A gastroenterologist may recommend early gastroscopy (an examination of the upper digestive tract using a flexible tube with a camera) for certain individuals who are at a higher risk of developing gastric cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders. Early detection can help identify issues before they become more serious or lead to cancer. Below are four groups of people who may need early gastroscopy to prevent cancer:

1. People with a Family History of Gastric Cancer

• Reason: A family history of gastric cancer increases the risk of developing the disease, especially if close relatives (parents, siblings) have had it. Genetic factors and shared environmental exposures can contribute to the higher risk.

• Recommendation: Individuals with a family history of gastric cancer are often advised to undergo regular gastroscopies for early detection of abnormalities like precancerous lesions or chronic inflammation that could develop into cancer.

2. Individuals with Chronic Helicobacter pylori Infection

• Reason: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterium that infects the stomach lining and is linked to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and an increased risk of gastric cancer. Persistent infection with H. pylori can lead to inflammation that damages the stomach lining over time, which may result in cancer.

• Recommendation: People who have had long-term or untreated H. pylori infections should consider undergoing gastroscopy to check for early signs of damage to the stomach lining or other complications that may predispose them to gastric cancer.

3. People with Gastric Polyps

• Reason: Gastric polyps are growths on the lining of the stomach, and some types can develop into cancer over time. These polyps are more likely to turn cancerous if they are large or if there are many of them.

• Recommendation: People diagnosed with gastric polyps, particularly larger ones or those that are classified as "adenomatous" (a type of polyp that can become cancerous), should have regular gastroscopies to monitor the polyps and remove any that are potentially precancerous.

4. Individuals with Persistent Symptoms of Dyspepsia or Indigestion

• Reason: Chronic indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal discomfort (dyspepsia) can be signs of an underlying gastrointestinal issue, including precancerous conditions like gastric atrophy or intestinal metaplasia. If these symptoms are persistent and unexplained, it may indicate an increased risk of gastric cancer.

• Recommendation: Individuals with persistent or severe dyspepsia, especially those over the age of 50, should undergo gastroscopy to rule out more serious conditions such as gastric cancer or other abnormalities like ulcers or strictures that could contribute to the symptoms.

Conclusion

Early detection through gastroscopy plays a crucial role in identifying gastric cancer and other digestive tract conditions at an early stage, when treatment is more effective. For individuals in these high-risk groups, regular screenings and monitoring can help prevent the development of gastric cancer or other serious complications. It's important to consult a gastroenterologist for personalized recommendations based on individual risk factors.