Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also referred to as gastric cancer, originates in the lining of the stomach. The most prevalent type is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the mucus-producing cells of the stomach. Other, less common types include lymphomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and neuroendocrine tumors.

Risk factors for stomach cancer encompass chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori, smoking, diets high in salty and smoked foods, low consumption of fruits and vegetables, family history, and certain genetic conditions. Symptoms are often vague in the early stages and may comprise indigestion, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Because early symptoms are non-specific, many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Common Therapies for Stomach Cancer

Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage, location, and the patient’s overall health:

1. Surgery

   • Subtotal (partial) gastrectomy: Removal of part of the stomach

   • Total gastrectomy: Removal of the entire stomach

   • Surgery may be curative for early-stage cancers and is often combined with other treatments
     

2. Chemotherapy

   • Used before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or as a primary treatment for advanced cancer

   • Common drugs include:

     • 5-FU (fluorouracil)

     • Capecitabine

     • Oxaliplatin

     • Cisplatin

     • Docetaxel or Paclitaxel

       
       

3. Targeted Therapy

   For tumors with specific molecular markers:

   • HER2-positive cancers: Trastuzumab (Herceptin, used with chemo)

   • VEGF inhibitors: Ramucirumab (Cymranza, blocks blood vessel growth, used in advanced cases)

   • Claudin 18.2-positive tumors: Zolbetuximab (in development or approved in some regions)

   
   

4. Immunotherapy

   Effective in selected patients, especially those with high PD-L1 expression or MSI-high tumors:

   • Checkpoint inhibitors: Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab

   • Often used for advanced or metastatic disease, sometimes in combination with chemotherapy

   
   

5. Radiation Therapy

   • Used before or after surgery, or for symptom control in advanced cancer

   • Often combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation)

   
   

   Stomach cancer treatment is increasingly guided by molecular testing and multidisciplinary care. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, but in many cases, the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage, making systemic therapy a critical part of management.