Stomach cancer also called Gastric cancer, is among the predominant causes of cancer mortalities globally. For patients and their families, perhaps one of the most frequent questions following diagnosis is: "What are the chances of survival?"
Knowledge of the stomach cancer survival rate provides patients with a better idea of what to expect, although it should be recalled that each case is different. Today in this blog, we are going to discuss survival rates by stage, variables that impact stomach cancer prognosis, and how those things are changing with advancing treatments.
Understanding the 5-Year Survival Rate for Gastric Cancer
When physicians refer to gastric cancer survival rate they typically discuss 5-year relative survival rate.
That just means:
- They see how many of those with stomach cancer survive at least 5 years from the time they were diagnosed.
- They then compare them to people the same age and gender without cancer.
It's critical to understand these are numbers on average. They cannot predict with certainty what will occur in one individual. Lots of people live far longer than 5 years, particularly if the cancer is diagnosed early and treated effectively.
Stomach Cancer Survival Rate by Stage
The survival rates from stomach cancer depend a lot on the stage at diagnosis. Physicians group stages as localized, regional and distant spread.
- Stage I (Localized)
The cancer is limited to the lining of the stomach. The gastric cancer survival rate is best in this stage. About 75% of patients survive 5 years or more with early surgery and treatment.
- Stage II and III (Regional spread)
The cancer has not spread to other nearby organs or lymph nodes but to tissues adjacent to them. Stomach cancer has a 5 year survival rate of approximately 35%, Treatment may include surgery combined with radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
- Stage IV (Distant spread)
When cancer spreads to other organs like the liver or lungs, stomach cancer prognosis becomes more difficult. Survival rates in this case are 7%. Nevertheless targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials can benefit some patients.
Stomach Cancer Survival Rate by Stage (5-Year Relative Survival)
Survival Rate Based on Age
What Influencing Gastric Cancer Prognosis?
Other factors can also affect the prognosis of stomach cancer.
- Patients who are younger and in better health tend to do better.
- Gastric cancer is classified by its size and location, Some are more aggressive.
- Access to advanced treatment such as surgery and drugs, increases gastric cancer survival rates.
- Quitting smoking, eating healthy food and exercising are all ways to aid in recovery.
Is the Survival Rate Improving?
Yes every year the survival rate increases, the impact of new treatments like targeted therapy, minimally invasive surgery and immunotherapy is huge.
Improved screenings and increased awareness in India and Asia are helping doctors diagnose stomach cancer earlier. Already the survival rate for stomach cancer has increased, the future is brighter for patients.
Key Points to Remember
- Stomach cancer survival rate mainly depends on the stage at diagnosis.
- Early detection makes the stomach cancer prognosis much better.
- The gastric cancer survival rate is improving as new treatments become available.
- Survival numbers are only averages, each person’s journey is unique.
Conclusion:
Early detection and treatment of Gastrointestinal cancer are crucial to the survival rate. The survival rates are average and do not reflect what will happen to an individual. Data are not always accurate, many people live healthier and longer lives than they appear, especially with the advent of new treatments and lifestyle changes.
If you know someone diagnosed with stomach cancer, it is important to be positive and take the right care. You can visit Dr. Ajay Yadav for professional guidance and care. He is the best gastroenterologist in Lucknow with over 22 years of experience in using his techniques to help stomach cancer sufferers achieve better results.
FAQs on Stomach Cancer Survival
1. At what age is stomach cancer usually found?
Most people are diagnosed after 50 and older. Older age can affect the stomach cancer prognosis but many still respond well to treatment.
2. Is stomach cancer survival rate different for men and women?
Stomach cancer is most common in men. Women are somewhat protected by the hormone estrogen which may lower their risk before menopause. Still both men and women can get it and the stomach cancer survival rate depends more on the stage and treatment than on gender.
3. Can diet help improve the gastric cancer survival rate?
Yes consume more fruits, vegetables and lean proteins to aid healing after treatment. Although diet can't alter the official statistics, it can still improve the health as well as the survival rate of gastric cancer patients.
4. Is stomach cancer fully curable?
If caught in the initial stage, stomach cancer can be treated with surgery and medication and can be cured. In such a case, the stomach cancer prognosis is very good.
5. Are survival rates the same across countries?
Yes, in Japan and South Korea where screening is prevalent, the survival rate of gastric cancer is much greater because cancer is detected early. In other parts of the world, delayed detection decreases survival rates.
