Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the stomach. Also, known as Gastric cancer, it affects the elderly more than the adult. According to the American Cancer Society, about 6 of every 10 people diagnosed with stomach cancer each year are 65 or older. Also, the lifetime risk of developing stomach cancer is higher in men (about 1 in 101) than in women (about 1 in 155).

A health expert, speaking to a leading media house, emphasized five common symptoms of stomach cancer that should not be ignored:

1. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying or experiencing an unexplained drop in appetite, which may signal cancer progression.

2. Pain in the upper part of the abdomen: Persistent or occasional pain in the stomach area, often after eating, can become more severe as the condition progresses.

3. Frequent vomiting after meals: Nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting, may occur especially after meals and is linked to cancer blocking or irritating the stomach.

4. Vomiting blood, which may appear coffee-colored: This can indicate bleeding in the stomach, often caused by ulcers or tumors, and requires immediate medical attention.

5. Black, tarry stools: This occurs when blood from the stomach is digested and passed through the intestines, signaling potential internal bleeding

There are also other concerning signs that should not be overlooked such as jaundice, unexplained weight loss, early onset of diabetes, dark stools, and loss of appetite. Health experts strongly advise seeking immediate medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms. If you or a loved one experience these signs, it's crucial to visit a physician for a thorough evaluation to rule out serious underlying health conditions.

How Does Stomach Cancer Spread?

Oncologist Dr Pankaj Kumar Pande, Director–Surgical Oncology, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi explained that this form of cancer spreads through three main pathways: Direct spread, lymphatic spread, and bloodstream.

1. Direct Spread: In its early stages, stomach cancer can invade nearby tissues and grow into the deeper layers of the stomach or spread to surrounding organs such as the oesophagus, liver, pancreas, or intestines.

2. Lymphatic Spread: Cancer cells can travel through the lymphatic system. The most common areas affected are the regional lymph nodes near the stomach, particularly those around the liver and diaphragm.

3. Bloodstream: "Cancer cells can enter the bloodstream and travel to distant parts of the body," which is a common route for stomach cancer to metastasize to distant organs.

He further explained that cancerous cells spread from the original tumour to other parts of the body through a process called Metastasis. The most common sites for the spread are the liver, lymph nodes, peritoneum, lungs, bones, and ovaries.

Nipah virus outbreak in India has led to nearly 100 people being quarantined. The first two cases identified in the eastern state of West Bengal in two nurses working in the private hospital in Barasat, near the state's capital Kolkata, has led to more testing. New cases, including a doctor, a nurse and a health staff member was confirmed and reported by the news wire agency PTI.

People with latest infections were admitted to the infectious disease hospital in Beleghata, whereas the earliest two people are still admitted in the Intensive Care Unit at a private hospital. Reports noted that the condition of the male nurse is improving, however, the woman nurse remains to be in a critical condition.

India is facing Nipah virus cases and contagion every year now. Experts are now cautioning people against the zoonotic nature of the viral infection. Rajeev Jayavedan, the former president of Indian Medical Association, Cochin, told The Independent, that infection among humans are rare and caused by the accidental spillover due to human-bat interface, which means consumption of fruits that may have been infected by bats. “This is more likely in rural and forest-adjacent areas where agricultural practices increase contact between humans and fruit bats searching for food,” he said.

Health and Me previously reported on how doctors are now advising people to be cautious while eating food. Speaking to TOI, Dr Aishwarya R, Consultant, Infectious Diseases at Aster RV Hospital advised people against eating certain food, including fruits fallen from trees, unpasteurized date palm sap and any other fruits without washing. The doctor explained that this infection can spread with infected animal who could bite fruits and spread the virus through their saliva.

Read: Nipah Virus India: 100 People Quarantined, Doctor Issues Food Warnings

Nipah Virus Tested In West Bengal Bats

A survey conducted on bats in West Bengal found no active Nipah virus infection. Though there were antibodies detected in one specimen, which indicated prior exposure. This was confirmed by a senior state forest department official on Tuesday. The survey was conducted amid the identification of two confirmed Nipah virus cases.

