Recognizing Stomach Cancer and the Therapies Used to Treat It
Stomach cancer occurs when cancer cells form in the lining of the stomach. It often develops slowly over time, which means early signs can be mild or easy to overlook. There are treatments like Ripretinib (Qinlock) available, which help treat stomach cancers by blocking specific proteins that drive cancer cell growth and spread.
Understanding the warning signs and knowing the available treatments can help people seek care earlier and make informed decisions. Let's take a closer look so you know what to speak to your doctor about.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
One of the challenges with stomach cancer is that early symptoms often look like common digestive problems. Many people may dismiss these signs as indigestion or stress, delaying a doctor’s visit. However, paying attention to ongoing or worsening symptoms is important.
- Persistent stomach pain or discomfort is one of the most common signs. This pain may feel like burning, aching or pressure in the upper abdomen. Unlike occasional indigestion, the discomfort does not go away and may become more intense over time.
- Frequent indigestion or heartburn can also be a warning sign. While heartburn is common, stomach cancer may cause indigestion that does not improve with over-the-counter medications. Some people notice a constant feeling of fullness or bloating, even after eating small meals.
- Loss of appetite and early fullness are important symptoms to note. People with stomach cancer may feel full after just a few bites of food. This can lead to eating less overall, which may cause unintended weight loss.
- Unexplained weight loss is a red flag for many cancers, including stomach cancer. Losing weight without trying—especially when combined with digestive symptoms—should always be discussed with a healthcare provider.
- Nausea and vomiting may occur, especially as the cancer grows and affects digestion. In more advanced cases, vomiting may include blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, which can indicate internal bleeding.
- Blood in the stool or dark, tar-like stools can be another sign. This happens when bleeding occurs in the stomach and passes through the digestive tract. These changes are not always obvious, but they are serious and need immediate medical attention.
- Fatigue and weakness may develop due to anemia, which happens when slow bleeding from the stomach lowers red blood cell levels. People may feel unusually tired, short of breath, or lightheaded.
Because these symptoms can have many causes, having one does not automatically mean cancer. However, symptoms that persist for weeks or worsen over time should not be ignored.
Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer
Treatment for stomach cancer depends on several factors, including the cancer’s type, stage and whether it has spread. Doctors often use a combination of treatments to achieve the best results.
Ripretinib (Qinlock)
Ripretinib, sold under the brand name Qinlock, is a targeted therapy used for certain stomach-related cancers, especially gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), a rare type of tumor that can form in the stomach. It works by blocking specific proteins that help cancer cells grow. Ripretinib is usually prescribed when other treatments have stopped working and is taken as a daily pill.
Surgery
Surgery is one of the main treatments when stomach cancer is found early. Depending on the tumor’s size and location, surgeons may remove part of the stomach or the entire stomach. Nearby lymph nodes are often removed as well. Surgery offers the best chance for a cure in early-stage stomach cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It may be given before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, or as the main treatment if surgery is not possible. Chemotherapy can help relieve symptoms and extend life in advanced cases.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is sometimes combined with chemotherapy, especially after surgery, to reduce the chance of the cancer returning. Radiation may also be used to relieve pain or bleeding in advanced stages.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies focus on specific changes in cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy, they are designed to limit damage to healthy cells. These treatments are only used when tests show that the cancer has certain markers or mutations.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Some stomach cancers respond well to this approach, especially in later stages. Immunotherapy may be used alone or alongside chemotherapy.
Seek Medical Help When Needed
Stomach cancer can be difficult to detect early because its symptoms often seem mild at first. Persistent stomach discomfort, unexplained weight loss, ongoing indigestion and signs of internal bleeding should always be checked by a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment options and outcomes.
Advances in treatment—including surgery, chemotherapy, targeted drugs like Ripretinib (Qinlock) and immunotherapy—have improved survival and quality of life for many patients. Anyone with concerns or ongoing symptoms should seek medical advice, as early action can make a meaningful difference.
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The information on this website is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health, diet or treatment plan.