Stomach Cancer Treatment
For people with stomach cancer, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatments. Factors that affect treatment for people with stomach cancer include such things as the size and location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and the patient's general health. Stomach cancer treatment may result in side effects such as infections, anemia, dental problems, and "dumping syndrome." Some people with stomach cancer may want to consider taking part in clinical trials studying the effectiveness of new treatments for the disease.
Stomach Cancer Treatment: An Overview
There are several different types of
stomach cancer treatment. Stomach cancer treatment options vary based on:
- The size and location of the tumor
- The stage of the disease (see Stomach Cancer Stage)
- The patient's general health.
For purposes of this article, the term "stomach cancer" is used to refer to gastric adenocarcinoma (cancer of the glandular tissue in the stomach). Gastric adenocarcinoma is the most common type of stomach cancer. Other types of stomach cancer include lymphomas (cancers involving the lymphatic system) and sarcomas (cancers of the connective tissue, such as muscle, fat, or blood vessels).
(Click Lymphoma for information about a less common type of cancer that may develop in the stomach.)
In general, stomach cancer treatment options can include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy.
Doctors should describe the stomach cancer treatment choices and the expected results of each treatment to their patients. Patients should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that meets their medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate stomach cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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