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Also known as gastric cancer, stomach cancer starts at the linings of the stomach and spreads to other parts. It’s one of the cancers that can go unnoticed for years. However, if you know some of the signs of stomach cancer, you can see a doctor for an early diagnosis.
Risk factors
Although doctors can’t single out the cause behind stomach cancer, there are factors that increase the risk of having stomach cancer. One of the risk factors is infections caused by the H. pylori bacteria such as ulcers. Other risk factors include:
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1. Smoking
2. Obesity
3. Exposure to industrial chemicals
4. High salt and smoked diets
5. The family history of stomach cancer
Signs and symptoms
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Most people do not show any symptoms of stomach cancers until much later. Some people, however, experience symptoms that are mistaken for other stomach viruses hence delayed treatment. Some of the signs of stomach cancer to watch out for include:
1. Loss of appetite
2. Feeling full after eating only a small portion of food
3. Weight loss without trying
4. Nausea
5. Indigestion
6. Bloating
7. Fatigue
8. Blood stained stool (happens in advanced stages)
9. Heartburn
10. Frequent burping
11. Trapped wind
Diagnosis
If you have the above symptoms, you should see a doctor soonest possible to rule out the possibility of having stomach cancer. It will also help with treatment if diagnosed early.