Stomach cancer cases are on a raise in India and we believe that the root causes lie deeper than diet and genetics. For years, Gas is considered as minor gastrointestinal disturbance due to indigestion. However, these common symptoms may sometimes signal more serious health issues, including an increased risk of stomach cancer.
With November marking Cancer Awareness Month, it’s vital to explore the connections between seemingly benign digestive problems and this potentially fatal disease.
Understanding Stomach Cancer and Its Prevalence in India
Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, arises when malignant cells form in the stomach lining. Globally, it is the fifth most common cancer and the third leading cause of cancer deaths. In India, stomach cancer accounts for nearly 8% of all cancer cases annually, with states like Mizoram, Nagaland, and Kerala recording alarmingly high incidences.
Experts attribute this rise to various factors, including dietary habits, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections, smoking, alcohol consumption, and genetic predisposition. Yet, a subtler contributor often goes unnoticed—chronic and untreated gastrointestinal issues, including gas, acidity, and heartburn.
Gas and Its Deeper Implications
For most people, gas is a harmless and routine occurrence, resulting from digestion or swallowing air. However, persistent gas accompanied by symptoms like frequent indigestion, bloating, or stomach pain could point to a more serious underlying condition.
“Chronic gastritis, ulcers, or H. pylori infections, for instance, are well-documented precursors to stomach cancer. H. pylori, a bacterium commonly found in the stomach, infects millions of Indians. While many infections remain asymptomatic, others lead to chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, which may progress to atrophic gastritis and, eventually, cancer,” Dr. Rahul S Kanaka, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Manipal Hospital, Hebbal told Financial Express.com.
Unfortunately, symptoms like gas and bloating are often dismissed or self-treated with over-the-counter antacids, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle
India’s rich culinary heritage, while celebrated globally, may contribute to gastric cancer risk in some cases. “High consumption of spicy foods, pickles, and smoked or salted fish—especially in regions like the Northeast—has been linked to increased stomach cancer rates. These foods often contain nitrates and nitrites, which can form carcinogenic compounds in the stomach,” Dr. Kanaka told Financial Express.com.
Moreover, modern lifestyles characterized by irregular meals, excessive alcohol, smoking, and stress further exacerbate gastrointestinal problems. Combined with the widespread availability of processed foods and sugary drinks, these factors create a perfect storm for chronic digestive issues, which can eventually evolve into serious conditions, he said.
Early Symptoms: Not to Be Ignored
Stomach cancer often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only in its advanced stages. However, there are early warning signs that should never be ignored:
- Persistent indigestion or heartburn.
- Frequent bloating or abdominal discomfort.
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
- Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools.
- Nausea or vomiting, sometimes with blood.
While these symptoms can stem from less severe issues, seeking medical advice is crucial, especially if they persist or worsen over time, he explained.
Prevention and Early Detection
The good news is that stomach cancer is preventable and treatable if detected early. Here’s how individuals can reduce their risk:
- Screening and Diagnosis: Regular health check-ups, particularly for those with a family history of gastric cancer or chronic digestive problems, are essential. Non-invasive tests for H. pylori and endoscopies can help catch potential issues early.
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps neutralize harmful stomach acids and reduces inflammation. Avoiding overly salty, pickled, or
smoked foods is equally important. - Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use: These substances irritate the stomach lining and significantly increase cancer risk.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can improve digestion and overall health.
- Manage Stress: Stress often worsens gastrointestinal symptoms, so incorporating relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can be beneficial.
The Road Ahead
The rise in stomach cancer cases in India underscores the need for greater awareness and proactive healthcare measures. Education campaigns should emphasize the importance of not ignoring chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, especially among high-risk populations.
“Simultaneously, improving access to diagnostic tools and treatment in rural and underserved areas is crucial to tackling this growing health crisis. As we observe Cancer Awareness Month, let us pledge to be more mindful of our health. Gas might just be gas, but sometimes, it can be the first sign of something much more serious. By paying attention to our bodies and seeking timely medical advice, we can catch potential problems early and save lives,” Dr. Kanaka told Financial Express.com.