Top Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is often diagnosed late due to subtle early symptoms, leading to complex treatment challenges. This creates significant anxiety and confusion for patients and their families. The array of treatment options can be overwhelming, making it difficult for patients to choose the best course of action. This uncertainty increases stress and can negatively impact treatment decisions. This blog simplifies the top treatment options for stomach cancer, providing clear and concise information. Empowered with this knowledge, patients can confidently navigate their treatment journey.

1. Surgery

Surgery is often the primary treatment for stomach cancer, especially when the cancer is detected at an early stage. There are several types of surgeries that might be considered:

• Subtotal Gastrectomy: This procedure involves removing part of the stomach that contains cancer, along with nearby lymph nodes and other tissues.
• Total Gastrectomy: This involves removing the entire stomach. The oesophagus is then connected directly to the small intestine, allowing for digestion.
• Endoscopic Resection: In very early-stage cancers, the tumour can sometimes be removed using an endoscope without the need for a large incision.

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumour, making it easier to remove, or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, chemotherapy is combined with radiation therapy (chemoradiation) to enhance its effectiveness. Common chemotherapy drugs for stomach cancer include:

• 5-FU (fluorouracil)
• Capecitabine (Xeloda)
• Cisplatin
• Oxaliplatin
• Docetaxel (Taxotere)
• Paclitaxel (Taxol)

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy, either before surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy can also help relieve symptoms such as pain and bleeding in advanced stages of stomach cancer.

4. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target certain aspects of cancer cells, such as proteins or genes that contribute to cancer growth. These drugs tend to have fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Common targeted therapies for stomach cancer include:

• Trastuzumab (Herceptin): Used for cancers that are HER2-positive.
• Ramucirumab (Cyramza): Used to block the blood supply to the tumour.
• Imatinib (Gleevec): Used for gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs), a type of stomach cancer.

5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. This form of treatment is gaining traction as a viable option for stomach cancer, particularly in advanced stages. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and Nivolumab (Opdivo) are two immunotherapy drugs that have shown promise in treating certain types of stomach cancer.

6. Clinical Trials

Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available. Participating in a clinical trial can provide an opportunity to receive the latest therapies and contribute to the advancement of medical research. Patients should discuss with their oncologists whether any clinical trials are suitable for their specific condition.

Choosing the right treatment for stomach cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. It's essential to work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, and nutritionists, to develop a personalized treatment plan. Early detection and a comprehensive approach to treatment can significantly improve the chances of successful outcomes.

If you or a loved one is facing stomach cancer, stay informed about the latest treatment options and maintain open communication with your healthcare team. Together, you can make the best decisions for your health and well-being.