How is stomach cancer treated?

The team uses endoscopy and biopsy results, scans and laboratory tests to understand how far the cancer has spread and which features its cells carry. If an operation is suitable, stomach removal surgery may remove part or all of the stomach and nearby lymph nodes. Chemotherapy may be used before surgery, after surgery or when surgery is not the main approach.

Testing can show whether HER2-targeted therapy is relevant. Immunotherapy may be considered for selected tumours, based on laboratory findings and the wider treatment plan. Diet and symptom support are part of care because stomach surgery or treatment can change eating and digestion.

Ask how the cancer’s stage and cell tests affect your options. Tell the team about swallowing or eating difficulty, persistent indigestion, medicines and weight changes. A dietitian can help plan small meals, fluids and nutritional support around treatment. Keep a record of nausea, pain, bowel changes and your ability to eat so concerns can be addressed early.

Seek urgent medical help for vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, fainting, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. During treatment, promptly report fever, repeated vomiting, new jaundice, worsening weakness or signs of dehydration. Your oncology team can tell you which number to use outside clinic hours.

Is surgery possible for my tumour? Have my biopsy cells been tested for HER2 or other treatment markers? What eating changes might follow surgery? Which symptoms require an urgent call?