Some people have one or more family member with stomach cancer. These patients are more likely to develop stomach cancer themselves. This is called “high risk.”
Siteman cares for these patients and their family members through a high-risk screening program. We offer genetic testing and screening exams to high-risk patients. We often care for multiple members of the same family.
How does Siteman test for stomach cancer risk?
When you come to Siteman’s high-risk screening program for stomach cancer, WashU Medicine physicians will care for you. They will recommend genetic screening tests to see if you have a mutation or syndrome that could cause stomach cancer. These are simple blood tests that can be done in a lab or doctor’s office.
WashU Medicine physicians may also suggest that you have other diagnostic exams to check for early signs of stomach cancer. These might include:
- Endoscopic ultrasound
- Imaging tests
- Biopsy
How does Siteman care for high-risk patients?
If you have a genetic syndrome or mutation that puts you at high risk for stomach cancer, WashU Medicine physicians will discuss your options with you.
Some high-risk patients decide to have their stomachs removed before they can develop cancer. This procedure is called a “gastrectomy.” Patients can live normal lives after having gastrectomies.
WashU Medicine surgeons at Siteman are highly skilled at this procedure. In many cases, they are able to perform it using robotic tools and minimally-invasive techniques. This means that they will not make large incisions.
Patients treated with minimally-invasive surgeries tend to recover more quickly. Laparoscopies are essential for getting an accurate, detailed diagnosis of stomach cancer. But not all cancer centers do them. At Siteman, we will make sure you get the thorough diagnosis you need.