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Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Secretary
RELATED
Gastroscopy
Indigestion
Stomach Ulcer
Second Opinion Gastroenterology
An uncommon but serious cancer where early investigation makes a real difference to outcomes.
What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer symptoms can easily be mistaken for everyday indigestion at first. Stomach cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the stomach lining. It is relatively uncommon, but persistent symptoms should always be properly investigated.
Rapid, thorough investigation matters most with symptoms like these. As IBD Service Lead, Dr Kejariwal provides this for patients across Newcastle, Durham, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland.
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include long-term H. pylori infection and smoking. A diet high in salted or smoked foods raises risk. So does a family history of stomach cancer (NHS, 2026). Rates have declined in the UK in recent decades.
Symptoms
- Persistent indigestion or heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood
When to seek help: Get urgent assessment for persistent indigestion with swallowing difficulty, weight loss, or vomiting blood.
How is stomach cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis is confirmed by gastroscopy with biopsies. This allows direct examination and lab analysis. Imaging assesses the full extent of any findings.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment depends entirely on the stage at diagnosis. It may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination. This is coordinated with a specialist cancer team. Dr Kejariwal guides you through the pathway clearly and promptly.
Living with stomach cancer in 2026
Stomach cancer is relatively uncommon compared with other gastrointestinal cancers. Outcomes are far better when caught early, before it spreads beyond the stomach. This is why persistent symptoms should always be properly investigated.
Self-care and prevention
Avoid smoking and limit salted, smoked and processed foods. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Ensure any H. pylori infection is properly treated, and attend recommended follow-up appointments.
What happens at your appointment?
You meet Dr Kejariwal at Cobalt Hospital for a full consultation. He reviews your symptoms, history, and any past tests. He explains what he thinks is happening in plain English. Together you agree a clear next step, whether that means more tests, starting treatment, or simple monitoring. A written summary goes to you and your GP after every visit. Most patients are seen within one to two weeks, and urgent concerns are prioritised.
When to see a specialist
See a specialist promptly for persistent indigestion, swallowing difficulty, or unexplained weight loss, especially if new or worsening.
Frequently asked questions about stomach cancer
Who is most at risk of stomach cancer?
Risk factors include long-term H. pylori infection, smoking, a diet high in salted foods, and a family history.
How is stomach cancer diagnosed?
It is diagnosed through gastroscopy with biopsy, allowing direct examination and lab analysis of the stomach lining.
What are the treatment options if stomach cancer is confirmed?
Treatment depends on stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination, with a specialist cancer team.
Is stomach cancer hereditary?
Most cases are not directly inherited, though a small proportion link to inherited conditions. A close relative modestly raises risk.
Concerned about symptoms?
Most patients are seen within one to two weeks at Cobalt Hospital.
Related
- Gastroscopy
- Indigestion
- Stomach Ulcer
- Second Opinion Gastroenterology
Trusted information
Official NHS guide, general cancer symptoms and when to seek help.