Comprehensive Stomach Cancer Treatment at Advanced Oncology Clinics
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, begins in the cells lining the stomach. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making early detection and specialized treatment essential. At Advanced Oncology Clinics, we provide comprehensive care for stomach cancer, offering a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s unique condition. Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to delivering personalized care aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes.
Recognizing Symptoms & Signs of Stomach Cancer
The symptoms of stomach cancer can be subtle in the early stages and may often be mistaken for common digestive issues. Common symptoms include:
Persistent Indigestion or Heartburn:
Continuous discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, which may be mistaken for indigestion.
Bloating After Eating:
A feeling of fullness or bloating even after consuming a small meal.
Nausea and Vomiting:
Unexplained nausea and vomiting, sometimes with blood in the vomit, indicating potential bleeding in the stomach.
Unexplained Weight Loss:
Significant weight loss without trying, often accompanied by a loss of appetite.
Difficulty Swallowing:
A sensation that food is getting stuck in the throat or chest, particularly as the tumor grows larger.
Fatigue:
A general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy, often due to anemia caused by internal bleeding.
Blood in Stool:
Black or tarry stools, indicating bleeding in the stomach.
Diagnosis & Staging of Stomach Cancer
Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for developing an effective treatment plan for stomach cancer. At Advanced Oncology Clinics, our diagnostic approach includes:
Endoscopy:
A procedure in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to examine the stomach. Tissue samples may be taken for biopsy during this procedure.
Barium Swallow:
A special X-ray procedure in which the patient drinks a barium solution that coats the stomach, making it easier to detect abnormalities.
CT Scan:
A detailed imaging test to visualize the stomach and assess whether the cancer has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
PET Scan:
A type of imaging test that helps detect cancerous cells by highlighting areas of increased metabolic activity.
Biopsy:
A tissue sample obtained during endoscopy or surgery to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the type of stomach cancer.
Types & Sub-Types of Stomach Cancer
Stomach cancer can be classified into several types, each requiring different approaches to treatment:
Adenocarcinoma:
The most common type of stomach cancer, which begins in the mucus-producing cells that line the stomach. Adenocarcinomas account for the majority of stomach cancer cases.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs):
Rare tumors that begin in the connective tissue cells of the stomach. GISTs can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach.
Lymphomas:
A type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system but can also affect the stomach. Lymphomas in the stomach are rare and may require a different treatment approach.
Carcinoid Tumors:
Rare tumors that start in the hormone-producing cells of the stomach. They tend to grow slowly and may require specialized treatment.
Sarcomas:
Comprehensive Treatment Approaches for Stomach Cancer
Treatment for stomach cancer varies based on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. At Advanced Oncology Clinics, we offer a range of treatment options:
Surgery:
Surgical removal of the tumor is often recommended for localized stomach cancer. Procedures include subtotal gastrectomy (removal of part of the stomach) and total gastrectomy (removal of the entire stomach).
Radiation Therapy:
High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells, particularly in cases of advanced or metastatic stomach cancer. It may be used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy:
Drugs that specifically target the genetic mutations within cancer cells, helping to stop their growth. This is particularly effective in certain subtypes of stomach cancer.
Immunotherapy:
A treatment that helps boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer, particularly in cases of advanced stomach cancer or after surgery to prevent recurrence.
Coping with Treatment & Managing Side Effects
Nutritional Support:
Customized dietary plans to ensure patients receive adequate nutrition, which is vital for recovery and overall health. This is particularly important for stomach cancer patients who may have difficulty eating.
Pain Management:
A combination of medications and alternative therapies to manage pain effectively and enhance comfort during treatment.
Physical Therapy:
Rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility after surgery or treatment, focusing on improving function and quality of life
Psychological Support:
Post-Treatment Care & Long-Term Monitoring
After stomach cancer treatment, ongoing monitoring is essential to detect any signs of recurrence and manage long-term side effects. Our approach includes:
Regular Check-Ups:
Imaging Tests:
Scheduled scans to ensure the cancer has not returned or metastasized to other areas.
Endoscopy:
Regular endoscopies to check for any recurrence of cancer or the development of new growths.
Long-Term Support:
Continuous access to our medical team for any ongoing care needs, including management of chronic side effects and support for overall health.
Surveillance & Monitoring for Recurrence
Vigilant monitoring for recurrence is a key aspect of post-treatment care for esophageal cancer. Our surveillance program includes:
Scheduled Check-Ups:
Regular follow-up visits to check for any signs of cancer recurrence or metastasis.
Patient Education:
Providing patients with the knowledge to recognize symptoms that may indicate a recurrence of stomach cancer.
Access to Care:
Ongoing access to our medical team for any concerns or additional treatments that may be needed in the event of recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Esophageal Cancer:
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, begins in the cells lining the stomach. Learn more about stomach cancer.
Symptoms include persistent indigestion, bloating, nausea, unexplained weight loss, and difficulty swallowing. Explore stomach cancer symptoms.
Diagnosis involves endoscopy, barium swallow, CT scan, PET scan, and biopsy. Learn about stomach cancer diagnosis.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Explore stomach cancer treatment options.
Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, but stomach cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Understand stomach cancer prognosis.
The most common types of stomach cancer are adenocarcinoma, GISTs, lymphomas, carcinoid tumors, and sarcomas. Learn about stomach cancer types.
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled regularly, depending on the type and stage of cancer and the treatment received. Explore follow-up care.
We offer comprehensive support services, including nutritional support, pain management, physical therapy, and psychological counseling. Discover support options.
A gastrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the stomach affected by cancer. Learn about gastrectomy.
You can schedule an appointment online or call us directly. Our team will assist you in setting up your consultation.
