According to health professionals, action must be taken in time to achieve early detection of gastric cancer.
In it International Day against Gastric Cancer and Gastrectomized People, specialist doctors draw attention to the prevention of a disease that can be fatal if there is no timely treatment.
On this date we seek to raise awareness about this disease, its risks and the importance of early detection.
Although the symptoms are often confused with common ailments, experts insist on not overlooking signs such as discomfort or pain. persistent pain in the stomach.
“In Colombia, gastric cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers. According to Globocan 2020, the adjusted incidence is between 12 and 13 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, which positions the country among those with the highest burden in Latin America,” indicated the specialist. Angela Zambranoclinical oncologist at the Nueva Granada Military University.
He stressed that the gastric canceralso known as stomach cancer, originates when the cells of this organ begin to grow uncontrollably.
“Located in the upper left part of the abdomen, the stomach plays a key role in digestion, so any alteration must be addressed promptly,” he said.
Frequent illness
Medical oncologist Ángela Zambrano explains that in the country this disease continues to be one of the most frequent, especially among men.
“Although the statistics by age show a stable or slightly decreasing trend, the expert warns that the total number of diagnoses could increase due to population aging. Strong regional inequalities also persist: Andean areas, vulnerable communities and even indigenous populations register a higher risk,” she said.
According to the American Cancer Societythis type of cancer usually develops slowly over several years. Before it appears, precancerous changes may arise in the inner lining of the stomach, which do not cause obvious symptoms.
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“Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to signs that are frequently confused with common gastrointestinal problems,” he noted.
He warned that you should be attentive to symptoms such as: a feeling of rapid fullness, decreased appetite, burning or burning in the stomach, abdominal bloating, nausea or vomiting, and constipation.
“They are common symptoms in many pathologies, but if they persist or intensify, they should be a reason for medical consultation“, accurate.
Risk factors
He stressed that, although there is no guaranteed way to prevent gastric cancer, there are factors that increase the probability of developing it:
- Gender: greater frequency in men.
- Age: It is mainly diagnosed between 60 and 80 years of age.
- Geography: prevalent in East Asia, Eastern Europe and South America.
- Helicobacter pylori: main cause in the lower part of the stomach.
- Overweight and obesity: associated with cancer close to the esophagus.
- Inadequate nutrition: high consumption of salt, processed meats and low consumption of fruits.
- Alcohol and tobacco: significantly increase the risk.
Tool to detect symptoms
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He stated that being well informed is a decisive element for prevention and timely treatment.
Doctor Zambrano highlights that health education “It is the most cost-effective tool against the disease, as long as the information is clear and reliable.”
“In this line, Astellas Pharma Colombia launched Astellas Healthcare E-Citya virtual platform created to strengthen health literacy and facilitate access to scientifically supported educational content. The project, successful since its implementation in Brazil in 2023, now arrives in Colombia to help the population recognize symptoms, understand risk factors and promote early diagnosis of gastric cancer,” he explained.
The doctor Kenny Arciniegas Morenomedical leader of the oncology area at Astellas Farma Colombia, highlights that evidence-based information should be seen as a tool to empower patients.
“Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the importance of medical care and communicating effectively with the health professional are essential steps to improve the diagnostic process and the possibilities of successful management,” he pointed out.
Source: Integrated Information System
