Stomach/Gastric Cancer Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Stomach or gastric cancer is a serious disease that affects thousands of people globally each year. Early detection and specialized treatment are key to improving outcomes, and at Emirates Hospitals Group, we are committed to providing world-class care for patients diagnosed with stomach cancer. With the best oncologists in Dubai, our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to offering personalized and comprehensive cancer care, ensuring every patient receives the best treatment available.
About Stomach/Gastric Cancer
Stomach or gastric cancer develops when malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. This type of cancer can grow slowly over time and is often not diagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage. Stomach cancer may spread to other parts of the body, including the liver, pancreas, and lymph nodes, which complicates treatment.
Gastric cancer typically starts in the mucosa, the innermost layer of the stomach. The most common type of gastric cancer is adenocarcinoma, accounting for about 90% of cases. Other less common types include lymphoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and carcinoid tumors.
Causes & Symptoms
The exact cause of stomach cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include:
- Helicobacter pylori infection: A common bacterial infection that can cause chronic inflammation and lead to ulcers in the stomach lining.
- Diet: A diet high in salty, smoked, or processed foods, along with a low intake of fruits and vegetables, may raise the risk.
- Family history: Individuals with a family history of stomach cancer or certain genetic mutations may be at higher risk.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption: Both habits have been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.
- Obesity: Excess body weight is also associated with a higher risk of developing gastric cancer.
- Other medical conditions: Conditions such as chronic gastritis, gastric polyps, and pernicious anemia can contribute to the development of stomach cancer.
Symptoms of stomach cancer are often vague in the early stages, which makes it difficult to detect. Common symptoms include:
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly above the navel
- Feeling full after eating small amounts of food
- Fatigue or weakness
As the cancer progresses, the symptoms may become more severe.
Diagnosis
At Emirates Hospitals Group, we use advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to detect stomach cancer at the earliest possible stage. Our skilled oncologists and gastroenterologists will conduct a thorough assessment, including:
- Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the stomach through the mouth to visualize the stomach lining and take tissue samples (biopsy).
- Imaging tests: CT scans, PET scans, and MRI can be used to assess the extent of cancer and determine if it has spread to other parts of the body.
- Biopsy: A sample of stomach tissue is taken during an endoscopy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
- Blood tests: These tests can check for anemia (which might suggest internal bleeding) and assess liver and kidney function.
Early diagnosis is crucial for better treatment outcomes, and Emirates Hospitals Group offers the latest technology and highly skilled staff to ensure an accurate and timely diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment for stomach cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment options include:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the main treatment for stomach cancer. This can range from a partial gastrectomy (removing part of the stomach) to a total gastrectomy (removing the entire stomach), depending on the cancer’s size and location.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. It may also be used for advanced cancer to slow the spread and alleviate symptoms.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy, particularly in advanced stages.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted drugs can attack specific aspects of cancer cells, such as proteins that help the cells grow. This treatment can be less harmful to healthy cells and is used in certain types of stomach cancer.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment helps the body’s immune system fight cancer. It’s typically used for advanced cases that don’t respond to other treatments.
At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer the best cancer care led by the top oncologists in Dubai, ensuring that each patient receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Early symptoms can include indigestion, heartburn, and a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts. These symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions, making early detection challenging.
Stomach cancer is diagnosed using endoscopy, biopsies, imaging tests (such as CT or MRI), and blood tests.
Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, obesity, poor diet, family history, and certain medical conditions such as chronic gastritis or gastric polyps.
The prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early detection improves outcomes significantly, while late-stage stomach cancer may have a more challenging prognosis.
Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
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