epidemiology of ca stomach Dr Naeem Ahmad PG General Surgery GMC Srinagar
INTRODUCTION Gastric cancer remains a significant global health issue despite a declining incidence in many parts of the world. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies .
Global Incidence and Mortality Incidence: . Gastric cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. In 2020, there were approximately 1.09 million new cases globally . Incidence rates are highest in East Asia, particularly in countries like Japan, South Korea, and China, as well as in Eastern Europe and parts of Central and South America. In India North eastern region has highest gastric cancer incidence and the Kashmir valley has a very high incidence of gastric cancer as compared to northern I ndia .It exceeds 40% of total cancer with an incidence rate of 3 to 6 folds higher than other cities of I ndia.
2. Mortality : Gastric cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. It accounted for around 768,000 deaths globally in 2020 . High mortality rates are often due to late diagnosis and the aggressive nature of the disease.
Geographic Variation High-incidence areas: East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea), Eastern Europe, and parts of Central and South America. Low-incidence areas: North America, Northern Europe, and parts of Africa and South Asia
Risk Factors Helicobacter pylori Infection : Strongly associated with gastric cancer, particularly non-cardia gastric cancer (cancer in the lower part of the stomach). H. pylori is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Diet and Lifestyle : High intake of salty and smoked foods and low intake of fruits and vegetables increase risk. Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are also significant risk factors. Genetic Factors : Family history of gastric cancer increases risk. Certain genetic syndromes (e.g., hereditary diffuse gastric cancer, Lynch syndrome , FAP , Li Fraumeni Syndrome ,PJ Syndrome ) are linked to higher susceptibility. Environmental Factors : Socioeconomic status and occupational exposures (e.g., to dust and certain chemicals like nitrites) play roles in risk variation
Age and Gender Age : Incidence increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over 50 years old. Gender : Males are about twice as likely to develop gastric cancer as females.
Types of Gastric Cancer Adenocarcinoma : The most common type, accounting for about 90-95% of cases. Divided into two main histological subtypes: intestinal and diffuse types. Intestinal type is more common in high-incidence areas and is associated with H. pylori infection and dietary factors. Diffuse type is less common and has a poorer prognosis. Other Types : Less common types include lymphomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and neuroendocrine tumors.
Trends and Prevention Trends : Declining incidence and mortality in many developed countries due to improved H. pylori management, dietary changes, and better sanitation. In some developing regions, incidence and mortality rates remain high due to persistent H. pylori infection and dietary habits.
Prevention : Eradication of H. pylori infection through antibiotic treatment. Dietary modifications to reduce intake of salty and smoked foods and increase fruits and vegetables. Smoking cessation and moderation of alcohol intake. Regular screening in high-risk populations (e.g., in Japan and South Korea) to detect and treat early-stage disease.