Four Things to Know About Stomach Cancer Treatment
Stomach cancer treatment varies from person to person based on factors such as the cancer’s location and stage as well as the patient’s overall health. That’s why Moffitt Cancer Center takes an individualized approach to treatment, tailoring each treatment plan to address the challenges of the patient’s unique cancer. This approach help us achieve the best possible outcome and quality of life for each patient.
While your physician is the best person to provide you with information on the exact treatment you will receive, the general information below may be a good place to start learning about stomach cancer treatment.
1. You may want to seek a second opinion.
Don’t be afraid of offending your physician by seeking a second or third opinion about your diagnosis, stage and treatment. You physician will likely support you, and a second opinion may give you more information about your malignancy and treatment options, which will in turn help you feel more confident in your health care decisions.
2. You may receive more than one type of treatment.
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and molecularly targeted therapy are all common treatments for stomach cancer. A combination of treatments may be used to give you the most effective treatment plan for your situation.
3. You may experience side effects.
Cancer treatments aim to destroy cancer cells, so the treatments administered must be very powerful in order to be effective. Because of this, treatments like chemotherapy can damage healthy tissues, causing a number of side effects. Of course, the positive, cancer-fighting effects of treatment typically outweigh any side effects. Your treatment team can help you manage any discomfort you experience.
4. You may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial.
Clinical trials give patients an opportunity to try promising new therapies before those options are made widely available. Ask your physician if there are any clinical trials for stomach cancer treatment that you may be eligible to participate in.
No matter what kind of treatment you require for stomach cancer, the best thing you can do is ensure you are receiving treatment at a reputable, high-volume cancer center staffed with experienced physicians – like Moffitt Cancer Center. To request a consultation to learn about our individualized treatment plans, call 1-888-663-3488 or fill out a new patient registration form online. You do not need a referral to meet with us.