Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, usually starts in the lining of the stomach and grows slowly over several years. It has become increasingly uncommon the U.S., thanks largely to food safety, though it is still a serious condition with symptoms that don’t often appear until the cancer has advanced.

The Riverside Cancer Institute is committed to bringing the latest early detection and treatment options to our communities in the heartland of Illinois and Western Indiana. Our multi-skilled team – including gastroenterologists, medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons and more – will work closely together with you to create a personal plan to wellness.

To request an appointment with specialist close to home, call (815) 933-9660. You can also find an oncologist anytime online.

About Stomach Cancer

Before stomach cancer develops, pre-cancerous changes often occur in the inner lining of the stomach. These early changes rarely cause symptoms and therefore often go undetected.

Early on, symptoms may cause indigestion, heart burn, slight nausea and/or loss of appetite. As stomach tumors grown, you may have more serious symptoms, including:

• Stomach pain or swelling
• Blood in your stool
• Vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss for no reason
• Trouble swallowing
• Yellowish eyes or skin (jaundice)
• Fatigue
• Severe, persistent heartburn

Stomach cancer most often occurs in older people: about 6 of every 10 new diagnosed each year are 65 or older.

The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, though certain factors may increase your risk. One of them is infection with a common bacteria, H. pylori, which can cause ulcers that lead to the condition. Lifestyle factors, including poor dieting and smoking, can also contribute.

Prevention

There’s no way certain way to prevent stomach cancer, but there are things you can do to help lower your risk. In addition to treating stomach infections and eating healthy, it’s important to stop smoking. Studies have shown that your risk for stomach cancer doubles if you use tobacco. Riverside is committed to helping you kick the habit for good and enjoy a longer, healthier life. Take the first step with our Freedom from Smoking program. You’ll find proven, evidence-based tools and all the support you need to succeed.

Also, while only a small percentage of stomach percentages are known to be hereditary, it’s important to recognize your risk because most people who inherit the condition eventually get stomach cancer. If you have a family history, our Cancer Screening and Risk Assessment program can provide the answers you need. One of our genetic counselors will help you determine your risk and, if needed, coordinate testing and any other follow-up steps.

Detection & Diagnosis

Doctors typically don't do routine screening for stomach cancer, mainly because it's not that common. If you’re at a higher risk, though, or experiencing symptoms, it’s important to check in with your doctor as soon as possible.

Riverside offers a variety of tests to look for signs of stomach, including upper endoscopy. During this simple procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera is passed down your throat and into your stomach to look for anything suspicious.

Personalized Treatment

If you’re diagnosed with stomach cancer, rest assured you have some of the region’s best experts by your side. Together, our multi-skilled team will work closely with you to create a personal cancer treatment plan, which may include the latest surgical and radiation therapies, as well as newer medical therapy options like immunotherapy, which uses your body’s natural defense system to destroy cancer cells.

Support for Every Step

We’re committed to caring for the whole you and providing the resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services — from education to rehabilitation, nutritional to spiritual counseling, support groups and more empowering programs.