Gastric Cancer Surgery and Five-Year Survival Rates

Gastric cancer is one of the more common types of digestive system tumors. Research has shown that if detected early, the five-year survival rate after surgery can be as high as approximately 90%. However, if the cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage, the five-year survival rate drops significantly to around 30%. In cases where gastric cancer has spread to distant organs, such as liver metastasis, the survival rate can be as low as 10% following surgical treatment.

Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in improving patient outcomes. Unfortunately, the early symptoms of gastric cancer—such as acid reflux, belching, and upper abdominal discomfort—are often mistaken for less serious conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcers. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

To address this challenge, it is highly recommended that individuals at higher risk undergo regular endoscopic screenings. People over the age of 45 or those with a family history of digestive tract cancers are considered to be in a high-risk category. Gastroscopy can help detect abnormalities in the stomach at an early stage, and if necessary, a biopsy can be performed during the procedure to determine the nature of the lesion.

Regular check-ups and early intervention can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Awareness and proactive screening are key steps in the fight against gastric cancer.