Stomach (Gastric) Cancer

What is stomach cancer?

The Lee Health Cancer Institute is dedicated to providing exceptional care for stomach cancer patients. Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, is when cancer cells grow out of control in the stomach. Stomach cancer cases involve abnormal cell growth.

If left untreated the cancerous cells form a tumor and can develop deeper into the stomach lining. The tumor may spread to nearby organs like the pancreas or liver. Typically this cancer affects men aged 60 to 80 years old.

What are the symptoms of stomach cancer?

In the early stages of stomach cancer, the symptoms can be difficult to pinpoint if it's cancerous. Typically more advanced symptoms show once cancer has developed along the stomach lining. Stomach cancer symptoms include:

Stomach pain
Abdominal pain
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Heartburn and indigestion
Feeling full after eating a small amount
Black and tarry stool or blood in stool

Not all of these symptoms are directly associated with stomach cancer. There are numerous causes for various signs and symptoms, so it's crucial to keep in mind not to overreact. Instead, speak with a gastroenterologist, they can help guide you to treatment options.

Cancer Treatment Centers in Fort Myers and Estero

The Lee Health Cancer Institute extends its support to patients across Florida, providing a wide range of comprehensive treatment options. Our team of highly skilled medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists is dedicated to delivering exceptional care.

Lee Health Regional Cancer Center

8931 Colonial Center Dr Fort Myers, FL 33905

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Phone number (239) 343-9500 View Details
Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Cancer Clinic - Bonita Health Center

3501 Health Center Blvd Estero, FL 34135

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Phone number 239-343-9500 View Details

How is stomach cancer diagnosed?

Once the oncology team determines the symptoms in your stomach are cancerous your doctor may use multiple tests and procedures to detect and diagnose stomach cancer. This may include:

CT Scan
Endoscopic Ultrasound
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Minimally Invasive Diagnostics

The interventional endoscopy team works closely with our system's cancer care providers. Our team helps diagnose patients by collecting tissue samples and closely staging GI tract malignancies. These procedures help doctors craft better treatment plans and manage early GI tract cancer cases.

Interventional Endoscopy Team

Lee Health's interventional endoscopy team has brought the latest therapeutic endoscopic procedures, devices, and technology to the Fort Myers area.

How is Stomach Cancer Treated

Treatment options for stomach cancer depend on the location and stage of the cancer. Surgery is one of the main options to remove cancer and surrounding tissue. Our Lee Health Surgical Oncology team offers gastrectomy, a life-saving procedure for individuals at high risk of or diagnosed with stomach cancer.

Gastrectomy: Stomach Removal Surgery

Learn about gastrectomy at Lee Health, including preventive and treatment options for stomach cancer. Discover expert care and advanced surgical techniques for better outcomes.

Surgical Oncologists Near You

Our surgical oncology team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. Learn more about scheduling an appointment with our team below.

Mark Bloomston MD

Lee Physician Group
- Cancer Institute
- Surgical Oncology
View Details
Accepting New Patients
Catalina Mosquera MD

Lee Physician Group
- Cancer Institute
- Surgical Oncology
View Details
Accepting New Patients
Bassan J. Allan MD

Lee Physician Group
- Cancer Institute
- Surgical Oncology
View Details
Accepting New Patients

Surgical Oncology for Southwest Florida

We’re proud to be the only surgical oncology team from Tampa to Miami offering advanced cancer treatment through surgery. Our specialists remove cancer at its source—providing expert, life-saving care right here in Southwest Florida.

Surgical Oncology

Lee Health Cancer Institute's surgical oncology surgeons provide advanced, personalized treatment for cancer, supporting you every step of the way to recovery.

Stomach Cancer Support Group

When facing a stomach cancer diagnosis, it's crucial to have access to a support network and group. We are committed to being your trusted partner throughout your cancer journey, offering a wide range of services tailored to meet your unique needs.

Cancer Support Groups

Cancer support groups are gatherings that provide a secure environment for those impacted by the disease to talk about their feelings and experiences with other cancer patients.

Chemotherapy and Infusion Services

Visit our outpatient infusion centers for cancer treatment, chemo, blood transfusions and more.

Chemotherapy and Infusion Services

Lee Health Cancer Institute offers outpatient and inpatient chemotherapy and infusion services in Fort Myers, FL. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment please call 239-343-9500
Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)

Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a cutting-edge cancer treatment for advanced abdominal cancers. Learn about the procedure, recovery, and outcomes to make informed decisions about your care.