What Is Nipah Virus?

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic illness that is transmitted to people from animals, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly from person to person.

In infected people, it causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic (subclinical) infection to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis. The virus can also cause severe disease in animals such as pigs, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers.

Although Nipah virus has caused only a few known outbreaks in Asia, it infects a wide range of animals and causes severe disease and death in people.

During the first recognized outbreak in Malaysia, which also affected Singapore, most human infections resulted from direct contact with sick pigs or their contaminated tissues. Transmission is thought to have occurred via unprotected exposure to secretions from the pigs, or unprotected contact with the tissue of a sick animal.

In subsequent outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, consumption of fruits or fruit products (such as raw date palm juice) contaminated with urine or saliva from infected fruit bats was the most likely source of infection.

Human-to-human transmission of Nipah virus has also been reported among family and care givers of infected patients.

Read: Doctor Debunks Five Myths Around Nipah Virus

Nipah Virus Symptoms

• Fever
• Headache
• Breathing difficulties
• Cough and sore throat
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Muscle pain and severe weakness

Pharmacies across Britain are reporting serious shortages of a widely used medication, raising concerns that patients could face a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Pharmacists have described the situation as “madness,” warning that current NHS prescribing rules are stopping them from switching patients to suitable blood-thinning alternatives when aspirin is unavailable.

While aspirin is commonly taken as a pain reliever, it is also prescribed as a blood thinner. Around one-third of women and nearly 45 percent of men over the age of 65 rely on it as part of their daily medication routine.

Aspirin Shortage Hits UK Pharmacies

A new survey conducted by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), involving 540 community pharmacies across the UK, found that 86 percent are currently unable to supply aspirin. The shortage appears to be most severe for the low-dose 75mg tablets, although pharmacists report that all strengths are affected. Several pharmacies have also stopped selling aspirin over the counter due to limited stock.

As per The Independent, Olivier Picard, chair of the NPA, said pharmacists are deeply concerned about their inability to order sufficient supplies and the impact this could have on patients who depend on the drug. Low-dose aspirin, particularly the 75mg dose, is commonly prescribed for its antiplatelet effect, which helps prevent the formation of blood clots and lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Who Is Prescribed Aspirin?

Doctors often prescribe aspirin to people who have previously suffered a heart attack or stroke, experienced a transient ischaemic attack, or have conditions such as angina or peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It may also be recommended after certain types of surgery to reduce the risk of clotting.

Aspirin: Why Is UK Facing A Shortage?

The NPA is urging the government to reform prescribing regulations that currently prevent pharmacists from offering safe alternatives when the prescribed medicine is unavailable. Mr Picard said pharmacists have long argued for the ability to make appropriate substitutions in these situations.

He added that forcing patients to return to their GP for a revised prescription when an alternative drug is already available is not only frustrating but potentially dangerous. Delays or interruptions in treatment could lead patients to miss vital medication, increasing risks to their health.

Aspirin Added To Export Ban List

In response to the ongoing issue, the Government has added aspirin to its export ban list in an attempt to safeguard supplies for patients in the UK.

The NPA also said pharmacists have been forced to tightly ration the remaining stock, prioritising patients with the most urgent heart conditions or those requiring emergency prescriptions.

According to the Independent Pharmacies Association, international manufacturing delays and wider supply chain disruptions are key reasons behind the shortage. The organisation also pointed to low prices negotiated by the NHS, which can make the UK a lower priority for pharmaceutical manufacturers when stock is limited.

Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, said it is deeply concerning to see shortages affecting essential medicines such as aspirin and blood pressure treatments. She explained that while manufacturing delays play a role, pharmacies are also struggling because they cannot order the quantities they need.

