary.

Your health comes first. If you have colorectal cancer, the earlier it is detected, the better your chances of survival are. Early detection also increases your chances of a cure and lowers the risk of spreading cancer to other parts of your body. 

If you are struggling with weight or do not feel like you are giving your body enough love, now is the time to make a change! Do not let colorectal cancer become one of your life’s regrets. The earlier that colorectal cancer is diagnosed, the easier it will be to beat.

Stop postponing that critical visit to a health professional. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a top-notch cancer specialist in Bangalore, to assess your condition and start the best suitable treatment.

Rectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer deaths, develops in the rectum that connects the colon and the anus. Low rectal cancers are challenging to treat due to limited access and visibility.

“Nowadays, things are changing with innovative surgical techniques like Intersphincteric resection (ISR) surgery. This procedure is used to treat rectal cancer located very low in the rectum, near the anus,” says Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a surgical oncologist in India, who is the Chairman – Oncology Services, Karnataka, India and Executive Director – Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, KIMS Hospital, Bangalore

“ISR rectal cancer surgery is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option, as it allows the surgeon to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving the function of the anus and the sphincter muscles that control bowel movements,” he further explains.

Low rectal cancer is located within 6 cm of the anal verge. Treating this type of cancer is difficult due to its position and requires careful assessment and discussion.

Now, surgeons replace APR with ISR surgery, a procedure that keeps the sphincter intact and lowers the likelihood of permanent colostomy. ISR coupled with neoadjuvant therapy is becoming more and more accepted for low rectal cancer.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak is an expert in laparoscopic and robotic surgery. He has performed for than 300 low anterior resection rectal cancer surgery using ISR. He is also the Founder of MACS Clinic, an exclusive centre for advanced cancer surgery.

How is ISR beneficial for very low rectal cancer?

There are several benefits to ISR surgery for very low rectal cancer

• Preservation of anal function: ISR surgery is designed to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving the function of the anus and the sphincter muscles. This can help to reduce the risk of incontinence and other complications that can occur after surgery.
• Allows shorter hospital stay: Depending on the specifics of the case, ISR may be associated with a shorter hospital stay compared to other surgical approaches.
• Better cosmetic results: As ISR rectal cancer surgery is a less invasive surgical option, it can result in better cosmetic results and a faster recovery.
• Improved quality of life: By preserving the function of the anus and the sphincter muscles, ISR surgery can help to improve the patient’s quality of life. 

Overall, ISR surgery is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment option fro very low rectal cancer.

It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of ISR surgery with an expert surgical oncologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.

“ISR surgery is not a suitable treatment option for all people with very low rectal cancer,’ explains Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a highly experienced surgical oncologist in India. “The decision to proceed with ISR will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and stage of cancer, the overall health of the patient, and the surgeon’s preference. A thorough evaluation by a colorectal surgeon is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.”

Treatment for rectal cancer typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and chemotherapy and radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. The type of surgery and other recommended treatments will depend on the stage and location of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.

ISR surgery helps preserve the anus in around 90 percent of patients with low rectal cancer, thereby avoiding a permanent stoma.

There are different types of ISR surgery, such as:

Total ISR – 

This procedure is performed if the tumor has advanced past the dentate line. During this procedure, the internal sphincter is completely removed, leaving the intersphincteric groove as the resection’s distal limit.

Subtotal ISR –

A subtotal ISR is conducted in cases where the tumor’s distal edge is more than 2 cm distant from the dentate line, thereby obtaining the distal resection margin between the dentate line and the intersphincteric groove.

Partial ISR –

 Distal or partial resection is ideally conducted at or above the dentate line if sufficient distal surgical margin is present.

Outlook

Compared to abdominoperineal resection, intersphincteric resection (ISR) is an ideal anus-sparing treatment option for low rectal cancer. 

Robotic ISR allows excellent vision, efficient traction for careful pelvic dissections, and optimal hemostasis during levator-sphincter dissection. 

Compared to the open surgical approach, the robotic approach efficiently allows for anus-preserving resection in patients with low rectal tumors.

