Man Diagnosed with Stage Three Stomach Cancer After Six Months of Digestive Issues; Doctor Reveals 'Bad Habit' Linked to Infection

A 68-year-old man in Taichung, Taiwan, was diagnosed with stage three stomach cancer after suffering from indigestion and bloating for six months. He initially mistook his symptoms for acid reflux or an ulcer, delaying medical attention until the condition had progressed significantly.

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The transmission routes of Helicobacter pylori infection include oral transmission. Saliva carrying the bacteria through shared utensils, kissing, or using open sauce containers can increase the risk of cross-infection.

Doctors at Guang Tian General Hospital's Dajia branch performed a gastroscopy, which revealed abnormalities in the stomach lining. Subsequent pathological examination confirmed stage three cancer, with the disease having invaded local lymph nodes. The patient is now undergoing surgery. Dr. Su Jian-sheng, a gastroenterologist, highlighted that Helicobacter pylori infection, a known risk factor for stomach cancer, can spread through oral transmission, including sharing utensils, kissing, or using open sauce containers.

While surgery remains the primary treatment for stomach cancer, early detection is crucial, with survival rates exceeding 90% for early-stage cases. The patient's delayed diagnosis meant the cancer had advanced, necessitating more complex treatment. Given his age, the medical team opted for a minimally invasive robotic surgery using the da Vinci system to avoid the pain and prolonged recovery associated with traditional open surgery, and to reduce the risk of post-operative complications like pneumonia or cardiopulmonary issues.

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The early symptoms of stomach cancer are easily overlooked. If detected and surgically removed early, the survival rate can be as high as over 90%.

Doctors are observing an increasing trend in stomach cancer diagnoses in the coastal areas of central Taiwan. Besides factors like high-salt diets and processed or pickled foods, H. pylori infection is a major contributor. The hospital urges individuals over 50, especially those who smoke, drink, or have a family history of stomach cancer, to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as abdominal bloating, weight loss, or black stools.

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Recently, there has been an increasing trend in stomach cancer diagnoses among patients seeking treatment in the coastal areas of central Taiwan.