Query:
"Is stomach cancer fast spreading?"
Stomach cancer, which is also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in cells of the stomach lining. It is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and it is estimated that around 27,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with it each year.
When it comes to the speed of its spread, stomach cancer can be very slow or very aggressive. How quickly it spreads depends on the type of stomach cancer and the stage it is in when it is first diagnosed. Generally, there are two main types of stomach cancer: non-invasive and invasive.
Non-invasive stomach cancer, which is also known as carcinoma in situ, is the least aggressive form of stomach cancer. It is classified as stage 0 and is confined to the inner lining of the stomach. This type of stomach cancer is not likely to spread to other parts of the body and can often be treated successfully with surgery.
Invasive stomach cancer is a more advanced form of stomach cancer and is classified as stages I to IV. This type of cancer has spread beyond the stomach lining to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, liver, or lungs. It is more likely to spread quickly, and the prognosis is often not as good as with non-invasive stomach cancer.
In order to determine how quickly stomach cancer is likely to spread, the doctor will also consider the type of tumor, the size of the tumor, and any other factors that may affect its spread. For instance, if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, it is more likely to spread quickly. In addition, if the cancer is a aggressive type, such as signet-ring cell carcinoma, it is more likely to grow and spread quickly than other types.
In general, it is difficult to predict how quickly stomach cancer will spread. However, it is important to remember that early diagnosis and treatment is key to increasing the chances of successful treatment. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms of stomach cancer, such as abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.