Family at Risk for Stomach Cancer Has Stomach Removal Surgery

Michael Slabaugh and ten of his cousins have something in common- they don't have their stomachs. 11 cousins from the family had their stomachs removed when they found out they were at high risk for a rare type of stomach cancer. Genetic testing allowed them to discover they were carriers of a mutated gene that was responsible for the stomach cancer that had plagued their family for decades.

All who had the surgery are doing well, experiencing a range of side effects of not having a stomach from losing excessive amounts of weight to intolerance to certain foods. Having the preventive surgery has been a lifesaver for some members of the family as tumors were found growing in their stomachs.

What You Need to Know About Stomach Cancer

• Stomach Cancer Symptoms
  
• Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer
  
• How to Prevent Stomach Cancer

_{Photo: X-ray showing gastric tumor, courtesy if A.D.A.M. Health Encyclopedia}

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Poll: Would You Have Your Stomach Removed if You Had a High Risk of Stomach Cancer?

Poll:Would you have your stomach removed if you knew you were at high risk for stomach cancer?

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