Asbestos as cause of stomach cancer
Stomach cancer, when it is caused by asbestos exposure, is usually tied to high levels of asbestos exposure.
What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?
Asbestos-related stomach cancer may not be indicated by obvious or specific symptoms. Feelings of fatigue, bloating, and excessive fullness despite eating little may be symptoms. Other symptoms include nausea, heartburn, indigestion, stomach pain, vomiting and weight loss. Because symptoms are general and not specific to stomach cancer, it is important that you let your physician know if you have a history of asbestos exposure. A minor symptom usually treated with a wait-and-see approach may be more cause for concern in those with high levels of asbestos exposure.
How is stomach cancer diagnosed?
Imaging, as provided by CT scans or a barium swallow (where a special liquid provides additional contrast to x-rays taken of the stomach) are the least invasive testing methods for stomach cancer. Another common procedure is an upper endoscopy, where a small, lighted camera is passed into the stomach to look for signs of cancer. A small tissue sample or biopsy may be taken during this procedure for further analysis. Staging, or determination of the extent of the stomach cancer usually follows, with additional imaging through CT, PET (positron emission tomography), and x-rays or even exploratory surgery.
How do I know if my stomach cancer is asbestos-related?
If you know you have a history of asbestos exposure, there is a possibility that your stomach cancer is asbestos-related. Especially among non-smokers, a history of asbestos exposure is a common thread in stomach cancer diagnoses. Prior asbestos exposure may be revealed by the presence of pleural thickening or asbestosis in some stomach cancer patients.
