Stomach Cancer

What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is the result of abnormal cell changes in the lining of the stomach. The most common site of cancer is close to the oesophagus or gullet. Stomach cancer is more common in men than women and its peak age range is those between 40 and 60 years old.

Can I prevent stomach cancer?
Unsurprisingly, it is thought that diet can have a direct impact on your chances of developing stomach cancer. We recommend you:

1. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables at every meal time.

2. Eat organic foods whenever you can.

3. Avoid processed foods and anything with extra preservatives/high salt content, especially meat products like sausages and frozen/ready meals e.g. pies and beefburgers.Cutting down on fattier cuts of meat is also wise e.g. bacon and organ meats such as liver. Fish and poultry are good alternatives to red meat, as are soya and quorn.

4. Maintain healthy levels of iron through drinking prune juice, and eating bran flakes and beans.

5. Don’t get stressed out. And when you do, try to manage it through meditation, going for a run or even a spot of kick-boxing?!

6. Drink more water and less alcohol.

Learn more about nutrition and exercise.

How do I know if I have stomach cancer?

There are a number of signs you can look out for, but many of them are also caused by other less serious illnesses. If you experience them, talk to your doctor:

• Not feeling hungry

• Feeling very tired and lethargic

• Indigestion

• Unexplained weigh loss or bloating after a small amount of food

• Blood in your vomit or faeces or black tar like faeces.

If you have any concerns about your health please consult a trained healthcare professional.