To estimate the prevalence of histologically confirmed early gastric cancer (EGC) in an Indian multicentre cohort undergoing standardised high-quality upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. EGC is defined as gastric adenocarcinoma confined to the mucosa or submucosa (T1), irrespective of lymph node status, based on histopathology.
Adults aged ≥40 years undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for dyspepsia or other clinical indications (nonalarming and alarming symptoms both).
Ability to provide written informed consent.
Known gastric malignancy.
Prior gastric surgery (excluding H. pylori eradication).
Contraindications to endoscopy or biopsy.
Known hereditary gastric cancer syndromes.