Stomach cancer survival rate by stage

02 Jul, 2025

“Doctor, what are my chances of survival?” This is often the very first—and most important—question that patients and their families ask after a stomach cancer diagnosis. And understandably so. The answer, however, is not one-size-fits-all—it depends greatly on the stage at which the cancer is detected and how quickly treatment begins.

In this blog, we break down the survival rates of stomach (gastric) cancer stage by stage, helping you understand what each stage means and what outcomes you can expect with timely, expert care.

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, ranks as the world’s fifth most common cancer and third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Dr. Vivek Mangla—Senior Director in GI & HPB Surgical Oncology at Max Super Specialty Hospital—brings over 20 years of experience, offering advanced, personalized treatment and boosting survival chances.

Understanding Stomach Cancer Stages 0–IV

Staging, defined by the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis), directs treatment strategy and predicts survival outcomes:

• Stage 0: Cancer confined to the inner lining (mucosa).
• Stage I: Tumor invades deeper layers but without lymph node spread.
• Stage II: Cancer spreads to nearby lymph nodes or tissues.
• Stage III: More extensive regional lymph node involvement or adjacent organ invasion.
• Stage IV: Metastasis affects distant organs like liver or lungs.

Stage-wise Survival & Treatment Strategies

Stage 0

• Treatment: Endoscopic resection or surgical removal (gastrectomy) plus lymph node clearance.
• 5-Year Survival: Exceeds 90% with proper intervention.

Stage I

• Treatment: Partial or total gastrectomy depending on location of tumour with D2 lymphadenectomy.
• 5-Year Survival: Approximately 80–90%.

Stage II & III

Treatment Plan:

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (FLOT regimen) to shrink the tumour pre-surgery.
• Radical gastrectomy with extensive lymph node removal (16–30+ nodes).
• Adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery.



5-Year Survival:

• Stage II: 30–60%,
• Stage III: 10–30%

Stage IV

• Treatment Focus: Systemic chemotherapy (± targeted/immuno therapy); surgery/radiation for symptom control or limited metastasis.
• Selected patients may undergo aggressive surgery for isolated metastases.
• 5-Year Survival: Typically under 5%, though outcomes are improving

Dr. Vivek Mangla’s Multidisciplinary Approach

• Accurate staging: Test like endoscopy, biopsy, CT/PET-CT, and laparoscopy helps in detecting tiny metastases in ~15–20% of cases.
• Surgical precision: Precision in stomach cancer surgery isn’t just a technical skill—it’s the difference between survival and setback.
  Under the care of an expert GI cancer surgeon like Dr. Vivek Mangla, who combines surgical expertise with modern techniques like laparoscopic surgery and robotic surgery and enhanced staging tools, patients have the best possible chance at cure and long-term survival.
• Tailored multimodal therapy: Combines chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and precision medicine as needed, based on tumour genetics and patient health.
• Comprehensive recovery support: Emphasizes nutrition, cessation of smoking/alcohol, breathing exercises, and early ambulation.

Role of Post-Operative Care

Post-operative care in stomach cancer is essential for enhancing recovery and increasing survival rates. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Vivek Mangla, a leading GI and stomach cancer surgeon in Delhi NCR, patients receive holistic post-surgery care that includes nutritional support, infection prevention, early mobilization, and regular monitoring. Dr. Mangla’s approach also emphasizes the use of supplements and strict adherence to follow-up visits every 3 months in the first year, gradually reducing frequency thereafter With a focus on surgical excellence and comprehensive aftercare, Dr. Mangla ensures the best possible outcomes for his patients.

In Conclusion

With modern techniques, precise staging, expert surgery, and integrated treatments, defeating stomach cancer is increasingly achievable—especially under expert care like Dr. Vivek Mangla’s. If you or a loved one are dealing with gastric cancer, consult an experienced surgical oncologist early—every moment counts.

For appointments

Max Hospital Vaishali
Room No. 2623, 6th Floor, Tower 2.
+91-9868352888 , +91-9971449288

Max Hospital Patparganj
Room No. 1001, Ground Floor, New Building.
+91-9868352888, +91-9971449288

Specialist Clinic
D23, Block D, Rajori Garden, New Delhi
+91-9868352888, +91-9971449288



Categories >> Stomach cancer
Tags >> Stomach cancer