When we talk about stomach health, stomach cancer is undoubtedly a worrying topic. Especially in the middle-aged and elderly population, the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer have been high. However, the discussion about stomach cancer is not always gloomy. In fact, we have more knowledge and tools than ever before for the prevention and early diagnosis of stomach cancer.
Demystifying intestinal metaplasia: the invisible alarm for stomach health
Intestinal metaplasia, a term that is not unfamiliar to the medical community, is often overlooked by the public. It refers to a change in the cells of the gastric mucosa, in which the cells that originally belonged to the stomach are gradually transformed into intestinal type cells. This change may sound trivial, but it is an important clue to understanding stomach health.
First of all, intestinal metaplasia does not directly cause symptoms, which means that many people may suffer from the lesion without any discomfort. Therefore, this change is often discovered unexpectedly during a gastroscopy. Under gastroscopy, the doctor can observe changes in the color and texture of the gastric mucosa, which is direct evidence of intestinal metaplasia.
But why is intestinal metaplasia so important? The key is its association with stomach cancer. Although intestinal metaplasia itself is not cancer, long-term intestinal metaplasia may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Medical studies have shown that the appearance of intestinal metaplasia is an early marker in the development of gastric cancer. This doesn't mean that every patient with intestinal metaplasia will develop stomach cancer, but it does serve as a reminder to be vigilant about this change.
Therefore, when doctors find intestinal metaplasia during a gastroscopy, they usually recommend that the patient have regular follow-ups. The aim is to detect any possible signs of malignant transformation early and to take treatment if necessary.
In addition to regular check-ups, lifestyle changes are also key to preventing intestinal metaplasia from worsening. Healthy eating habits, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are all effective ways to reduce the risk of further development of intestinal metaplasia.
Gastric stromal tumor: When the stomach is alerted to no longer cancer
Gastric stromal tumors have a place among stomach tumors, but it does not always herald cancer. Compared with traditional gastric cancer, the pathogenesis, treatment and prognosis of gastric stromal tumors are fundamentally different.
The true face of gastric stromal tumor
Gastric stromal tumors arise from the interstitial cells of the stomach wall, which play an important role in the gastrointestinal tract. Most gastric stromal tumors arise from abnormal growth of these cells. They can be benign or malignant, but not all gastric stromal tumors develop into stomach cancer.
Identify signals of gastric stromal tumors
Symptoms of gastric stromal tumors are usually insidious, sometimes asymptomatic, and sometimes present with abdominal pain, indigestion, or occult blood. These symptoms are more common and nonspecific than those of stomach cancer. Therefore, regular health check-ups are essential for the early detection of gastric stromal tumors.
Detection and diagnosis of gastric stromal tumors
Diagnosis of gastric stromal tumors is usually based on endoscopy and imaging tests, such as CT scans. Sometimes, the diagnosis is confirmed by biomicroscopy. These tests help determine the size and location of the tumor, and whether it has a tendency to worsen.
Methods for treating gastric stromal tumors
Treatment for gastric stromal tumors depends on a variety of factors, including the size, location, and degree of malignancy of the tumor. Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment for early-stage gastric stromal tumors. In some cases, especially malignant or advanced gastric stromal tumors, adjunctive medications, such as imatinib, may be needed.
From intestinal metaplasia to gastric stromal tumors: a practical guide to prevention and treatment
Intestinal metaplasia and gastric stromal tumors, while not necessarily causing stomach cancer, are the signal lights for stomach health. Understanding the nature of these diseases and how to manage them is essential to prevent stomach cancer.
Prevention of intestinal metaplasia
Intestinal metaplasia is a process of abnormal transformation of gastric mucosal cells that can be prevented by reducing exposure to carcinogenic factors. This includes:
Reduce smoking and alcohol abuse
Control your intake of high-salt and pickled foods
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and maintain a balanced diet
Maintain a healthy weight and exercise moderately
Prevention and treatment of gastric stromal tumors
Although specific preventive measures for gastric stromal tumors are not clear,