ABNORMAL SIGNS IN THE STOMACH EARLY SCREENING NEEDED

This article is reviewed by Dr. Nguyen Huy Bang, a specialist in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at CarePlus International Clinics. 

According to the 2022 GLOBOCAN statistics, gastrointestinal cancer accounts for over 30% of cancer cases in Vietnam, with stomach cancer being the most common (10.6%), followed by colorectal cancer (9.9%). 

The disease is trending towards affecting younger people and increasing in prevalence due to environmental factors, lifestyle, and diet. However, early symptoms are often vague and develop silently, making them easy to overlook or mistake for other digestive disorders, leading to late detection. 

👉 Below are the "SOS" signals from your stomach that you need to pay attention to, so you can seek early consultation and screening to prevent the disease from progressing into dangerous complications: 

1. Bloating, indigestion: 

One of the first symptoms often ignored is a feeling of bloating or abdominal distension after eating. This pain resembles a stomach ulcer and tends to improve with ulcer medications, leading patients to downplay the symptoms and seek medical attention only when it's too late. 

If bloating and abdominal distension persist, it may indicate a more significant stomach problem, possibly caused by a tumor. 

2. Loss of Appetite: 

A change in eating habits, particularly a loss of appetite, is a critical sign to watch for. In many cases, this symptom isn't just about taste issues; you should consult a doctor and undergo early screening to rule out the possibility of cancer. 

3. Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue: 

Rapid weight loss over a short period, accompanied by a persistent feeling of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea, and fatigue, could be a warning sign of stomach cancer. If you experience these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get a health checkup. 

4. Vomiting Blood: 

This is a sign of stomach injury or other serious conditions. You need to see a doctor early for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

5. Heartburn after meals: 

Acid reflux, heartburn, and bloating after eating are common symptoms often overlooked. Heartburn is a complex symptom and could be a sign of cancer (usually associated with abdominal pain or epigastric pain) or a risk factor for cancer. People with heartburn may have peptic ulcers, meaning they have excess stomach acid, which increases their risk of stomach cancer. 

6. Abnormal Stool Color: 

Black stools or stools with blood are dangerous symptoms often associated with severe stomach problems. This could indicate bleeding or cancer, and you need to seek medical attention immediately. 

Stomach cancer is a complex disease, but it is entirely treatable if detected early. Do not ignore these minor signs, as they can lead to more severe digestive complications. Take proactive steps today to screen and care for your digestive health to prevent cancer and other complications.