What is the first treatment for stomach cancer?

Stomach cancer treatment starts with staging and testing the tumour. These results show whether an operation may remove the disease and whether markers such as HER2 could make targeted treatment relevant. Chemotherapy before surgery can shrink or control the tumour and help the team plan the next step. If an operation is suitable, stomach removal surgery may follow, with the extent guided by the tumour's position. Immunotherapy can be added or considered for selected disease according to tumour features and the wider treatment plan.

Bring your biopsy, scan and blood-test information to the oncology appointment. Discuss nutrition early because stomach symptoms and treatment can affect eating, weight and hydration. Ask whether the plan includes chemotherapy before surgery, how HER2 testing changes options, and which symptoms should be reported between visits. Keep a written list of medicines and any swallowing, vomiting or pain changes.

Get urgent medical help for vomiting that prevents fluids, black or bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, fainting, confusion or signs of dehydration. During treatment, promptly report fever, repeated vomiting, new bleeding or inability to eat and drink, because these may need same-day advice.

What does staging show about surgery? Is chemotherapy planned before an operation? Has the tumour been tested for HER2 and other treatment markers? How can I maintain nutrition during the first treatment?