Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, develops in the tissues lining the stomach. It is an aggressive disease that affects approximately 26,000 people in the United States each year. While stomach cancer rates have declined worldwide over the past few decades, it remains the third leading cause of cancer death globally.
Welling Homeopathy Cancer Treatment
The Welling Homeopathy Clinic offers a special form of treatment for patients battling with cancer. This specific form of homeopathy treatment aims to help cancer patients in several ways:
- Assist cancer patients in gaining control and better managing their condition.
- Help patients tolerate chemotherapy or radiation therapy better.
- Speed up recovery after cancer surgery.
- Prevent a recurrence of the cancer.
- Serve as a palliative measure in advanced cancer stages.
In addition to these, the clinic’s specialty cancer treatment can also help reverse cancer growth and reduce cancer pains. It’s worth noting that they collaborate closely with the patient’s physician and cancer specialist to offer a comprehensive holistic cancer treatment.
The ImmunoKnife™ Cancer Therapy
A key component of the Welling Homeopathy approach to treating cancer is the ImmunoKnife™ Cancer therapy. This therapy is a specially formulated homeopathic cancer therapy devised by Dr. Welling, a renowned Indian Homeopathic Doctor. Unlike traditional slow-acting homeopathy treatments, this is specifically formulated for cancers and lasts only 3 to 6 months.
The treatment is touted as effective for all types of cancers and has been advised to over 10,900 patients from 108 countries. With over 20 years of experience in aiding cancer patients live a long, pain-free life, the treatment has continuously proven to work and has earned multiple national and international awards.
The therapy stimulates the body’s cancer fighting capabilities within the immune system. It’s also designed to be safe, fast, and natural. It can be used alongside a combination of other treatments, which makes it a complementary therapy for cancer.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments may vary person to person. Consequently, visiting one of their clinics or consulting online for a detailed assessment with their specialists is recommended.
Welling Homeopathy treatment has served more than 1,250 cancer patients in the past 12 years, advising and helping patients from over 108 countries and all major Indian cities. They offer a wide range of treatments for various types of cancer including stomach, bladder, brain, breast, cervical, colon, kidney, liver, lung, melanoma, non-Hodgkin, esophageal, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, skin, thyroid, and uterine cancer.
Call +91 80 80 850 950 for a detailed pre-treatment assessment.
Stomach cancer can be a devastating diagnosis with a poor prognosis when detected at later stages. The 5-year survival rate for stomach cancer in the United States is approximately 31%. However, outcomes can be significantly improved with early detection and proper treatment. Raising awareness and understanding of stomach cancer is critical to empowering patients and improving survival rates.
What is Stomach Cancer?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. The stomach is a J-shaped organ located in the upper abdomen, just below the ribs. It’s part of the digestive system and lies between the esophagus and the small intestine.
The stomach has 5 main parts:
– Cardia – The first portion (near the esophagus)
– Fundus – The upper portion
– Body – The main central portion
– Antrum – The lower portion (near the intestine)
– Pylorus – The last portion that connects to the small intestine
Stomach cancer begins when healthy cells in the stomach lining transform into abnormal cells that grow out of control. Most stomach cancers start in the main body of the stomach, but can happen in any part. These abnormal cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and lymph vessels to other parts of the body.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer:
### H. Pylori Infection
One of the most significant risk factors for stomach cancer is a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacteria is present in around 50% of the world’s population. It is typically contracted in childhood and can lead to ulcers and inflammation of the stomach lining. This irritation over many years can cause cellular changes that may lead to cancer. Treating H. pylori with antibiotics can lower stomach cancer risk.
### Diet
Certain dietary factors are linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer. Eating lots of processed or salty foods like smoked meats, salted fish and vegetables, and pickled foods may irritate the stomach lining. A diet high in fiber and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables is recommended to help protect the stomach.
### Smoking
Smoking tobacco significantly raises the risk of stomach cancer. Chemicals from tobacco smoke can damage the stomach lining and lead to inflammation and mutations in stomach cells. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke can help lower your risk.
### Genetics
A small percentage of stomach cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations. People who have family members that have had stomach cancer are at a higher risk. There are some genetic syndromes like hereditary diffuse gastric cancer that substantially increase risk. Genetic testing and screening may be recommended for those with a strong family history.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer can cause a variety of symptoms as it grows. Some of the most common symptoms of stomach cancer include:
– **Indigestion**: One of the earliest signs of stomach cancer is persistent indigestion and heartburn. This is caused by excess stomach acid as a tumor grows in the inner lining of the stomach. The indigestion may feel like gas, bloating, or cramps in the upper abdomen.
