The rise in stomach cancer highlights the urgent need to address lifestyle habits, dietary choices, and chronic stress. As The Pioneer connects with experts, they emphasise early detection, personalised treatments and awareness as key to combating this formidable disease.
Imagine feeling a nagging discomfort after meals—bloating, heartburn, or a stubborn bout of indigestion. You brush it off, thinking it’s something you ate. But what if these everyday nuisances are whispers of something far more sinister? Stomach cancer, often called the “silent killer,” hides in plain sight, its symptoms blending seamlessly with common digestive woes. Early warning signs like unexplained weight loss, nausea, fatigue, or even a persistent loss of appetite can be easy to ignore. Why does this disease stay so well-hidden, and what can we do to catch it in time?
Stomach cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to diagnose and treat, often because its symptoms mimic common digestive issues. Dr. Prathyusha, associate consultant in medical oncology at Sparsh Hospital, sheds light on its complexities, from the most prevalent types to groundbreaking treatment options and the role of stress in its progression. The majority of stomach cancer cases are adenocarcinomas, but they’re not all the same. “Adenocarcinoma comes in two primary forms—intestinal and diffuse,” explains Dr. Prathyusha.
The intestinal type is closely tied to environmental factors, such as Helicobacter pylori infection and dietary choices. “When detected early, it offers a better prognosis due to its slower progression,” she adds. “This type progresses rapidly and is harder to manage, resulting in a poorer prognosis.” Less common types, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and lymphomas, require specialised treatments and can have varying outcomes depending on how early they are diagnosed. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment for early-stage stomach cancer, but techniques like laparoscopy and robotic surgery are transforming recovery times and outcomes. “For advanced stages, perioperative chemotherapy has become standard, improving survival rates,” says Dr. Prathyusha.
Survival Rates by Stage:
Stage I (Early-stage):
Five-year survival rates are around 60-70%, often with curative surgery alone.
Stage II & III (Locally advanced): These stages see survival rates drop to 30-50%, with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy being key.
Stage IV (Metastatic): Survival is less than 10%, as treatment focuses on extending life and improving quality. “Early detection through routine screenings and increased awareness is crucial to improving these outcomes,” she emphasises. Though stress doesn’t directly cause stomach cancer, it can significantly influence its progression. “Chronic stress weakens the immune system and promotes inflammation, creating a favorable environment for cancer growth,” explains Dr. Prathyusha.
Dr. Mansi Khanderia, lead consultant in medical oncology at SS Sparsh Hospital, further delves into the overlooked symptoms, contributing factors and the role of genetics in understanding and addressing this formidable disease.
Persistent indigestion, mild abdominal discomfort, bloating and feeling full quickly are some early warning signs. Unexplained weight loss and fatigue from anemia caused by chronic blood loss are other indicators. Unfortunately, these symptoms are frequently overlooked, especially in older adults or individuals with risk factors. “Patient awareness and routine check-ups are crucial,” says Dr Mansi, adding that timely evaluation can lead to early detection and significantly improve treatment outcomes. Dr. Khanderia explains that one major culprit is Helicobacter pylori infection, which exacerbates mucosal damage over time. Compounding factors like smoking, alcohol consumption and prolonged NSAID use amplify this risk. “Treating the underlying causes of chronic gastritis or ulcers and regular monitoring, especially in older adults, are essential to prevent progression to stomach cancer,” she advises
As a Group 1 carcinogen identified by the World Health Organisation, H. pylori infection is a significant contributor to gastric cancer. “It causes chronic inflammation, disrupts the stomach lining and induces precancerous changes,” Dr. Khanderia explains. The infection is particularly risky for individuals with a genetic predisposition or additional factors such as poor diet or chronic gastritis. Prevention strategies include routine screening in high-risk populations, timely eradication therapy using antibiotics and improved hygiene to reduce transmission.
