Gastric cancer

Abstract

Gastric cancer (GC), although reducing in incidence in recent years, continues to be a common cancer worldwide, especially in developed countries where diets contain more red meat, fats and alcohol. Genetic factors and environmental factors such as Helicobacter pylori and other microbial associations play a role in the development of GC. GCs are more common in men and incidence increases with age. GC is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, GC is frequently diagnosed after curative treatment is no longer possible, because the most worrying symptoms develop at later stages of the disease. As a result, prognosis is poor. Common presenting features include upper abdominal discomfort, dyspepsia, acid reflux, unexplained anaemia and weight loss. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is the gold standard investigation for diagnosis of GC. The mainstay of curative treatment is surgery. Other treatment options include endoscopic mucosal resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.