The diagnosis and management of gastric cancer

摘要

Age standardised mortality rates for gastric cancer are 14.3 per 100000 in men and 6.9 per 100000 in women worldwide. Incidence shows clear regional and sex variations-rates are highest in eastern Asia, eastern Europe, and South America and lowest in northern and southern Africa. Early diagnosis is crucial because of the possibility of early metastasis to the liver, pancreas, omentum, oesophagus, bile ducts, and regional and distant lymph nodes. Using evidence from large randomised controlled trials, meta-analyses, cohort studies, and case-control studies this review aims to outline preventive strategies, highlight the presenting features of gastric cancer, and guide generalists in early diagnosis, referral, and treatment.