Just diagnosed with Stomach Cancer — what should I do first

First Steps After a Stomach Cancer Diagnosis

I understand this is overwhelming news. Here's what you should prioritize right now to set yourself up for the best possible care:

1. Assemble Your Healthcare Team

You need a multidisciplinary team — not just one doctor. This should include:

• A gastroenterologic (GI) oncologist who specializes in stomach cancer
• A surgeon experienced in stomach cancer procedures
• A pathologist to analyze your tumor
• Nursing support and a patient navigator (many cancer centers provide this)
• Nutritionists (stomach cancer often affects eating)
• Pain management specialists if needed

Why this matters: Research shows patients do better with a team approach where experts communicate with each other about your care.

2. Get Your Tumor Fully Characterized

Ask your doctors to perform:

• Pathology analysis — understanding your tumor's type and stage
• Genetic/molecular testing — checking for specific mutations (like HER2, MSI/dMMR status, BRCA mutations) that may guide treatment options
• Imaging — CT scans, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and possibly PET scans to see if cancer has spread

Why this matters: These tests reveal what treatments might work best for YOUR specific cancer, not just "stomach cancer" in general.

3. Don't Rush Into Treatment Alone

Even though cancer feels urgent, you have time to:

• Get a second opinion at a major cancer center (ideally before starting any treatment)
• Understand your stage — this determines your treatment options
• Ask about clinical trials — national guidelines recommend considering trials early, as they may offer access to newer approaches

4. Key Questions to Ask Your Oncology Team

Before any treatment starts, ask:

1. What is the goal of treatment? (cure, remission, symptom control, or a combination?)
2. What is my cancer's stage, and what does that mean for my prognosis?
3. What treatment options exist for my specific type of stomach cancer?
4. Are there clinical trials I'm eligible for?
5. What are the side effects of the recommended treatment, and how will we manage them?
6. How will we know if treatment is working? (scans, blood tests, symptom improvement?)
7. What support services are available? (nutrition, mental health, financial assistance)
8. Who do I call if I have questions or problems between appointments?

5. **Gather Your [ID removed]

Collect and organize:

• Pathology reports from your biopsy
• All imaging scans (CT, ultrasound, etc.)
• Blood test results
• Any endoscopy reports

Why this matters: You'll need these for second opinions and to share with your care team.

6. Find Support

• Patient advocates — ask your insurance company or hospital for an oncology patient advocate
• Support groups — connect with others who understand what you're facing
• Family/friends — designate a "health quarterback" (a trusted person to help manage appointments, take notes, and support you emotionally)

7. Understand Your Insurance

• Contact your insurance company to understand coverage
• Ask about deductibles and out-of-pocket costs
• Explore disability benefits if you're working
• Ask about financial assistance programs at your cancer center

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Important Reminders

✓ You are not a statistic. Every patient's situation is unique. Treatment plans should be tailored to YOUR specific cancer and YOUR goals.

✓ Take time to make informed decisions. Unless it's an emergency, you have time to get second opinions and understand your options.

✓ Quality of life matters. Tell your team if managing side effects or maintaining your daily life is important to you — they can adjust treatment plans accordingly.

✓ Stay organized. Keep a notebook or digital file with all your test results, appointment dates, medication names, and questions.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.