However, to perform this intricate surgery, you need an expert surgical oncologist who has an in-depth understanding of the deep pelvic anatomy and careful patient selection.

If you seek detailed information about ISR low anterior rectal resection, consult a surgical oncologist in India with vast experience in performing this surgery. 

When is low anterior resection done?

Low anterior resection (LAR) is a surgical procedure to remove a portion of the rectum. It is typically done to treat cancer or other conditions that affect the lower part of the colon and rectum.

What is R1 resection in rectal cancer?

R1 resection involves removing the rectum’s cancerous portion and a small margin of healthy tissue around it. The goal of the surgery is to remove as much cancer as possible while minimizing the risk of recurrence.

Is surgery always necessary for rectal cancer?

Surgery is often a necessary part of treatment for rectal cancer. The specific type of surgery recommended will depend on the stage and location of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.

What is low rectal carcinoma?

Rectal carcinoma is a type of cancer that affects the rectum, which is the final portion of the large intestine that connects the colon to the anus. Low rectal carcinoma refers to cancer located in the lower part of the rectum, closer to the anus.

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Testicular cancer affects the testes. While it only accounts for 1% of all malignancies, it is the most common among men aged 20 to 34. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, Consultant Surgical oncologist, MACS Clinic, Jayanagar, Bangalore & the Chairman – Oncology Services, Karnataka, India and Executive Director – Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, KIMS Hospital, Bangalore, he says, “The risk is great, but the chance of survival is much higher. Over 90% of testicular cancer patients can be treated successfully.”

He further states, “Self-examination is very crucial in detecting testicular cancer early on. The most appropriate time is after your bath when you are relaxed. Gently feel the testes and adjacent structures with your finger and thumb, checking for any lumps.”

The most common symptom is a lump that develops on one of the testicles. Although the lump is generally painless, some persons experience pain or discomfort from the afflicted testis.

The majority of scrotal swellings and bumps are not cancerous. There are a number of different reasons for this. Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced cancer specialist in Bangalore, explains, “If you see swelling or lump in one of your testicles, you should always consult a doctor. You should get it checked out right away.”

He has treated countless patients in his career and has pioneered several innovative surgical techniques that give the patients a better chance of survival and leading a quality life.

Now let us understand the symptoms you need to look out for to detect cancer early on:

• Testicular enlargement
• Testicular discomfort or pain
• An ache in the back or lower abdominal 
• Breast tissue enlargement

If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor.

Who are at risk of testicular cancer?

The following factors can raise your chances of developing testicular cancer:

• Having a history of the disease in one’s family
• Abnormal testicular development 
• Having cryptorchidism (undescended testicle).

How is testicular cancer diagnosed?

Your doctor may use the following tests to diagnose testicular cancer:

• A physical examination that can identify any abnormalities in the testicles, such as tumors or swelling
• Tumor marker blood tests can reveal high levels of chemicals linked to testicular cancer, such as alpha-fetoprotein or beta-human chorionic gonadotropin.
• An ultrasound to evaluate the testicles’ internal structure

If your doctor detects cancer, your testicle may need to be removed entirely in order to collect a tissue sample. They cannot do it while your testicle is still in the scrotum because it risks spreading cancer through the scrotum.

They will perform abdominal, and pelvic CT scans following the diagnosis to detect if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. It’s called staging.

Testicular cancer treatment

There are basically three categories of treatment for testicular cancer. Your doctor may treat you with one or more alternatives depending on the stage of your cancer. 

Surgery

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a leading surgical oncologist in India, says, “Surgery is the first line of treatment for testicular cancer.” Orchiectomy, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, or testis-sparing surgery (TSS) are surgical alternatives for treating it. These procedures can be done laparoscopically or robotically.

Radiation

High-energy rays are used in radiation therapy to eliminate cancer cells. The doctor can either give it internally or externally.

Dr Nisha Vishnu, Consultant Radiation oncologist, MACS Clinic, Jayanagar, Bangalore & Fortis Cancer Institute, Bangalore says, “External radiation is delivered by directing the radiation beam toward the tumor tissues from the outside. This method is frequently effective in the treatment of seminomas.”

