Unregulated cell growth and division in the stomach lining is called stomach cancer or gastric cancer. The stomach is a muscular, ‘J’-shaped organ located in the abdomen, playing a critical role in digestion by breaking down food into essential nutrients and amino acids to meet the body’s energy demands.
Causes of Stomach Cancer
The primary cause of stomach cancer lies in genetic alterations within the cells of the stomach lining. These changes trigger uncontrolled cell division, leading to the formation of cancerous growths that disrupt normal stomach function. Factors like chronic inflammation from infections, such as Helicobacter pylori, account for more than 60% of cases of stomach cancer.
Symptoms of Stomach Cancer
- Indigestion (dyspepsia) or heartburn
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
- Unexplained weight loss
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting material that resembles coffee grounds (hematemesis)
These symptoms are not definitive signs of stomach cancer but warrant medical attention.
Risk Factors
- Infections: Contaminated water sources with H. pylori
- Lifestyle: Smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity
- Genetics: Family history or hereditary conditions like HDGC
- Medical History: Stomach surgeries, chronic gastritis, stomach polyps
- Diet: High intake of smoked, salted, or processed foods
- Age/Gender: More common in men over 50
- Environmental: Exposure to asbestos and pesticides
Stomach Cancer in India
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in India, with higher prevalence in the southern and north-eastern regions. The primary causes include dietary habits and H. pylori infections due to poor sanitation.
Challenges of Allopathic Treatment
- Low Survival Rate: 20-30% in India compared to over 60% in developed countries
- High Recurrence Rate: 40-60% recurrence within 2-3 years
- Expensive Care: Financial burden on families in low-resource settings
- Severe Side Effects: Nausea, fatigue, weakened immunity
Homeopathic Treatment
Homeopathy focuses on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. It works by restoring the body's natural healing energy (vital force) to address the root cause rather than just eliminating cancerous cells. According to homeopathy, suppression of disease without addressing its cause may lead to recurrence.