She added that low reimbursement rates mean manufacturers often prioritise other countries, leaving the UK at the back of the queue. In the meantime, patients affected by shortages are advised to speak to their local pharmacist, who can offer guidance on suitable alternatives where available.

Aspirin Rising Prices Add Pressure On Pharmacies

The shortage has also led to sharp price increases in pharmacies that have managed to secure supplies. The NPA said the cost of a packet of 75mg dispersible aspirin tablets has risen from 18p earlier last year to £3.90 this month.

However, the NHS reimbursement rate remains at £2.18 per packet, meaning pharmacies lose an average of £1.72 every time the medication is dispensed. Mr Picard said this is yet another sign of a pharmacy contract system that urgently needs reform.

Actor Shreyas Talpade recalls that during a shoot for Single Salma in Lucknow, he felt unusually drained after an intense action sequence. In an interview with the Times of India, he revealed, along with the fatigue, there was an odd sensation in his throat, something he had never experienced before. He sat down briefly, brushed it aside, and convinced himself that he was fine.

Yet, something did not sit right with him. Concerned, Shreyas decided to consult a doctor. He underwent an ECG and a 2D echo, and both reports came back normal. While he did not completely ignore what his body was telling him, he also did not probe further. He assumed the medical reports meant there was nothing to worry about.

Months later, in December 2023, Shreyas Talpade suffered a major cardiac episode, an experience that would alter his life in ways he never imagined.

Shreyas Talpade Had No Classic Risk Factors, Yet He Suffered a Heart Attack

Shreyas was only in his mid-40s when the incident occurred, but it changed him both physically and emotionally.

Physically, he now follows lifelong precautions to ensure such an episode does not recur. Regular medication, scheduled follow-ups, routine checkups, and strict adherence to medical advice have become a permanent part of his life.

Emotionally, the impact was even more intense. Shreyas points out that he had none of the four common risk factors associated with heart attacks. He did not smoke or drink. He was neither diabetic nor hypertensive. And yet, the cardiac episode happened.

Shreyas Talpade’s Five Mantras For Heart Health

• Listen to your body: If something feels unusual, do not delay or dismiss it.
• Get tested early: The sooner you detect a problem, the faster you can respond.
• Stay consistent: Fixed timings for meals, medicines, and sleep are essential. A healthy life depends on routine, not randomness.
• Rest adequately: Seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is non-negotiable. It plays a vital role in healing and recovery.
• Monitor your heart regularly: ECGs, 2D echo tests, stress tests, and calcium score screenings can save lives. Prevention is always better than cure.
• Manage stress: Stress is unavoidable, but learning to manage it is crucial. Focus on what you can control and let go of the rest.

Shreyas believes that while life brings uncertainty, many aspects of health remain within our control. After an experience like his, priorities naturally shift. Family becomes the top priority, and staying healthy becomes essential to spend meaningful time with loved ones. That, he says, means sleeping well, exercising four to five times a week, and eating nutritious meals on time.

Heart Attack: Why Timely Meals Matter More Than Extreme Diets

He stresses that while nutritious food is important, eating at regular times is even more critical. Maintaining fixed meal schedules helps the body function better. Having dinner early allows the digestive system enough time to rest. Even the healthiest food, he notes, loses its benefit if meal timings are irregular.

His earlier discipline with clean eating and regular workouts played a significant role in his recovery. Shreyas also believes that post-pandemic health changes and the Covid vaccine may have triggered complications, but his active lifestyle helped him bounce back faster.

According to him, proper nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep, and balance strengthen the body. Without these habits, the outcome could have been very different. He firmly believes the body responds to the care it receives.

Learning To Handle Stress And Let Go

Shreyas acknowledges that stress is an unavoidable part of life. However, he believes learning how to manage it is essential.

Over time, he has realised that not everything lies within one’s control. Letting go of what cannot be changed is just as important as addressing what can be managed. Wisdom often comes with age, but when someone shares their experiences, he feels it is important to listen.

His message is clear: do not wait for a personal crisis to learn lessons the hard way.