Gastric (stomach) cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, despite
decreasing incidence. Prognosis is poor, because patients often present with advanced disease as a result
of non-specific symptoms in the early stages. Management depends on the stage of disease, the patient’s
general health and performance status. Treatment can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and newer
targeted agents for those with resectable disease. These treatments may also be used in patients with advanced
unresectable disease together with best supportive care. A multidisciplinary approach is essential, and nurses
have a pivotal role to ensure co-ordination and continuity of care for patients throughout the course of their
disease, as well as providing information, emotional and psychosocial support to patients and their families.