Stomach Cancer Treatment In Singapore

Various options for stomach cancer treatment in Singapore are available, depending on the stage, type, and location of the cancer. In addition to treatments using established methodologies, novel treatments under clinical trial conditions are also possible. The doctors will recommend suitable treatments based on the stage of the cancer as well as factor factors, such as the patient’s age, overall health, and preferences.

Options For Stomach Cancer Treatment

• Surgery – Surgery is widely used, and can be an effective form of treatment for stomach cancer. If the tumour has not spread to other organs, a part of, or the whole of the stomach and the surrounding lymph glands may be removed via open or laparoscopic (key hole) surgery. Even in certain patients with advanced stomach cancer, surgery may be performed to reduce cancer complications such as blockage of the stomach or bleeding from the cancer.
  • Partial Gastrectomy – The lower portion of the stomach is removed, and the remaining stomach is connected to the small intestine.
  • Total Gastrectomy – The whole stomach is removed, and the esophagus is connected to the small intestine.
• Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy) – Radiotherapy uses high energy waves similar to x-rays to kill cancer cells. Patients might have radiotherapy as part of the overall treatment for stomach cancer. Patients with stomach cancer usually receive external-beam radiation therapy, which is radiation given from a machine outside the body. Radiotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink the size of the tumor or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy – Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to help kill cancer cells and minimize the size of the tumor. It can be given alone or combined with radiotherapy before or after surgery. Chemotherapy may also be used to alleviate symptoms, reduce the chance of cancer recurrence or improve the chance of surviving for patients with advanced stomach cancer that cannot be operated upon. The side effects depend mainly on which drugs and the amount administrated.
• Endoscopic Therapy – Endoscopic therapy removes the tumor via gastroscopy without the need for surgery. It is typically only applicable to the early stages of stomach cancer.
• Targeted Therapy – Targeted therapy is aimed at specific cancer cells to inhibit the growth and spread of a tumor. It is associated with milder side effects when compared to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
• Immunotherapy – Immunotherapy is also called biological therapy. It is designed to boost the body’s natural defenses to fight the cancer. It uses substances made either by the body or in a laboratory to improve, target, or restore immune system function.

Stomach Cancer Treatment In Singapore – Early Detection Helps Improve Chances Of Success

Early diagnosis of stomach cancer is a critical factor that favours successful treatment. If you are at risk for stomach cancer, speak to your doctor about the necessary screening checks.

Hospitals And Clinics For Stomach Cancer Treatment In Singapore

There are many hospitals and clinics that offer stomach cancer treatment in Singapore. Some noteworthy ones that are worth considering include:

• Singapore General Hospital. Singapore’s first and largest hospital. Singapore General Hospital provides affordable specialist care for patients and conducts research to improve patient care. It is the flagship hospital of the public healthcare system and considered by many to be the de-facto public hospital in Singapore. SGH has a Division of Medical Oncology.  
• National University Hospital. Established in 1985,NUH is the first university hospital in Singapore. Its legacy however, dates back to the founding in 1905 of what is today the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Check their Surgical Oncology division for cancer treatment option.
• Gleneagles Hospital. A premier private hospital in Singapore, Gleneagles is a 221-bed hospital offering an array of medical and surgical specialties including oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology, orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, and obstetrics and gynaecology. Gleneagles Hospital is by the Joint Commission International (JCI), an internationally recognised standard for patient and staff safety. Gleneagles’ Cancer (Oncology) department offers treatment for stomach cancer.
• Mount Elizabeth Hospital. Mount Elizabeth has been offering medical services to patients across the Asia-Pacific for over 40 years.  Strategically combining the twin strengths of leading medical talents and up-to-date medical technology, Mount Elizabeth earns the reputation of being not only a top hospital in Singapore, but in the region as well. Mount Elizabeth Hospital is also the recipient of the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. It has a Cancer (Oncology) centre.
• Parkway Cancer Centre. This is cancer specialty clinic located at Parkway East Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, and Mount Elizabeth Hospital. Parkway Cancer Centre offers a range of cancer treatments in a safe and soothing environment. Their website is here: Parkway Cancer Centre
• Curie Oncology. Curie Oncology is a boutique oncology practice, located at Mount Elizabeth Hospital and Farrer Park Medical Centre. They specialise in complex oncology and provide care in a multi-disciplinary role. Their website is here: Curie Oncology

[Updated 5 Dec 22]