Fight Stomach Cancer With Top-Rated Treatment!

Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when abnormal cells grow in the stomach. This can affect the digestive system and overall health. There are various types of treatments available for stomach cancer. Before we look at some examples, let's find out who is in charge of treating stomach cancer.

Who Treats Stomach Cancer?

Several healthcare professionals are involved in stomach cancer treatment, including:

• Oncologist

An oncologist is a cancer specialist. They are responsible for identifying the type of stomach cancer that an individual has and providing appropriate treatment.

Oncologists usually refer patients to other specialists such as surgeons or radiologists depending on the type and stage of cancer.

• Surgeon

A surgeon is a medical professional who specialises in surgery. They are in charge of removing stomach cancer tumours as well as other affected tissues. Surgeons can perform traditional surgery or minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy.

• Radiologist

A radiologist is a doctor who specialises in using images such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans. They are responsible for diagnosing stomach cancer and monitoring disease progression. Radiologists also treat patients with radiation therapy.

6 Stomach Cancer Treatments You Should Know

Cancer treatment depends on the type of cancer, stage and overall health of the patient. Here are some treatments available in Malaysia:

1. Surgery

​The primary treatment for stomach cancer is surgery. It entails the surgical removal of tumours and other affected tissues. The surgical method used is determined by the stage of the disease.

Surgery can range from simple procedures like cutting the skin to remove affected tissue to more complex procedures like organ transplantation.

More advanced surgical techniques, such as laparoscopy or robotics, can also be used. These techniques enable doctors to perform more precise and effective surgery while causing less damage to surrounding tissue.

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy destroys cancer cells by using X-rays or gamma rays. Radiation therapy is typically used following surgery to destroy cancer cells that cannot be treated surgically.

This therapy has several advantages over traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy or surgery. One benefit of radiation therapy is that it can be done as an outpatient procedure. It also causes less pain than surgery.

Radiation therapy also has a positive effect on patients with cancer that cannot be detected through surgery.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment used in modern medicine. This treatment employs chemicals that are designed to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Chemotherapy is typically used as an adjuvant or primary treatment to aid in the destruction of stomach cancer cells.

Chemotherapy can be administered via injection or by taking medication orally. Before undergoing chemotherapy, the doctor will evaluate the patient's health and recommend the best treatment options.

• For patients undergoing chemotherapy as an additional treatment, treatment usually begins after surgery to remove stomach tumours.

• For patients undergoing chemotherapy as a primary treatment, treatment usually begins immediately after a stomach cancer diagnosis.

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4. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a common type of treatment used to treat stomach cancer. Targeted therapy is usually used in patients with stomach cancer associated with specific genetic mutations.

This therapy involves the use of medications that aim to reduce the growth of cancer cells in a more specific way than chemotherapy. It interferes with specific proteins or molecules that are important for the growth of cancer cells.

The doctor will conduct tests to identify specific genetic mutations associated with stomach cancer before beginning targeted drug therapy.

5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that aims to boost the immune system's ability to combat cancer cells. Drugs are used in this treatment to stimulate the patient's immune system to attack cancer cells. It works by introducing antibodies that inhibit cancer cell growth.

Immunotherapy is typically used in the treatment of stomach cancer that has spread to other organs. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other treatments such as chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy is a cutting-edge medical treatment method. It can also boost the patient's immune system, allowing them to fight cancer cells more effectively.

6. Palliative Care

Palliative care is a treatment that aims to provide comfort to patients who experience pain or other symptoms related to stomach cancer. This treatment method involves comprehensive care.

This treatment is typically administered to patients who are experiencing pain or symptoms that cannot be controlled with other treatment options. This type of care assists patients in reducing pain, fatigue and improving their quality of life.

Palliative care encompasses not only physical but also psychological and social treatment methods. Patients and families are given emotional and psychological support to cope with the difficulties and challenges associated with stomach cancer.

This care also includes financial support and other resources to assist patients and families during difficult times.

Metastatic Stomach Cancer

Metastatic stomach cancer treatment is a major challenge in medicine. Metastatic stomach cancer refers to stomach cancer that has spread to other parts of the body such as the liver, lungs or bones. Most patients with metastatic stomach cancer are in the final stages of cancer, and treatment must be carried out as soon as possible.

In Malaysia, metastatic stomach cancer treatment is provided by medical experts and hospitals located throughout the country. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care are all used to treat metastatic stomach cancer. These cancer patients require attentive care and appropriate therapy to improve their chances of recovery.

What to Expect During Treatment?

​Patients should expect some changes in their lifestyle while undergoing stomach cancer treatment. Stomach cancer treatment typically takes a long time, and patients may need to adjust their daily routines and consider potential side effects such as fatigue and loss of appetite. 

• Fatigue

Chemotherapy or radiotherapy for stomach cancer can cause fatigue and a loss of energy, causing patients to require more rest and less physical activity.

However, patients are encouraged to engage in light physical activity such as walking or light exercise because it can help increase body strength and improve mood.

• Loss of Appetite

Patients undergoing stomach cancer treatment may also experience changes in their appetite and digestion.

It is important to ensure that patients receive adequate nutrients to maintain their health. Doctors and nutritionists can help patients adjust their diets to meet their nutritional needs.

Besides that, stomach cancer treatment may necessitate frequent tests and examinations. Blood tests, x-rays and scans are examples of such tests. Patients may also need to see oncologists and other medical specialists on a regular basis.

Social and Emotional Support

Family, friends and support groups can help patients during stomach cancer treatment, such as reducing loneliness and improving morale.

A patient’s emotions and psychology can also be affected by stomach cancer treatment. As a result, social and emotional support are critical in assisting patients in coping with challenges and motivating them to continue fighting cancer.

Fight Cancer Today!

Cancer is a dangerous disease that can be fatal if not treated early. Early detection and treatment can increase your chances of recovery. Don't be afraid and face the disease with courage. You can defeat it with a strong heart!

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