What are the best treatments for Stomach cancer?

Treatments for Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious condition that requires prompt and effective treatment. The choice of treatment depends on various factors such as the stage of cancer, overall health of the patient, and the extent of the disease. Here are some of the best treatments available for stomach cancer:

Surgery

Surgery is often the primary treatment for stomach cancer, especially in the early stages. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any affected surrounding tissues. Depending on the extent of the cancer, different surgical procedures may be performed, such as:

• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR): This minimally invasive procedure is used for early-stage cancers confined to the inner lining of the stomach.


• Subtotal gastrectomy: This surgery involves removing a portion of the stomach affected by cancer.


• Total gastrectomy: In this procedure, the entire stomach is removed, and the esophagus is connected directly to the small intestine.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or slow down their growth. It can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumor, after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells, or as the primary treatment for advanced stomach cancer. Chemotherapy may be given orally or intravenously, and it is often used in combination with other treatments.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy cancer cells. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor, after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells, or as palliative treatment to relieve symptoms in advanced cases. Radiation therapy is often combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) for better effectiveness.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a type of treatment that specifically targets cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. It works by interfering with specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer. Targeted therapy drugs are often used in combination with chemotherapy and may be recommended for certain types of stomach cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a relatively new treatment approach that harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer. It uses drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. While still being researched for stomach cancer, immunotherapy has shown promising results in other types of cancer and may be considered as part of a treatment plan.

Palliative Care

In advanced cases where a cure is not possible, palliative care plays a crucial role. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients by managing symptoms, providing pain relief, and offering emotional and psychological support. It can be provided alongside other treatments or as the main approach for patients who are not eligible for aggressive therapies.

It is important to note that the best treatment plan for stomach cancer is determined on an individual basis. Consulting with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is crucial to develop a personalized treatment approach.