Carcinoma stomach in Eastern India-An audit from a tertiary health care center.

BACKGROUND: In spite of declining incidence and fatality over the past decade, stomach cancer still remains a global health issue due to its aggressiveness and heterogeneity. There is wide variation in the epidemiology of stomach cancer, not only worldwide but also among different regions of India. However, there is very limited data available for the Indian population.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at establishing the incidence and role of risk factors, analyzing the symptoms, stage of disease, and mode of various surgical treatments of patients in the eastern region of India, and comparing them with the results of other studies in India and regions outside India.

METHODS AND MATERIAL: An audit of the database of carcinoma stomach patients attending the radiotherapy and surgery outpatient department (OPD) between January 2020 and June 2021 was performed. Demographic, clinical, and treatment-related data were collected and analyzed with respect to other regions of India and the worldwide pattern of carcinoma stomach.

RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 58 years with male dominance (70%). The antrum was the most common (60%) primary site, and stage III was the most common (47.6%) stage at presentation. Around 73.4% of patients underwent radical surgery. Most patients (50%) had an eventless post-operative period, and 76% received peri-operative chemotherapy. Also, 20% of patients received adjuvant chemoradiation.

CONCLUSION: Our analysis suggests that there are certain differences (like dietary habits), as well as similarities (like socio-demographic factors), among the risk factors of carcinoma in this part of the country than other parts. Further studies into the risk factors and different clinical presentations are required for prevention and early detection.