– **Abdominal pain**: As the tumor gets bigger, it can partially block food from leaving the stomach. This causes abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen after eating small amounts of food. The pain may be worse at night.
– **Nausea and vomiting**: The buildup of food and stomach secretions can also cause nausea and vomiting if the stomach is unable to empty properly. This vomiting may contain blood, which appears dark and grainy.
– **Weight loss**: Stomach cancer can also cause decreased appetite and unintended weight loss. This is because the growing tumor makes the stomach feel full after eating only a small amount of food.
– **Anemia**: As the tumor bleeds into the stomach, it can cause loss of iron resulting in anemia. Symptoms of anemia include weakness, headaches, dizziness, pale skin, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
These symptoms often develop gradually over time. People who experience any of these symptoms for more than 2 weeks should see their doctor for evaluation and testing. Early diagnosis of stomach cancer leads to better outcomes.
Diagnosing Stomach Cancer
An accurate diagnosis of stomach cancer typically involves several different tests and procedures to examine the stomach lining and look for any abnormalities. Some of the main diagnostic methods include:
### Endoscopy
This procedure uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end called an endoscope. The doctor can insert this tube down the throat and into the stomach to visually inspect the lining for any growths or ulcers. Biopsy samples can also be taken during endoscopy for further testing. There are several types of endoscopies used:
– Upper endoscopy (EGD): Examines the esophagus, stomach, and beginning of the small intestine
– Narrow band imaging endoscopy: Uses specialized blue and green lights to better visualize small changes in the stomach lining
– Confocal laser endomicroscopy: Combination of endoscopy and microscopy to get highly detailed images of tissue at the cellular level
### Biopsy
A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from the stomach lining for examination under a microscope. This is the best way to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. Biopsies can be performed during endoscopic procedures or through fine needle aspiration (using a thin needle inserted into the mass to withdraw cells and fluid).
### Imaging Tests
Various imaging techniques can detect tumors and show how far cancer may have spread:
– CT scan: 3-dimensional x-ray images of the stomach and organs
– MRI scan: Uses radio waves and magnets to produce detailed images
– PET scan: Involves injecting a radioactive tracer into the blood to highlight cancer tissue
– Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the stomach and nearby organs
### Blood Tests
Certain blood tests may indicate the presence of stomach cancer based on specific biomarkers and cell counts:
– Complete blood count (CBC): Checks for anemia and blood cell abnormalities
– Tumor markers: Elevated levels of CEA or CA 19-9 can suggest cancer
By combining endoscopy, biopsy, imaging tests, and blood work, doctors can definitively diagnose stomach cancer and determine the extent of disease spread. This information is critical for staging and treatment planning.
## Stages
Stomach cancer is staged based on how far the cancer has spread. The stages range from stage 0 to stage 4.
### Stage 0
Stage 0 stomach cancer is also called carcinoma in situ. At this stage, cancer cells are only found on the surface lining of the stomach. The cancer has not grown into deeper layers of the stomach wall or spread to other parts of the body.
### Stage 1
In stage 1, the cancer has grown into the layer of connective tissue below the top layer of cells lining the stomach, called the lamina propria or submucosa. The cancer has not spread into the thick muscle layer (muscularis propria) or nearby lymph nodes.
### Stage 2
In stage 2 stomach cancer, the cancer has spread into the thick muscle layer (muscularis propria) of the stomach wall. It has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
### Stage 3
In stage 3, the cancer has grown through all the layers of the muscle into the connective tissue outside the stomach. It has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or organs.
### Stage 4
Stage 4 stomach cancer means the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, as well as to distant parts of the body such as the liver, lungs, bones, or peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). Stage 4 is divided into substages 4A, 4B, and 4C based on where the cancer has spread.
## Treatment of Stomach Cancer
The main treatments for stomach cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments. The exact approach depends on the stage of the cancer.
