Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a serious condition that affects the stomach lining and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. As one of the more prevalent cancers in Asia, especially among older adults, Gastric cancer treatment in Singapore poses a significant health challenge. Singapore, with its advanced healthcare system, multidisciplinary medical teams, and state-of-the-art facilities, has become a regional hub for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of gastric cancer.
Understanding Gastric Cancer
Gastric cancer develops when malignant (cancerous) cells form in the lining of the stomach. The most common type is adenocarcinoma, which originates in the glandular tissue of the stomach lining. Other less common types include lymphoma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and carcinoid tumors.
Common symptoms of gastric cancer may include:
Persistent indigestion
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal discomfort
Nausea or vomiting
Difficulty swallowing
Blood in the stool
Due to its non-specific symptoms, gastric cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which makes early detection and access to quality healthcare critical.
Why Choose Singapore for Gastric Cancer Treatment?
Singapore is renowned for its robust healthcare infrastructure and commitment to excellence in oncology. The nation consistently ranks high in global healthcare indices and offers several advantages:
World-Class Hospitals: Institutions like the National University Cancer Institute (NCIS), Singapore General Hospital (SGH), and Parkway Cancer Centre offer comprehensive cancer care with advanced medical technology.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Patients are managed by a team of specialists, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and dietitians, ensuring holistic care.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Singaporean hospitals use cutting-edge diagnostic tools such as endoscopy, PET-CT scans, endoscopic ultrasound, and molecular profiling to accurately stage and characterize gastric cancer.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Treatment is customized based on the stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and specific molecular markers.
Strong Emphasis on Research and Clinical Trials: Singapore actively participates in global cancer research and clinical trials, providing patients access to novel therapies and targeted treatments.
Gastric Cancer Treatment Options in Singapore
The treatment of gastric cancer in Singapore typically involves one or a combination of the following modalities:
1. Surgery
Surgery is the primary treatment for localized gastric cancer. The goal is to remove the tumor and, if necessary, part or all of the stomach (gastrectomy). Types of surgery include:
Subtotal (partial) gastrectomy: Removes part of the stomach.
Total gastrectomy: Removes the entire stomach.
Lymphadenectomy: Removes nearby lymph nodes to prevent spread.
Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries are increasingly used, resulting in shorter recovery times and fewer complications.
2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used:
Before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor
After surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells
In advanced stages to prolong life and manage symptoms
Singaporean hospitals offer the latest chemotherapy regimens, often in combination with other treatments.
3. Targeted Therapy
Targeted drugs, such as trastuzumab for HER2-positive gastric cancer, block specific proteins that help cancer cells grow. Singaporean oncologists use biomarker testing to determine if targeted therapies are suitable for a patient.
4. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is an emerging option for certain types of advanced gastric cancer. Drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. Singapore is at the forefront of integrating immunotherapy into cancer care through both approved therapies and clinical trials.
5. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy (chemoradiation) or as palliative care in advanced stages. Singaporean hospitals use advanced radiation technologies such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) to deliver precise doses and minimize damage to surrounding tissue.
Supportive and Palliative Care
In addition to active treatment, Singaporean hospitals emphasize supportive care to maintain quality of life. Services include:
Nutritional counseling
Pain and symptom management
Psychological support and counseling
Palliative care services for those with advanced disease
Medical Tourism and Accessibility
Singapore is a preferred destination for medical tourists, particularly from neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Hospitals often have dedicated international patient liaison services to assist with:
Visa arrangements
Appointment scheduling
Translation services
Travel and accommodation coordination
Conclusion
Gastric cancer treatment in Singapore combines medical excellence, advanced technology, and compassionate care. With its comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach and access to the latest innovations, Singapore stands out as a leading destination for gastric cancer care in Asia. Early detection, timely intervention, and a well-coordinated treatment plan are crucial in improving outcomes and quality of life for patients battling this disease.
