In the United States stomach cancers are rare. But in Japan stomach cancers are among the most common tumors. The reasons for these differences are unknown, but may be related to dietary factors. Vague abdominal pain, heartburn, and abdominal fullness are the common symptoms. Unfortunately, by the time of diagnosis, most patients have advanced disease and the 5-year survival rates are in the range of 5-15%.

Treatment of Stomach Cancers may involve surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Common medications include 5-FU, doxorubicin, mitomycin, cisplatin, methotrexate, and etoposide. Occasionally preoperative chemotherapy may be given to shrink the tumor before resection.

Stomach Cancers are not currently treated with transplantation at Hackensack University Medical Center. However, the physicians at the Northern New Jersey Cancer Center are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Active research studies for newly diagnosed stomach cancer include a randomized trial of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation following gastric resection. Active trials for patients with advanced disease include a study of 5-FU plus interferon plus hydrea versus doxorubicin plus docetaxel. For more information on these studies call (201) 996-5800.