Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer causes

Stomach cancer begins when cells in the stomach grow out of control. This may be caused by:

• Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Eating lots of salty, pickled, or processed foods
• Long-term stomach inflammation
• Family history of stomach cancer

Stomach cancer risk factors

You may be more at risk for stomach cancer if you:

• Are age 50 or older
• Are male
• Have H. pylori infection
• Smoke
• Eat a diet high in processed or salty foods
• Have a history of stomach polyps, ulcers, or chronic gastritis
• Have a family history of gastric cancer

Stomach cancer symptoms

Signs of stomach cancer may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the upper belly
• Feeling full after eating just a little
• Nausea or vomiting
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Unplanned weight loss
• Black or bloody stool

Stomach cancer diagnosis

To find out if you have stomach cancer, doctors may:

• Review your medical history and symptoms
• Do a physical exam
• Order imaging tests like a CT scan or upper GI X-ray
• Use an endoscope to look inside the stomach
• Take a tissue sample (biopsy) for lab testing

Stomach cancer treatment

Depending on the stage of the cancer, treatment may include:

• Surgery to remove the cancer and part or all of the stomach
• Chemotherapy to shrink or kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy to target tumors
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy
• Support with eating and nutrition during and after treatment

When to seek care

See a doctor if you:

• Have ongoing belly pain, nausea, or indigestion
• Notice you’re losing weight without trying
• Feel full after eating very little
• See blood in your stool or vomit
• Have a family history of stomach cancer and want to learn about screening