Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer may cause few symptoms early. Persistent indigestion with alarm symptoms, unexplained weight loss or swallowing difficulty requires assessment.
Common signs and symptoms
Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you have cancer. New, unexplained or persistent changes should be assessed.
- persistent upper abdominal discomfort or indigestion
- feeling full after small meals
- unexplained weight or appetite loss
- nausea or vomiting
- vomiting blood or black stools
- difficulty swallowing for cancers near the upper stomach
Risk factors
A risk factor changes probability; it does not predict who will or will not develop cancer.
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- smoking
- increasing age
- family history or inherited syndromes
- chronic stomach inflammation
- dietary and environmental factors
Screening and early detection
There is no routine screening programme for average risk people in South Africa. High risk families require specialist advice.
How it is investigated and diagnosed
Tests usually include upper endoscopy with biopsy, blood tests and CT, endoscopic ultrasound or laparoscopy for staging.
A biopsy or specialist test is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and exact cancer type. Your healthcare team will explain which tests are appropriate.
Common treatment approaches
Treatment is individual and depends on the cancer subtype, stage, test results, general health and the patient’s priorities.
- surgery
- chemotherapy before or after surgery
- targeted or immune treatment for selected tumours
- radiotherapy in selected settings
- nutritional and symptom support
Only a qualified treating team can recommend a treatment plan.
Questions to ask your healthcare professional
- What exact cancer type and subtype has been found?
- What stage is it, and which tests established the stage?
- What are my treatment options, expected benefits and possible side effects?
- Should biomarker, genetic or inherited risk testing be considered?
- Who should I contact if my symptoms change or I need urgent help?
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black stools, fainting, persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain.
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department. CFC is not an emergency medical service.
Reliable medical sources
This guide was medically reviewed against current public information from the following authoritative organisations:
This page provides general information only. It cannot diagnose cancer, recommend treatment or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your circumstances.