Stomach Cancer Treatment

Stomach Cancer Treatment in India

Overview

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a growth of cancerous cells within the lining of the stomach. It tends to develop slowly over many years and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to subtle or absent symptoms in early stages.

India offers a comprehensive range of stomach cancer treatments at highly affordable rates compared to Western countries, with access to experienced oncologists and accredited medical facilities.

Types of Stomach Cancer

Adenocarcinoma (most common)
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST)
Carcinoid Tumor
Lymphoma

Causes and Risk Factors

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
Smoking and alcohol use
Family history of gastric cancer
High salt and smoked food intake
Obesity and poor diet
Chronic stomach inflammation

Symptoms

Persistent stomach pain
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating after eating
Loss of appetite
Blood in vomit or stool
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue

Diagnosis

Endoscopy
Biopsy
CT Scan and MRI
PET Scan
Barium Swallow X-ray
Laparoscopy
Blood tests (anemia, liver function)

Stages of Stomach Cancer

Stage 0: Abnormal cells in stomach lining
Stage I: Cancer in inner stomach layers
Stage II: Spread to deeper layers and nearby lymph nodes
Stage III: Invasion of all layers and regional spread
Stage IV: Distant metastasis to liver, lungs, or bones

Treatment Options

1. Surgery

Subtotal (Partial) Gastrectomy: Partial stomach removal
Total Gastrectomy: Entire stomach removed
Lymph Node Dissection: Nearby lymph nodes removed

2. Chemotherapy

Drugs to shrink tumor pre-surgery (neoadjuvant) or destroy remaining cells post-surgery (adjuvant)

3. Radiation Therapy

High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells, often combined with chemo

4. Targeted Therapy

Drugs that attack specific cancer cell proteins or genes

5. Immunotherapy

Enhances body’s immune system to fight cancer

Cost Factors in India

Type and stage of cancer
Treatment method (surgery, radiation, chemo)
Hospital location and standard
Diagnostic test frequency
Doctor’s expertise
Length of hospital stay and aftercare

India offers savings of 50–70% on overall costs compared to developed nations.

Why Choose India?

Internationally accredited hospitals (NABH, JCI)
Experienced oncologists and GI surgeons
Modern diagnostics and surgical tools
Personalized, patient-focused care
Robust support for international patients

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most common type of stomach cancer?
A: Adenocarcinoma, which begins in the mucus-producing cells of the stomach lining.

Q: Can stomach cancer be cured?
A: Early-stage cancer can often be cured. Advanced stages require palliative care to manage symptoms and prolong life.

Q: How long is recovery after stomach surgery?
A: Full recovery may take 4–6 weeks. Nutritional guidance is crucial post-surgery.

Q: Is chemotherapy always needed?
A: Not always. It depends on the stage and whether cancer has spread.

Q: How to prevent stomach cancer?
A:

Eat a healthy, low-salt diet
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Treat H. pylori infections
Get regular screenings if at risk