gastric_ cancer
1st Stage of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer (also called gastric cancer) often develops slowly over many years. When detected early—especially in Stage 1—the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. Unfortunately, early stomach cancer may not cause strong or obvious symptoms, which is why awareness is important.
Why Early Stage Matters?
At this stage, the cancer is highly treatable, and surgery often offers a good chance of cure. Treatment may also involve endoscopic removal, depending on tumor size and location.
Early Symptoms of Stage 1 Stomach Cancer
Early-stage stomach cancer can be silent, but some people may notice subtle symptoms. These are often mistaken for gastritis or acidity.
Common Symptoms
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Persistent indigestion or heartburn
Mild burning or discomfort that does not improve with routine antacids. -
Feeling of fullness after eating small amounts
Early satiety due to minor changes in stomach function. -
Unexplained mild stomach discomfort
Vague burning, bloating, or discomfort in the upper abdomen. Loss of appetite
Reduced interest in eating without any obvious reason.-
Nausea or occasional vomiting
More common after meals. -
Mild unintentional weight loss
-
Fatigue
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Slight anemia (weakness, pale skin) due to slow internal bleeding
Less Common Symptoms
These are infrequent but may occur:
How Stage 1 Stomach Cancer is Diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of:
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Endoscopy (EGD): A camera is passed through the throat to see the stomach lining.
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Biopsy: Tissue samples confirm cancer diagnosis.
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CT scan or endoscopic ultrasound: To check how far the tumor has spread.
Who is at Higher Risk?
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H. pylori infection
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Family history of gastric cancer
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Smoking
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Diet rich in smoked/pickled foods
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Chronic gastritis or stomach ulcers
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Pernicious anemia
Treatment Options for Stage 1
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Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for very early lesions
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Surgery (partial or total gastrectomy) depending on tumor size
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Sometimes chemotherapy after surgery (adjuvant) for Stage 1B
Prognosis is generally excellent when diagnosed in Stage 1.
When to See a Doctor?
If you have persistent indigestion, unexplained abdominal discomfort, or early satiety lasting more than 2–3 weeks, especially if you're over 40 or have risk factors, you should seek medical evaluation.
Stage 1 Stomach Cancer – Symptoms
| Category | Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Digestive Symptoms | Persistent Indigestion | Ongoing burning or discomfort, not relieved by antacids. |
| Early Satiety | Feeling full after eating very small amounts. | |
| Mild Upper Abdominal Pain | Vague discomfort, bloating, or pressure in upper stomach. | |
| Nausea | Occasional nausea, especially after meals. | |
| Vomiting (occasional) | Mild or infrequent vomiting. | |
| Appetite & Weight | Loss of Appetite | Decreased desire to eat without clear reason. |
| Mild Weight Loss | Unintentional, gradual reduction in weight. | |
| General Symptoms | Fatigue | Tiredness due to reduced food intake or mild anemia. |
| Mild Anemia | Weakness, pale skin, dizziness from slow internal bleeding. | |
| Less Common Signs | Bloating After Meals | Feeling heavy or uncomfortable after eating. |
| Heartburn | Persistent burning sensation in chest or stomach. |
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