Stomach cancer
Stomach cancer is more common in people aged over 55, and affects more men than women. Over 550 people are diagnosed with it in Ireland every year.
Stomach cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapies and radiotherapy.
On this page:
What is stomach cancer?
Stomach cancer happens when cells in the stomach change and start to grow quickly. They can then form a tumour. The tumour can affect how the stomach works and cause problems for you. Stomach cancer can also be called gastric cancer.
Over 550 people are diagnosed with stomach cancer in Ireland every year.
What is the stomach and what does it do?
The stomach is part of your digestive system. It is a hollow organ shaped like a bag that goes from the end of your oesophagus to the start of your small bowel.
In the stomach, glands make chemicals, such as enzymes and acids, to help break down food. The stomach lining also makes a type of protein called intrinsic factor. This helps to absorb vitamin B12 into your bloodstream needed by red blood cells and your nervous system.
Diagnosing stomach cancer
More information about stomach cancer treatment
Treatment for stomach cancer includes surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapies and radiotherapy. For more information about treatments for stomach cancer, visit our treatment page.
More information about stomach cancer
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Our cancer support section contains information and advice on coping with cancer for diagnosed patients and their loved ones.
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