Is Stomach Cancer Curable?

The possibility of curing gastric cancer largely depends on the stage at which the disease is diagnosed. Early detection significantly increases the chances of a full recovery. When gastric cancer is identified at an early stage, such as T1, where the tumor is limited to the mucosal layer, a localized resection may be sufficient for the patient to achieve complete remission.

As the cancer progresses, treatment becomes more complex. If the tumor has invaded deeper layers such as the submucosa or muscle layer, it is classified as T2. At this stage, lymph node metastasis is common, and more extensive surgery is required. This may involve partial or even total removal of the stomach. Comprehensive lymph node dissection is crucial to eliminate both the tumor and any potentially affected lymph nodes and fatty tissues. After surgery, the treatment plan is further tailored based on the pathological results and the extent of lymph node involvement.

In more advanced cases, such as when the tumor reaches stage T3 or lymph node metastasis is present, adjuvant chemotherapy is often recommended to improve outcomes. This additional therapy helps eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduces the risk of recurrence. For patients with advanced or progressed gastric cancer, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 50%, highlighting the importance of timely and appropriate treatment interventions.