Condition guide
This page covers stomach cancer and cancer of the gastro-oesophageal junction, where the oesophagus meets the stomach. It explains standard care at home and the newer options in China that may be relevant.
Stomach cancer often causes few symptoms early on. Later signs can include pain, weight loss, vomiting or trouble swallowing. Cancers at the gastro-oesophageal junction are managed by similar teams and often with similar drugs.
Testing the tumour for markers is important. HER2, PD-L1, microsatellite status and Claudin 18.2 can all affect which medicines are suitable.
Early cancers may be removed with endoscopy or surgery. Later stages usually combine chemotherapy with surgery, and sometimes radiation. Surgery may be needed to remove part or all of the stomach.
For advanced disease, chemotherapy is the base, with trastuzumab for HER2-positive tumours and immunotherapy for suitable tumours. Palliative care helps with pain, eating and nausea, and clinical trials may be an option.
The first CAR-T approved for a solid tumour, for Claudin 18.2-positive stomach and gastro-oesophageal junction cancer, approved in China in June 2026. We confirm acceptance of foreign patients in writing before you book.
Read more →Medicines approved in China first, for selected gastric cancers. We are confirming current hospital access.
Read more →Heating used with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Not a stand-alone treatment.
Read more →For selected tumours or lymph nodes that are hard to reach.
Read more →Specialist review of your pathology and imaging.
Read more →CAR-T may be relevant if your tumour tests positive for Claudin 18.2 and negative for HER2, and the disease has progressed after earlier treatment. Testing can often be done at home and the report sent ahead.
This is a new therapy. Side effects include cytokine release syndrome, low blood counts and stomach problems. Not everyone responds, and responses may not last. There is no guarantee that a Chinese hospital will accept you.
Upload your reports for specialist review.
Read more →How to request pathology reports and slides.
Read more →Planning a long flight safely.
Read more →It is a protein found on the surface of some stomach and junction cancer cells. Some newer drugs and cell therapies target it. A tissue test shows whether your tumour has it.
No CAR-T for a solid tumour is approved in Canada, the US or Europe at this time. Some clinical trials may exist, so ask your oncologist.
CAR-T usually takes about 6 to 10 weeks, including manufacturing and monitoring. Other options vary.
These options are generally considered after earlier treatments. Your oncologist and the Chinese team decide.
Do not delay standard treatment. Stomach cancer can advance while you wait for new options. Licensed doctors make the decisions, and we coordinate. We cannot promise eligibility or outcomes.
Sources: Canadian Cancer Society, Treatments for stomach cancer · National Cancer Institute, Stomach cancer treatment (PDQ)
Last reviewed: 12 November 2026. This page is general information, not medical advice.
Sino Health Link is an independent coordination service, not a hospital. We do not diagnose, prescribe or treat. Licensed doctors make all medical recommendations and decisions with you.
