What are the treatment methods for gastric cancer?
Disease description:
My grandfather was recently diagnosed with stomach cancer during a hospital checkup, but it's not too severe at this stage. The doctors mentioned that with active cooperation in treatment, the symptoms can still be alleviated. I would like to ask about the common treatment approaches for stomach cancer.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Below are some commonly used treatments for gastric cancer:
1. Surgical treatment: This is the main method for treating gastric cancer, suitable for patients with early and some mid-stage gastric cancer. The goal of surgery is to completely remove the tumor and surrounding tissues that may be affected, including partial or total gastrectomy, as well as lymph node dissection. Adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be needed after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy kills cancer cells or inhibits their growth using drugs. It can be used as an adjuvant treatment before or after surgery to shrink the primary tumor, reduce its stage, increase the likelihood of complete resection, and eliminate occult micrometastases after surgery to prevent recurrence. For patients with advanced gastric cancer, chemotherapy is one of the primary treatment options.
3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is primarily used as an adjuvant treatment after gastric cancer surgery, as part of comprehensive treatment for locally advanced unresectable gastric cancer, and for the treatment of advanced gastric cancer.
Patients should maintain a positive attitude during treatment and cooperate with their doctors to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
