Stomach Cancer Outcomes

If you’ve already looked it up, you’re probably not feeling very hopeful. But it’s important to remember that statistics don’t tell the whole story. First, the stomach cancer survival rate is improving all the time thanks to new treatment options like targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Second, stomach cancer outcomes are highly individualized, so averages tend to be misleading.

Stomach cancer outcomes differ among patients, because every patient’s cancer is different. Because you’re different. At Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Georgia’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we are a leader in gastrointestinal cancer treatment and research. We develop and deliver the latest, most effective stomach cancer treatments with the fewest side effects. As a result, our stomach cancer outcomes — our survival rates, rates of recurrence and management of long-term side effects — are better than most other cancer centers in the U.S.

Winship is the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Georgia. The designation, which belongs only to a few dozen cancer centers in the country, requires Winship to meet rigorous standards proving our facilities are state-of-the-art, that we offer cutting-edge treatments, deliver breakthrough research and conduct lifesaving clinical trials.

Because NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers like Winship represent the most innovative cancer centers in the nation, it’s no surprise they also have the best survival rates. Research shows survival rates are up to 25% higher when starting treatment at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Researchers attribute these higher survival rates to surgical expertise, guideline compliance, access to clinical trials and team approaches to treatment planning, all of which are paramount at Winship.

When looking at stomach cancer outcomes, it’s also important to consider long-term treatment and rates of recurrence. Most stomach cancer patients require persistent treatment with chemotherapy.

For patients whose stomach cancer is treated with surgery, we have quality measures in place to confirm success, including testing the surrounding tissue to be sure there’s no remaining cancer. And once you’ve completed treatment at Winship, we will continue to monitor your condition and follow you for at least five years to ensure that you remain cancer-free and assist you with the management of any long-term side effects of treatment.

At Winship, you will receive the most powerful and precise treatments available with the least adverse side effects. We’ll take steps to reduce common side effects of stomach cancer, such as fatigue and nausea. And we will work with you on managing depression and other psychological and emotional aspects of stomach cancer for as long as you need us.

When it comes to stomach cancer outcomes, it’s also important to address nutrition since the stomach plays such a key role in digestion. Your gastric cancer team will include a registered dietitian, who will help you manage the nutrition-related side effects of your cancer and keep you from becoming vitamin and nutrient deficient.