“High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of gastric cancer or chronic gastritis, should undergo regular endoscopic surveillance,” she advises. Additional diagnostic methods include testing for H. pylori, checking serum pepsinogen levels and using CT scans for staging. The role of genetics in stomach cancer is profound. “A family history of stomach cancer significantly increases risk, especially with inherited genetic mutations like those in the CDH1 gene,” explains Dr. Khanderia. Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) and syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis further elevate the likelihood of developing the disease. Genetic counseling and early screening are crucial for individuals with a strong family history. Preventive strategies include regular endoscopies, dietary modifications and H. pylori eradication. “For those with a genetic predisposition, vigilance is key to catching the disease early or preventing its onset altogether,” she concludes.
Priya Paliwal, chief dietician at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, sheds light on how dietary habits influence stomach cancer risk, what to eat to lower it, and how to navigate nutrition during treatment. High salt intake and processed foods are two of the biggest dietary offenders when it comes to stomach cancer risk. “Excessive salt damages the stomach lining, making it more vulnerable to H. pylori infection, a major risk factor for gastric cancer,” explains Paliwal.
Processed foods, often laden with nitrates and nitrites, convert into carcinogenic compounds during digestion. These diets are also deficient in protective antioxidants and fiber. “The solution lies in fresh, unprocessed foods, moderate sodium levels, and staying hydrated,” she advises.
She highlights cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, vitamin C-packed fruits and foods rich in selenium and beta-carotene as particularly protective due to their antioxidant properties. Fermented foods such as yogurt and kimchi help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. “Red and processed meats, as well as smoked or pickled foods, should be limited,” she warns.
Anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and ginger can also soothe gastric irritation. The journey through stomach cancer treatment comes with its own nutritional challenges.
“High-protein foods like eggs, legumes and lean meats aid in tissue repair and energy recovery,” she says. Ginger and peppermint are natural remedies for nausea, while small, frequent meals ease digestive strain. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, spinach and nuts help combat oxidative stress from chemotherapy. Probiotics such as yogurt and kefir support gut health, which is often disrupted during treatment. “Hydration is crucial,” she adds, suggesting soups, smoothies and herbal teas as easy-to-consume options. From a nutritional standpoint, alcohol and smoking exacerbate the risk of stomach cancer. “Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and amplifies the carcinogenic effects of nitrosamines in smoked and processed foods,” Paliwal explains.
Smoking not only reduces stomach acid production, disrupting digestion, but also decreases the bioavailability of nutrients like vitamin C, further compounding the risk. “Quitting both habits and adopting a nutrient-rich diet is crucial to reduce gastric damage and overall cancer risk,” she emphasises. Fasting and detox diets are often touted as miracle solutions, but their role in stomach cancer prevention or management is limited. “While intermittent fasting may reduce inflammation and support cellular repair, extreme fasting or detox diets can deprive the body of essential nutrients,” Paliwal warns.
For those managing stomach cancer, nutritional stability is key. “Malnutrition can worsen outcomes, so rather than restrictive diets, focus on a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, whole foods, and adequate hydration,” she suggests. Always consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes. Your plate is a powerful tool in the fight against stomach cancer.
Meanwhile, according to Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals, as the urbanisation accelerates, so do sedentary lifestyles. Long working hours, limited physical activity and growing reliance on fast and processed foods have become common, particularly in urban areas. “These foods are often high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats and preservatives, all of which are linked to cancer due to their carcinogenic potential,” notes Dr. Badiger.
Modern, fast-paced lifestyles come with a toll—chronic stress. Beyond its psychological impact, stress triggers physiological changes like increased inflammation and weakened immunity, both of which can contribute to cancer development. “Stress often drives unhealthy coping mechanisms like overeating or consuming convenience foods, which are low in nutritional value and high in cancer risks,” says Dr. Badiger. “Routine screenings and preventive check-ups are scarce, leading to late-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes,” Dr. Badiger emphasises.
The rise in stomach cancer in India underscores the urgent need to address modern lifestyle habits, dietary practices, and chronic stress.. “By adopting healthier choices and fostering awareness, we can reduce the burden of stomach cancer and improve quality of life,” concludes Dr. Badiger.
