Can blood test detect stomach cancer?
Blood Test for Detecting Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a cancer that develops in the stomach. It is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of just 26%. Early diagnosis is key to improving the chances of survival. One of the tests used to diagnose stomach cancer is a blood test.
What is a Blood Test?
A blood test is a laboratory analysis of a sample of blood taken from a person's body. Blood tests can be used to check for various medical conditions, including infections, nutritional deficiencies, and to measure the levels of substances such as hormones, cholesterol, and glucose.
Can a Blood Test Detect Stomach Cancer?
A blood test can be used to detect the presence of certain markers that may indicate stomach cancer. These markers include blood proteins such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA). A high level of these markers can suggest the presence of cancer in the stomach. However, it is important to note that high levels of these proteins can also be a sign of other conditions such as ulcers and inflammation.
In addition to these markers, blood tests can also be used to detect anemia, which can be a sign of advanced stomach cancer. Anemia is caused by a lack of red blood cells, which can be a result of blood loss due to a tumor in the stomach.
Other Tests for Detecting Stomach Cancer
In addition to a blood test, other tests can be performed to detect stomach cancer. These tests include an endoscopy, in which a camera is inserted down the throat to look for tumors in the stomach; a biopsy, in which a sample of tissue is taken from the stomach for analysis; and imaging tests such as an X-ray or CT scan.
Conclusion
A blood test can be used to detect the presence of certain markers that may indicate stomach cancer. However, these markers can also be a sign of other conditions such as ulcers and inflammation. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor for further testing and diagnosis. In addition to a blood test, other tests such as an endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests can be used to detect stomach cancer.