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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Often asymptomatic, stomach cancer has the sad disadvantage of being discovered too late. But according to Dr Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo, a surprising symptom should lead you to consult. Don’t let it pass.
Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, is the fifth most common cancer in France. According to the latest figures published, the number of new cases of stomach cancer was, in 2018, 6,557 in France, including 4,264 in men and 2,293 in women. The estimated number of deaths for the same year was 4,272, including 2,794 among men and 1,478 among women.
A cancer often discovered late
This cancer of part of the digestive system is generally associated with several factors.in particular, chronic gastritis mainly linked to infection by bacteria Helicobacter pylori, smoking, diet rich in salty products and poor in fresh vegetables and fruits, a history of stomach cancer in the family or a genetic predisposition increasing the risk of developing stomach cancer” indicates the National Cancer Institute.
But what also characterizes this pathology is its sad prognosis linked to its often late discovery: stomach cancer is generally diagnosed at an advanced stage, because the symptoms are not always understood from the start of the disease. In fact, the 5-year survival rate still remains low.
This symptom to recognize which should question you
The symptoms of stomach cancer can indeed be diffuse, but should, in any case, invite you to consult. These are generally those of all cancers:
- Unusual fatigue;
- Weight loss without dieting;
- A lack of appetite, a loss of desire to eat
But according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo, a symptom little known to the general public can put you on the path to stomach cancer: sudden disgust for a specific food.
“Stomach cancer is often asymptomatic, with no pain for a long time. And when symptoms do appear, the pain is most often attributed to simple gastric discomfort or an ulcer. Stomach pain persists for several weeks should be reported to a doctor for an endoscopy. But one symptom should attract attention: sudden disgust for certain foods. especially meat..
So be vigilant if your body refuses meat even though you had nothing against it. .
Other symptoms may also appear
- Nausea;
- Sudden intolerance to certain foods, for example coffee;
- Pressure or pain in the epigastrium;
- Vomiting accompanied by blood.
So don’t wait to consult. If you suddenly feel disgust for a type of food, raise the subject with your doctor, who will be aware of it.
Slide: 10 tips for taking care of your stomach