Isro chief Somnath recovers from stomach cancer
THE Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) Chief S Somnath recently revealed he was diagnosed with stomach cancer on the day India's Aditya-L1 mission was launched into space. He said, in an interview with Tarmak Media House, that he underwent an operation followed by chemotherapy.
"It was a shock for the family. But now, I perceive cancer and its treatment as a solution," he said. He is completely cured now and will be undergoing check-ups and scans as a precautionary measure. The Isro chief, however, did not reveal what type of stomach cancer he had.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that start in the lining of the stomach. According to Harvard Medical School, the disease often does not cause symptoms until its later stages.
Most people who are diagnosed with stomach cancer are over the age of 60. Several factors increase the risk of stomach cancer such as a diet rich in smoked, salted or pickled foods, high consumption of alcohol or tobacco, a history of stomach irritation or ulcers, previous stomach surgery or family history. Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables could help reduce the risk.
There are various types of stomach cancer, including adenocarcinoma, Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and primary gastric lymphoma.
Some common symptoms of stomach cancer include loss of appetite, trouble swallowing, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, unexplained weight loss, feeling bloated, vomiting blood, stomach pain above the belly button and often feeling full after a small meal, among others.
Various tests like some types of blood tests, a CT scan, barium swallow and MRI, endoscopic ultrasound, and upper endoscopy can help diagnose stomach cancer.
Treatment for the disease depends on how far the cancer has spread. Special surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy are some treatment options suggested by experts depending on the diagnosis.
In India, stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer in men and the seventh most common cancer in women. It is also the second most common cause of cancer death globally.
Stomach cancer cases in India have increased in the past years, mainly due to dietary practices and alcohol intake.
