Gastric Cancer
For gastric cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies are coordinated as a personalized plan across our accredited network.
What is gastric (stomach) cancer?
Gastric cancer forms from the uncontrolled growth of cells lining the stomach and usually develops slowly. The most common type is adenocarcinoma.
Because it often causes no early symptoms, it is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. Recognizing warning signs early is therefore important for those at risk.
What are the types of gastric cancer?
Main types:
Causes and risk factors
Main risk factors:
- Helicobacter pylori infection
- A diet high in salty, smoked, and processed foods
- Smoking and alcohol use
- Chronic gastritis and stomach polyps
- Family history of gastric cancer
- Older age
What are the symptoms of gastric cancer?
Symptoms usually become apparent as the disease advances:
- Persistent indigestion and heartburn
- Bloating and early fullness after meals
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- Nausea, vomiting (may be bloody)
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Black stools and weakness (anemia)
What are the stages of gastric cancer?
Staging is based on tumor depth in the stomach wall and spread:
In early gastric cancer, treatment may even be possible with endoscopic methods.
How is gastric cancer diagnosed?
Endoscopy is the foundation of diagnosis:
- Gastroscopy (endoscopy) to inspect the stomach and take a biopsy
- Pathological and molecular testing (HER2, PD-L1)
- Endoscopic ultrasound (tumor depth)
- Tumor markers
Imaging methods in gastric cancer
For staging and assessing spread:
- Abdominal and chest CT
- PET-CT (when spread is suspected)
- Endoscopic ultrasound
- Diagnostic laparoscopy when needed
Gastric cancer treatment methods
Treatment is combined by stage:
Every patient and every tumor is different
No single treatment is right for everyone; the best plan depends on your exact diagnosis, stage, and tumor characteristics. At National Cancer Alliance, we arrange a free second opinion from board-certified oncologists to review your case.
Prognosis and survival rates
Prognosis in gastric cancer depends largely on the stage at diagnosis. In early disease confined to the stomach, 5-year survival can reach about 70%, dropping to roughly 33% with regional spread and lower with distant metastasis.
Early diagnosis is decisive. Pre-operative chemotherapy and modern targeted therapies improve outcomes in suitable patients.
How to reduce gastric cancer risk
Measures that help lower risk:
- Detecting and treating H. pylori infection
- Reducing salty, smoked, and processed foods
- A diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruit
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
- Regular endoscopic follow-up in high-risk individuals
Frequently asked questions
Is constant indigestion a sign of cancer?
Usually not, but complaints that persist and come with weight loss must be evaluated by endoscopy.
How will I eat if my stomach is removed?
After gastrectomy, eating can continue with small, frequent meals. A dietitian helps you adapt.
Does treating H. pylori prevent cancer?
Treating the infection lowers gastric cancer risk, so treatment is recommended when detected.
Should I get a second opinion?
The extent of surgery and treatment sequence matter; an independent oncologist review helps define the best plan.
Ready for a plan built around you?
Start with a free, no-obligation second opinion from a board-certified oncologist. Have your case reviewed and every option explained clearly.
Get a FREE Second OpinionThis page provides general information about gastric (stomach) cancer; it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatments are provided by independent, accredited hospitals and licensed physicians. Your treatment decision should be made by a qualified physician based on your individual situation.