How Long Can You Live After Gastric Tumor Removal?

The survival time after gastric tumor removal largely depends on the clinical stage of the cancer at the time of surgery. For patients diagnosed with stage I gastric cancer, where the tumor is confined to the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, or subserosa layers, approximately 83% can expect to survive for at least five years following surgical resection.

Stage II gastric cancer indicates that the tumor has penetrated the serosal layer and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. In this case, about 60% of patients are likely to survive for five years after surgery, provided appropriate treatment is followed.

For stage III gastric cancer, the tumor may have invaded adjacent structures or extended into the abdominal cavity. Following surgical removal, only about 20% of patients may survive for five years. This stage typically requires a more aggressive treatment approach, including adjuvant therapies.

In stage IV gastric cancer, the survival rate drops significantly, with less than 2% of patients living beyond five years post-surgery. At this stage, the cancer has usually metastasized to distant organs, and the focus of treatment may shift from curative to palliative care.

Early detection and timely surgical intervention are crucial for improving long-term survival rates. Regular screenings and understanding the symptoms of gastric cancer can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. Patients are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers for personalized treatment plans and follow-up strategies.