Stomach Cancer Care in Portland and Vancouver

Stomach (gastric) cancer occurs when cancerous cells form in the stomach's lining. It is part of a group of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers that affect the gastrointestinal tract and other organs within the digestive system. 

If you or a loved one was diagnosed with stomach cancer, the GI specialists at Compass Oncology are here to guide you through the next steps. 

stomach cancer care in portland vancouver

 

 

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Types of Stomach Cancer

Almost all (90-95%) stomach cancers are adenocarcinomas of the stomach, which develop from the cells in the innermost lining of the stomach known as the mucosa. Other types of stomach cancers include lymphoma, which starts in the immune system tissue located in the stomach wall; gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), which begin in specialized cells within the wall of the gastrointestinal tract; and carcinoid tumors, which arise from the hormone-producing cells in the stomach.

Next Steps After a stomach Cancer Diagnosis

Next Steps After a Stomach Cancer Diagnosis

If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with stomach cancer, the next step is to meet with an oncologist who specializes in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Your oncologist will address your questions and concerns so you can feel more confident moving forward. Use this guide to prepare for your first oncology appointment.  

Your Stomach Cancer Care Team at Compass Oncology

Compass Oncology provides comprehensive stomach cancer care in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. Our dedicated team offers the latest treatments for all stages of stomach cancer, expert palliative care, access to clinical trials, and a wide array of support services. With personalized plans, a full range of support services, and some of the Pacific Northwest's most experienced specialists in gastric cancer, patients can feel confident about their care at Compass Oncology. 

a team approach to GI cancer treatment at compass oncology

Staging Stomach Cancer

If a biopsy determines that stomach cancer is present, your doctor will need to know the extent or stage of the disease. The stage is based on the tumor's size, whether nearby lymph nodes are affected, and if it has spread to distant locations. The staging process is crucial in helping the GI specialist develop the most effective treatment plan to meet your unique needs. 

Staging Stomach Cancer

If a biopsy determines that stomach cancer is present, your doctor will need to know the extent or stage of the disease. The stage is based on the tumor's size, whether nearby lymph nodes are affected, and if it has spread to distant locations. The staging process is crucial in helping the GI specialist develop the most effective treatment plan to meet your unique needs. 

Treatment Options for Stomach Cancer

Treatment options can vary depending on the location and stage of the esophageal cancer. You and your oncologist will work together to decide on the most suitable approach. You may undergo one or more therapies, which could include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or laser therapy.

Detecting and Diagnosing Stomach Cancer

There is currently no standard screening for stomach cancer, so it's important to see your doctor if you experience any unusual gastrointestinal symptoms. Stomach cancer that goes undetected and undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage can be more challenging to treat. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you think you might have certain personal factors that increase your risk. Find out more about the tests used to diagnose stomach cancer. 

Signs & Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer can be hard to detect before it has progressed into later stages. The signs and symptoms vary based on the severity of the stage of the cancer.

Reducing Risk of Stomach Cancer

While the cause of stomach cancer is uncertain, various factors can increase the risk of developing the disease.