although it varies depending on the type and stage of the cancer, surgery is usually recommended to treat stomach cancer. if the disease has not spread extensively, it is possible this can be done through an upper endoscopy. if the cancer has progressed, however, doctors may be forced to perform a gastrectomy that removes all or part of the stomach. other treatments — including chemotherapy, radiation, targeted drug therapy and immunology — may also be used to attack the cancer cells directly.
preventing stomach cancer
stomach cancer can’t be prevented but you can lower your risk of encountering the disease by making some lifestyle changes.
according to healthline
, these include eating a healthy diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcoholic intake and exercising regularly.
how many canadians will be diagnosed with stomach cancer?
it is estimated
that around 4,100 canadians
(2,600 men and 1,450 women) will develop stomach cancer in 2022. in the same year, it is projected that roughly 2,000 people (1,250 men and 730 women) will die from the disease.
support and resources for stomach cancer
the
canadian cancer society
,
my gut feeling
, and the
canadian digestive health foundation
offers information about stomach cancer, as well as stories from patients and caregivers and access to support groups.