Gastric cancer | Medotilglobal Healthcare

Introduction

Gastric cancer, commonly referred to as stomach cancer, arises from the inner lining of the stomach, often developing over several years. This cancer can grow silently, with symptoms such as persistent indigestion, nausea, weight loss, or abdominal discomfort appearing only in advanced stages. The most common type is adenocarcinoma, originating in the stomach's glandular cells. Risk factors include Helicobacter pylori infection, chronic gastritis, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and diets high in salty or processed foods. Early detection significantly improves prognosis, with treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Advances in diagnostic tools and multidisciplinary approaches have enhanced outcomes, making timely intervention critical for effective management and improved survival rates.

Cost Comparison

The cost of gastric cancer treatment varies widely anywhere in the world, depending on the hospital, the stage of cancer, the type of treatment, the number of therapy sessions required, the patient's overall health condition, post-operative complications, and care, etc. The average cost of gastric cancer in India is USD $8000.

But be assured as the cost of Gastric cancer in India is just a fraction of developed nations.

Avg Cost of treatment - $8000
Maximum cost of treatment - $12000

Medotil's Pledge: No Hidden Costs, Only Fair Prices!

Treatment costs may vary depending upon several conditions so to get a detailed treatment plan contact us below.

Factors affecting Cost of treatment

The cost of gastric cancer treatment in India can vary significantly due to several key factors. These factors include:

Type of Treatment

Surgery: The type of surgery performed (partial or total gastrectomy) impacts costs. Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgeries tend to be more expensive than traditional open surgeries.
Chemotherapy: The number of chemotherapy cycles required and the type of drugs used affect costs. Some chemotherapy drugs are significantly more expensive than others.
Radiation Therapy: Advanced radiation methods like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) can raise treatment costs compared to standard radiation.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer, more advanced treatment options are often more expensive than traditional chemotherapy.

Stage of Cancer

Early-stage cancer: Generally requires less extensive treatment, leading to lower costs.
Advanced-stage cancer: Requires more intensive and prolonged treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and possibly targeted therapy or immunotherapy, which increases the cost significantly.

Treatment options

Surgery

Gastrectomy: This is the most common surgery for gastric cancer, involving the removal of part or the entire stomach.
- Partial Gastrectomy: Removal of the cancerous part of the stomach while preserving the rest.
- Total Gastrectomy: Complete removal of the stomach, with the esophagus being connected to the small intestine.
- Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that involves small incisions and faster recovery. This is preferred for certain early-stage cancers.
Lymph Node Removal: In addition to removing the cancerous portion of the stomach, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed to check for the spread of cancer.

Chemotherapy

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy given before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy: Given after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Palliative Chemotherapy: For advanced-stage cancer, chemotherapy may help control symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Chemotherapy drugs commonly used include cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), oxaliplatin, and others. India offers affordable generic versions of chemotherapy drugs.

Radiation Therapy

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): High-energy rays are directed at the cancer cells to kill them or shrink the tumor. Often used in combination with chemotherapy for better results.
Brachytherapy: Internal radiation therapy, where a radioactive source is placed inside the body near the tumor.
Radiation therapy may be used as a primary treatment for inoperable cases or after surgery to target residual cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies aim at specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells.
Drugs such as Trastuzumab (Herceptin) are used for HER2-positive gastric cancer, where the cancer cells overexpress the HER2 protein.
Bevacizumab (Avastin), which inhibits the growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor, may also be used in some cases.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the immune system to help the body fight cancer more effectively.
Drugs like Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and Nivolumab (Opdivo) are used for gastric cancer, especially in advanced stages where the cancer has spread to other organs.
These therapies are particularly effective for cancers with specific genetic markers, such as microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or PD-L1 expression.

Endoscopic Treatments

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): Used to remove small, early-stage cancers that are confined to the mucosa (inner lining) of the stomach.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD): A more advanced technique for removing larger early-stage tumors.
These techniques are non-invasive and can be done on an outpatient basis, with minimal recovery time.

Palliative Care

For patients with advanced gastric cancer that is not treatable by surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, palliative care is focused on improving the quality of life.
Palliative treatments may include pain management, nutritional support (e.g., feeding tubes), and the use of stents to help with swallowing difficulties caused by tumors blocking the esophagus or stomach.

Robotic Surgery

Robotic-Assisted Gastrectomy: Some advanced hospitals in India offer robotic surgery, which uses robotic arms controlled by a surgeon. This approach offers greater precision, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery.

Clinical Trials

India has a growing number of clinical trials for gastric cancer, particularly in advanced stages. These trials provide access to the latest therapies and experimental treatments not yet available through standard options.
Clinical trials may involve new chemotherapy agents, immunotherapy, or gene-targeted therapies.

Multidisciplinary Approach

The treatment of gastric cancer often involves a team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and nutritionists, who work together to provide the best care. This holistic approach improves the chances of success and recovery for patients.

How Medotil Global Assists International Patients

Medical Visa Assistance

Guides patients through the process of obtaining a medical visa for India.
Provides necessary documentation support, such as invitation letters from hospitals.

Accommodation Arrangements

Helps secure comfortable and affordable lodging near treatment centers.
Offers a range of options, including guest houses, hotels, or serviced apartments.

Food Services

Assists in arranging dietary preferences, including international cuisines and special diets for medical needs.

Transportation Support

Provides airport pickup and drop-off services.
Offers reliable transportation for hospital visits and local travel.

Hospital and Doctor Selection

Recommends top hospitals and connects patients with experienced specialists in their specific condition.
Ensures access to advanced medical treatments and technology.

Tourism Services

Organizes visits to famous tourist attractions like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Kerala, and other cultural landmarks.
Tailors travel plans based on patient preferences and recovery needs.