Cases of stomach cancer are rising rapidly, with a 140% increase expected by 2025. This type of cancer often goes unnoticed because its symptoms, such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing, are common. Doctors warn that ignoring persistent heartburn can have fatal consequences.

People often delay seeking medical attention until symptoms worsen. If heartburn persists despite medication, an endoscopy—a procedure using a camera to examine the stomach and gastrointestinal tract—can help detect stomach cancer early for possible surgical removal.

Unfortunately, early detection is rare, and the survival rate for esophageal cancer is only 20%. Stomach cancer is four times more common in men than in women.

Professor Michael Sprang advises addressing heartburn with dietary changes, such as avoiding spicy food, coffee, and alcohol. If symptoms persist despite treatment, consult your doctor for an endoscopy.