Answer:

Metastatic stomach cancer occurs when cancer cells spread beyond the stomach to other organs such as the liver, lungs, peritoneum, or distant lymph nodes. At this stage, the prognosis is generally less favorable than in earlier stages. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate for metastatic stomach cancer is approximately 7%.

In addition to the stage of the cancer, the prognosis also depends on the location of the metastasis and the patient's overall health. Liver metastasis presents more challenges due to its impact on metabolic function. Patients with good overall health and no serious underlying conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or kidney failure tend to respond better to treatment and have a longer survival time than those in poorer health.

While metastatic stomach cancer cannot be completely cured, modern treatments can control symptoms and extend survival time. You should take your husband to a hospital with an oncology department for testing. Depending on his condition, doctors may recommend chemotherapy to shrink the tumor and alleviate symptoms, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.

Targeted therapy is recommended when the tumor tests positive for specific mutations like Her-2. Some targeted therapies, when combined with chemotherapy, have shown improved average survival times in Her-2 positive patients. Immunotherapy may also prolong survival in some suitable patients.

In some cases, palliative surgery might be recommended to alleviate symptoms like bleeding or blockage, thereby improving quality of life.

Surgical team performing stomach cancer surgery. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The patient's response to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy also determines the effectiveness of disease control and survival time. Some patients who respond well to treatment can live for several more years.

Patients with metastatic stomach cancer should maintain a positive attitude and trust in their doctor's treatment plan. They should eat a nutritious diet to prevent physical decline and engage in regular light exercise to maintain their health. It's also important for patients to confide in loved ones, seek support groups when needed, attend follow-up appointments as scheduled, and closely monitor their health.

MSc. Dr. Luu Thao Ngoc

Oncology Department

Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi