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Stomach cancer

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Prognosis and survival for stomach cancer



The following are prognostic factors for stomach cancer.


Stage is the most important prognostic factor for stomach cancer. When stomach cancer is found in an earlier stage, there is a more favourable outcome.

The 2 most important stage indicators are the tumour and the lymph nodes. Tumours that have not grown beyond the stomach wall have a better prognosis than tumours that have grown through the wall. The number of lymph nodes that the cancer has spread to affects the prognosis. If the cancer has spread to 3 or more lymph nodes, the prognosis is less favourable than if it hasn’t spread to the lymph nodes or has only spread to 1 or 2 lymph nodes. If the cancer has spread to 7 or more lymph nodes, the prognosis is even less favourable.

Cancer cells in peritoneal washings

If cancer cells are found in the washings of the peritoneumperitoneumThe membrane that lines the walls of the abdomen and pelvis (parietal peritoneum), and covers and supports most of the abdominal organs (visceral peritoneum). taken during surgery, the prognosis is less favourable.

Lymphovascular invasion

Cancer that has not spread into the blood or lymph vessels (lymphovascular invasion) tends to have a better prognosis than cancer that has spread to the blood vessels.

Type of tumour

Intestinal type tumours have a better prognosis than diffuse type tumours. Adenocarcinoma tends to have a better prognosis than adenosquamous carcinoma.

Location of the tumour

Tumours found in the lower part of the stomach have a more favourable prognosis than tumours found in the upper part of the stomach.

Surgical removal

If the stomach cancer can be completely removed (resected) during surgery, the prognosis is more favourable than if it cannot be completely removed.

HER2 status

People who have tumours that test positive for HER2 have a poorer prognosis.

Performance status

People with a high performance statusperformance statusThe measure of how well a person is able to perform ordinary tasks and carry out daily activities. (Karnofsky score of 70 or greater) have a more favourable prognosis than those with a lower status.



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