Former England forward and manager Kevin Keegan has died after battling stage 4 stomach cancer. He was 75.Keegan died surrounded by his wife, Jean, and their daughters."It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75," a statement from Keegan's family read."The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments."Kevin, a double Ballon d'Or winner, was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin's incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."Diagnosed With Stage 4 Cancer Earlier This YearEarlier this year, his family announced that the former England captain had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and was preparing to begin treatment. In June, Keegan revealed that the disease had spread to other parts of his body.Known affectionately as "King Kev," Keegan spoke openly about his diagnosis during a public appearance in Newcastle, reflecting on his health with his trademark honesty and humor. Fans listened in silence as he shared his journey through the illness.His death has prompted tributes from football fans around the world.Also read: Cancer Kills Over 26,000 Daily; Cases to Hit 35 Million by 2050, Says WHO ReportA Legendary Playing And Managerial CareerBorn in Armthorpe, Doncaster, on February 14, 1951, Keegan began his senior career with Scunthorpe United before joining Liverpool in 1972. He later played for Hamburger SV, Southampton and Newcastle United, ending his playing career with Blacktown City in Australia.During a club career spanning 592 appearances, Keegan scored 204 goals. He also earned 63 caps for England, scoring 21 goals.As a manager, Keegan had two spells at Newcastle United and also managed Fulham, England and Manchester City. He guided England to UEFA Euro 2000 through a play-off victory over Scotland before resigning later that year after a disappointing start to the tournament.What Is Stomach Cancer?Read More: Don't Ignore These Cancer Symptoms: Oncologist Shares The Early Warning SignsStomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, develops in the lining of the stomach. It is more common in older adults than in younger people. According to the American Cancer Society, about six in 10 people diagnosed with stomach cancer each year are aged 65 or older. The lifetime risk is also higher in men (about 1 in 101) than in women (about 1 in 155).Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO), estimate that infection with the common stomach bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes 76% of stomach cancer cases globally. The infection often produces no obvious symptoms beyond common digestive complaints, allowing it to go undetected for years.Early Signs You Should Not IgnoreDoctors advise seeking medical attention if symptoms such as persistent indigestion, nausea, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, or upper abdominal discomfort last for more than three weeks.Around 18 people in the UK and 83 people in the US are diagnosed with stomach cancer every day. Because the disease is often detected at an advanced stage, treatment can be challenging. In the UK, only about 17% of patients survive beyond 10 years after diagnosis.Why Early Detection MattersH. pylori infection can be detected through simple tests and treated with antibiotics. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of stomach cancer. Health experts stress that recognizing persistent digestive symptoms and seeking timely medical care can save lives.