Difference between Gastric and Esophageal Cancer: What You Should Know
Cancer can develop in different parts of the digestive system, with gastric cancer (stomach cancer) and esophageal cancer being two common types. While both affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, they differ in causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Understanding these differences is crucial for early detection and better treatment outcomes.
If you are looking for specialized care, Dr. Viraj Lavingia a Medical Oncologist in Ahmedabad, Esophageal Cancer Specialist in Ahmedabad, or GI Oncologist in Ahmedabad can help guide you through the best treatment options.
What is Gastric Cancer?
Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, begins in the lining of the stomach. It often develops gradually over the years, starting with precancerous changes that may go unnoticed.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of stomach cancer is unknown, but certain factors increase the risk:
- A bacterial infection linked to ulcers and stomach cancer.
- Diet high in salty, smoked, and processed foods – These foods damage the stomach lining.
- Low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables – Nutrients and antioxidants protect against cancer.
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption – Irritate the stomach lining and increase cancer risk.
- Obesity – Leads to chronic inflammation, increasing cancer risk.
- Family history – Genetics play a role in some cases.
Symptoms of Gastric Cancer:
- Persistent stomach pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling full quickly, even after small meals
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blood in stool or black-colored stools
- Difficulty swallowing if the cancer is near the upper stomach
What is Esophageal Cancer?
Esophageal cancer develops in the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. It is more common in men and usually appears after age 50.
Causes and Risk Factors:
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing esophageal cancer:
- Smoking and alcohol consumption – Both damage the esophagus lining.
- Obesity – Can worsen acid reflux, raising cancer risk.
- HPV infection – Some cases are linked to human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Poor diet – Lack of fruits and vegetables weakens esophageal defenses.
- Exposure to certain chemicals – Certain workplace toxins contribute to the risk.
Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer:
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Hoarseness or persistent cough
- Regurgitation of food or vomiting
- Chronic heartburn or acid reflux
- Coughing up blood
Key Differences between Gastric and Esophageal Cancer:
Location: Gastric cancer occurs in the stomach, while esophageal cancer develops in the esophagus (food pipe).
Causes: Gastric cancer is often linked to diet, and smoking, while esophageal cancer is mainly associated with chronic acid reflux (GERD), smoking, and alcohol use.
Symptoms: Gastric cancer commonly presents with stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and weight loss, whereas esophageal cancer primarily causes difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and persistent coughing.
Diagnosis: Both cancers require endoscopy and biopsy for diagnosis. Additional tests like CT scans, PET scans, and barium swallow tests may be used for esophageal cancer.
Treatment Options: For both types, treatment depends on cancer stage and overall health. Gastric cancer is often treated with surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Esophageal cancer treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success. Common diagnostic procedures include:
- Endoscopy – A camera is inserted through the throat to examine the stomach and esophagus.
- Biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken for analysis.
- CT scan or MRI – Provides detailed images to check tumor size and spread.
- PET scan – Identifies cancer spread in the body.
Treatment for Gastric and Esophageal Cancer:
Gastric Cancer Treatment:
- Surgery – Partial or total removal of the stomach, depending on the tumor size and location.
- Chemotherapy – Used before or after surgery to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy – Targets specific proteins that promote cancer growth, such as HER2-positive gastric cancer.
- Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to help fight cancer.
Esophageal Cancer Treatment:
- Surgery – Removal of the affected part of the esophagus and connection of the remaining section to the stomach.
- Radiation Therapy – Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, often combined with chemotherapy.
- Chemotherapy – Helps shrink tumors before surgery or control cancer in later stages.
- Immunotherapy – Used in advanced cases when other treatments are ineffective.
How to Prevent Gastric and Esophageal Cancer?
While not all cases are preventable, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk:
- Eat a healthy diet – Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Avoid processed, salty, and smoked foods – These increase the risk of stomach cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity is a key risk factor for both cancers.
- Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake – Smoking and drinking are major causes of esophageal cancer.
- Manage acid reflux (GERD) – If you have frequent heartburn, consult a doctor to prevent complications.
- Get regular screenings – Especially if you have a family history of these cancers.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your vomit or stool, consult Dr. Viraj Lavingia a GI Oncologist in Ahmedabad immediately. Early detection and treatment improve survival rates for both gastric and esophageal cancer.
If you need expert medical guidance, Dr. Viraj Lavingia a Medical Oncologist in Ahmedabad, Esophageal Cancer Specialist in Ahmedabad, or a GI Oncologist in Ahmedabad can provide personalized treatment plans.
Both gastric and esophageal cancers affect the digestive system, but they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatments. Gastric cancer is often linked to H. pylori infections and diet, while esophageal cancer is mainly caused by acid reflux and smoking. Understanding these differences can help in early detection and better management.
If you or a loved one is facing these conditions, consult an experienced GI Oncologist in Ahmedabad for the best treatment options. By making healthy lifestyle choices and staying informed, you can lower your risk and take control of your health. If symptoms appear, seek medical help without delay.