### Surgery
Surgery is typically the first treatment for stomach cancer, with the goal of removing all or part of the stomach, along with nearby lymph nodes. There are several different types of surgery:
– Subtotal gastrectomy (partial removal of the stomach)
– Total gastrectomy (full removal of the stomach)
– Lymph node removal (nearby lymph nodes are removed and examined for cancer spread)
Surgery offers the only chance for a cure, especially when the cancer has not spread beyond the stomach. After surgery, some patients may need chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
### Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be given before surgery to try shrinking the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy can also help control advanced stomach cancer that has spread.
Some common chemo drugs used for stomach cancer are 5-FU, capecitabine, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, docetaxel, and irinotecan. Chemotherapy is typically given in cycles, with treatment followed by a rest period to allow recovery.
### Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It may be used before surgery to try shrinking a tumor so it can be removed more easily. Radiation can also be used after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells.
For advanced stomach cancer, radiation therapy helps relieve symptoms like pain, bleeding, and difficulty swallowing. Radiation can be delivered externally using a machine that aims beams at the stomach tumor. Brachytherapy is internal radiation delivered via seeds, ribbons, or capsules placed inside the body near the tumor.
### Targeted Therapy
Targeted drugs and immunotherapy work differently than chemotherapy. They specifically target cancer cells to block their growth and spread. Some examples used for stomach cancer include trastuzumab and ramucirumab. Clinical trials are ongoing to find new targeted therapies.
## Latest Research
Immunotherapy is emerging as a promising new treatment option for stomach cancer. Drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo) work by helping the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Recent clinical trials have shown improved survival rates when immunotherapy is combined with chemotherapy for advanced stomach cancer.
Personalized medicine is also gaining traction in stomach cancer treatment. Doctors analyze the specific genetic changes in an individual’s tumor cells to identify targeted therapies that may work best for that patient. For example, the drug trastuzumab (Herceptin) may be an effective option for stomach cancers that overexpress the HER2 protein.
Patients interested in accessing the latest treatments may want to ask their doctors about clinical trials testing new stomach cancer therapies. Joining a clinical trial gives patients a chance to receive cutting-edge medicines before they are widely available. Some current trials are looking at novel immunotherapies, customized drug cocktails, dietary interventions, and more. Participating in research is an important way for patients to play an active role in advancing stomach cancer care.
## Living with Stomach Cancer
Receiving a stomach cancer diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming. While treatment is critical, it’s also important to focus on living well despite the challenges of this disease. Palliative care, nutrition, and support groups can help enhance quality of life.
### Palliative Care
Palliative care aims to relieve pain and provide comfort to those living with serious illness like stomach cancer. This type of care focuses on:
– Managing pain, nausea, fatigue and other concerning symptoms
– Coordinating care between different specialists
– Providing emotional and social support
– Assisting with complex medical decisions
– Improving quality of life for both patients and families
Palliative care can be provided at any stage of illness along with curative treatment. Discussing palliative care early on can help plan for physical, emotional, and quality of life needs.
### Nutrition
Eating well is vital during stomach cancer treatment and recovery. However, this disease and related treatments can make eating difficult due to appetite changes, nausea, digestive issues, or dietary restrictions. A nutritionist can provide personalized recommendations based on one’s condition, abilities, and food preferences.
General tips include:
– Eating small, frequent meals
– Choosing nutritious, high calorie foods
– Staying hydrated
– Managing side effects like taste changes or diarrhea
– Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, acidic or spicy foods if they cause discomfort
– Supplementing with shakes or nutrition drinks if needed
Good nutrition helps maintain strength, energy levels, and a healthy weight. Don’t hesitate to ask doctors for referrals to registered dietitians or nutrition-related resources.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a disease in which malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. As outlined in this article, the major causes include H. pylori infection, smoking, diet, obesity, and genetic factors. Common symptoms include indigestion, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and unexplained weight loss.
Diagnosis often involves endoscopy and biopsy to examine the stomach tissue. CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans may also be used to determine if cancer has spread. Treatment options depend on the stage and include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these.
New research is investigating advanced endoscopic treatments as well as improved drug therapies to target cancer cells. While stomach cancer remains difficult to treat in later stages, increased awareness and early screening provide hope.
If you experience any persistent stomach issues, do not ignore them. See your doctor right away for proper evaluation. Pay attention to your body and advocate for your health. Together, we can work to lower risks, detect cancer sooner, and support those affected. Stay informed, get screened regularly, and help spread awareness about this disease. With vigilance and care, we can make progress in the fight against stomach cancer.