Stomach Cancers
Symptoms
Many symptoms of stomach cancers are similar to less serious conditions with early stage signs being persistent indigestion, heartburn, trapped wind, difficulty swallowing and vomiting. The more advanced signs include blood in your stools, a swelling or lump in the stomach, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, anaemia and jaundice.
Around 90% of stomach cancers appear in people aged over 55.
Diagnosis
It is easier to treat if diagnosed early and GPs are instructed to check symptoms and examine your stomach for any lumpiness or tenderness and to refer to a specialist for further investigation. A GP should also refer you to a specialist if you have indigestion and weight loss.
You may need a blood test or a gastroscopy and biopsy, using a narrow flexible tube to examine the inside of the stomach, and possibly take a small tissue sample for testing
Treatment
Treatment will vary depending on your general health and how far advanced the cancer has become.
The three main treatment options are surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. An operation is usually recommended if the cancer has been detected early and the damaged tissue can be removed.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are normally prescribed at a later stage to kill cancer cells and arrest tumour growth. Biological treatments, which stimulate the body’s immune system to fight back, are also available
It is estimated that a cure is possible in 20-30% of cases.
To ask a question about stomach cancer or to book an appointment, contact our specialist team available
Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm and on Saturday from 9am – 1pm.
Our gastrointestinal specialists team have a dedicated and caring approach and will seek to find you the earliest appointment possible with the correct specialist for your needs.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP.
You can simply refer yourself and book an appointment. If you have medical insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa PPP, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer for authorisation for any treatment and, in most cases, you will require a referral letter from your GP. If you do not have a GP, then we have an in-house private GP practice that you can use.Alternatively we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstance.
Call us on 020 7078 3802 or email us at [email protected]
