How Long Can a Person Live with Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a malignant tumor that originates in the mucosal lining of the stomach. In its early stages, it often presents with symptoms such as reduced appetite, bloating, belching, acid reflux, and heartburn. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, including abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or even significant gastrointestinal bleeding.

For early-stage stomach cancer, the primary treatment option is radical surgical resection, which aims to completely remove the tumor. Following surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy are often recommended to improve long-term outcomes. With timely and appropriate treatment, the five-year survival rate for early-stage patients can reach approximately 40%.

However, for patients diagnosed at a more advanced stage where surgical removal is not feasible, the focus shifts to systemic chemotherapy and other palliative treatments. Unfortunately, the prognosis in these cases is significantly poorer, with a median survival time of around one year. Early detection and intervention remain crucial for improving survival rates and quality of life. Regular screenings and awareness of early symptoms can play a vital role in managing this disease effectively.