During Stomach Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing what you should know about the 15th most common cancer in the United States. Though stomach cancer is rare, making up 1.5 percent of all cancer diagnoses, certain risk factors, such as diet, smoking and obesity, may increase risk for developing the disease. Most patients with early-stage stomach cancer have no symptoms of the disease. The cancer often reaches an advanced stage before a diagnosis is made and treatment can begin. Individuals may mistake their symptoms for a common stomach virus.
Symptoms of stomach cancer may include:
• A feeling of fullness after eating small meals
• Heartburn, indigestion or symptoms similar to having an ulcer
• Nausea and vomiting, which may contain blood
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain above the navel
• Abdominal swelling or fluid build-up
In some cases, doctors may identify symptoms of stomach cancer during a routine physical exam.
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