How Serious Is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer severity depends on the stage and type of tumor. The stomach can develop various types of tumors, each with different levels of severity. Among these, gastric adenocarcinoma is the most common, and its seriousness is largely determined by how early or advanced the stage is. Early-stage tumors are generally less severe and more treatable.

Early detection can lead to successful treatment without invasive surgery. In many cases, early-stage stomach cancer is discovered during routine health checkups. If detected early, patients may not require traditional surgery. Instead, endoscopic resection can effectively remove the tumor, especially if it's classified as a precancerous lesion or carcinoma in situ. This approach often results in a high cure rate, with approximately 90% to 95% of patients achieving full recovery.

Advanced stages require comprehensive treatment approaches. When the cancer has progressed to a more advanced stage and spread to nearby lymph nodes, it is classified as locally advanced. While this situation is more serious, it is not beyond treatment. With a combination of chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and surgical intervention, many patients still have a chance at remission or even a cure under the guidance of a medical professional.

Late-stage gastric cancer poses the greatest challenge. In the latest stages, the cancer often spreads throughout the body, making surgical removal impossible. At this point, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and prolonging life through systemic therapies. Patients in this stage typically face a shorter life expectancy, and the condition is considered the most critical form of gastric disease.