Chemotherapy 

Dr Suresh Babu, Consultant Medical oncologist, MACS Clinic, Jayanagar, Bangalore & Fortis Cancer Institute, Bangalore says, “Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It’s a systemic treatment that can eliminate cancer cells spread throughout your body. Chemotherapy is very useful in testicular cancer and can cure many of them.” 

A stem cell transplant may follow high-dose chemotherapy in severely advanced cases of testicular cancer.

Outlook

Testicular cancer treatment is often successful. You can expect to be cured if your testicular cancer is detected and treated early. Fortunately, the majority of testicular malignancies are caught early on.

There is still a good chance of a cure even if cancer has spread to other places of the body. It is because testicular cancer cells generally respond effectively to chemotherapy.

Even though we all suffer stomach aches now and then, pain isn’t usually an early sign of stomach cancer. So, instead, what should you be on the alert for? Here’s what you need to know about stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is medically known as gastric cancer. Cancer can create a tumor or ulcer within the stomach or spread widely throughout the entire wall. 

Stomach cancer is most common in adults between the ages of 50 and 70. Men are more likely to have it. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are all options for treating gastrointestinal malignancies.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a renowned surgical oncologist in India, provides advanced and effective stomach cancer treatment says  “The type and stage of cancer and the patient’s age, overall health, and preferences influence gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treatment options.”

Stomach cancer can be successfully treated in its early stages. Hence, the early warning signs of stomach cancer should not be overlooked.

Early indications of stomach cancer are often so common that they go unnoticed.

Stomach cancer is one of those problematic diagnoses where most people may have experienced symptoms in the past. Even so, they are typically subtle symptoms that can be mistaken for a variety of other benign gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.

• Bloating.
• Heartburn.
• Nausea.
• Feeling of discomfort after eating food

Because these symptoms are commonly ignored as normal GI concerns — which are for most individuals — stomach cancer is generally discovered in advanced stages when it is ultimately identified.

According to Dr. Sandeep Nayak, an experienced cancer specialist in Bangalore, India, potential warning signs of stomach cancer include:

1. You lose weight abruptly, and your appetite decreases.

People stop feeling hungry and, as a result, begin to lose weight without even trying. That is most likely the most alarming symptom.

2. You are worn out.

This could result from a slow blood loss, indicating malignancy, combined with a sudden weight loss. Anemia, or a low red blood cell count, can result from blood loss, which is most likely the cause of your fatigue.

3. Your feces or vomit contains blood. 

This is a rare occurrence, but it can occur if you lose a lot of blood.

4. Even if you have only eaten a small bit, you feel full.

5. You have noticed a shift in your bowel movements. 

Perhaps you have been suffering persistent bouts of diarrhea or constipation.

6. Symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort that do not go away.

For example, you have had nausea or abdominal discomfort for more than a couple of days.

7. You are having GI symptoms you have never had before.

For example, reflux – a condition in which the contents of your stomach go up into your oesophagus. These are all indicators that you should see your primary care physician to evaluate if you require additional testing.

The majority of the time, these symptoms are caused by something else, but it’s best to get them checked out so you can seek treatment as soon as possible if you do.

Now, let’s know,

Apart from H. pylori, several other factors can raise your risk of stomach cancer, including:

• Smoking.
• Being a man.
• Age is a factor (your risk increases as you get older).
• Obesity.
• Past surgery for stomach ulcers.
• Certain genetic conditions.
• A diet containing smoked foods, salted seafood, and red meats.
• Family history.

We consume a lot of processed and unhealthy food, which contributes to our mild symptoms. We need to return to a more natural, plant-based diet. 

There’s no denying that the evidence supports a diet high in fresh vegetables, low in fruit, and low in meat, mainly processed meat. 

Avoiding these toxic foods lowers a person’s risk of developing cancer and the stomach symptoms that come with consuming them.

Don’t be alarmed if your gastrointestinal system appears to be acting strangely.

Most of the time, GI symptoms are caused by benign reasons rather than stomach cancer. Our digestive processes can be highly temperamental at times.