Stomach cancer is a growing health concern in Singapore, ranking as the 5th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and the 4th in men, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). One major reason for its high mortality rate is late diagnosis, which significantly lowers a patient’s survival chances. Therefore, early detection is key to improving stomach cancer survival rates, making regular screening essential, especially for those with symptoms.
Among the various stomach cancer screening methods available, endoscopy is considered one of the most effective ways to detect stomach cancer in its early stages. But how do you know if you need one? In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms of stomach cancer, common types of endoscopy screenings, and how these screenings can help you take proactive steps to maintain your health.
The Importance of Stomach Cancer Screening
Detecting stomach cancer in the early stages plays a pivotal role in improving your survival rate. Several screening methods are available, but one of the most effective is an endoscopy. This is because it exhibits a higher sensitivity and specificity than certain other screening methods such as radiographic screening.
An endoscopy screening procedure will usually entail a long thin tube with a small camera attached to the end being passed through a natural opening of your body, like your mouth. There are also various types of endoscopic screening, and your doctor will recommend one depending on your symptoms.
Here are a few common types of endoscopies:
- Gastroscopy: A Gastroscopy in Singapore is a procedure that examines the upper Gastrointestinal (GI) tract using a medical instrument called a gastroscope or an endoscope.
- Colonoscopy: This is a procedure done to check for any abnormalities in the lower gastrointestinal tract (colon and rectum) and to treat certain conditions.
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A is a diagnostic and interventional procedure that combines an endoscope and X-ray to examine and treat problems of the bile duct, pancreatic duct and gallbladder.
Your doctor will usually recommend you take this screening test if you display any of the following symptoms:
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn
- Anaemia
- Sudden weight loss
- Vomiting blood
While there are an overwhelming number of benefits in getting this type of screening done, it is not without its side effects. It is important that you consult with your gastroenterologist if it will be suitable for you, and also for you to have a basic understanding of the potential complications.
Here are a few common issues that occur:
- Allergic reactions to the sedatives like low blood pressure or low blood oxygen
- Digestive tract bleeding or infection
- Tear (perforation) in your digestive tract lining
Although there are a few side effects, this procedure is quite minimally invasive and risk-free, proving to be an effective stomach cancer screening method. If you are looking for a gastroenterologist in Mount Elizabeth who can provide these stomach cancer screening services, book a consultation with Alpha Digestive and Liver Centre today.
Alpha Digestive and Liver Centre: Personalised Care and Dedicated Staff
Led by consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Benjamin Yip, Alpha Digestive and Liver Centre provides numerous stomach cancer screening options and personalised treatments to cater to each case.
If you suspect that you have stomach cancer and want to go through a screening process, book a consultation with an experienced gastroenterologist in Singapore.
References:
1. Treatment of stomach cancer. Treatment of Stomach Cancer - NCI. Accessed February 12, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/treatment.
2. Hamashima C. Benefits and harms of endoscopic screening for Gastric cancer. World journal of gastroenterology. July 28, 2016. Accessed February 13, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4968120/. 3. professional CC medical. What is an EGD? Cleveland Clinic. December 27, 2024. Accessed February 13, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/22549-egd-procedure-upper-endoscopy.
3. professional CC medical. What is an EGD? Cleveland Clinic. December 27, 2024. Accessed February 13, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/22549-egd-procedure-upper-endoscopy.
