Stomach cancer

If you’re affected by stomach cancer, you may have many questions about how it is diagnosed, treatment options, side effects and how to stay well. You can find trustworthy information about all aspects of your experience below.

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What is stomach cancer?

Stomach cancer develops when cells in the lining of the stomach grow and divide in an abnormal way.

Symptoms

Learn about the common symptoms of stomach cancer and when to see your doctor.

Getting diagnosed

Find out about the tests for stomach cancer, how stomach cancer is diagnosed and staged, and who will provide your care.

Treating stomach cancer

Surgery to remove the tumour is the main treatment for stomach cancer that has not spread. If the cancer has spread, treatment may also include chemotherapy, targeted therapy or radiation therapy.

Managing side effects

Stomach cancer and its treatment can cause side effects. Some of these side effects are permanent and may change what you can eat, and how you digest foods and absorb essential nutrients.

Life after treatment

Learn about follow-up care, what happens if the cancer returns, and how to look after your physical and mental health.

Questions for your doctorAsking your doctor questions will help you make informed decisions. Here's a list of questions you may want to ask.

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Diagnosis

What type of cancer do I have?
Has the cancer spread? If so, where has it spread? How fast is it growing?
Are the latest tests and treatments for this cancer available in this hospital?
Will a multidisciplinary team be involved in my care?
Are there clinical guidelines for this type of cancer?

Treatment

What treatment do you recommend? What is the aim of the treatment?
Are there other treatment choices for me? If not, why not?
If I don’t have the treatment, what should I expect?
How long do I have to make a decision?
I’m thinking of getting a second opinion. Can you recommend anyone?
How long will treatment take? Will I have to stay in hospital?
Are there any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare or my private health cover? Can the cost be reduced if I can’t afford it?
How will I know if the treatment is working?
Are there any clinical trials or research studies I could join?

Side effects

What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
Will I have a lot of pain? What will be done about this?
Can I work, drive and do my normal activities while having treatment?
Will the treatment affect my sex life and fertility?
How will the treatment affect the way I eat and digest food?
Should I change my diet or physical activity during or after treatment?
Are there any complementary therapies that might help me?

After treatment

How often will I need check-ups after treatment? Who should I see?
If the cancer returns, how will I know? What treatments could I have?

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