Understanding the Importance of Gastric Cancer Screening

Gastric cancer remains a significant global health concern, with a 5-year survival rate of just 32% in many countries. However, early detection drastically improves survival rates. In Japan and South Korea, where national gastric cancer screening programs exist, over 60-70% of cases are diagnosed at an early stage, leading to survival rates exceeding 70%.
 
To bridge this gap, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released updated recommendations on screening and surveillance, identifying high-risk individuals and the most effective detection methods.
 
 

Who Should Get Screened for Gastric Cancer?

Certain individuals are at higher risk and should consider screening:

• First-generation immigrants from high-incidence regions (East Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe)
• Individuals with a family history of gastric cancer in a first-degree relative
• Those with hereditary gastrointestinal polyposis or hereditary cancer syndromes
• Individuals with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection

 
Because gastric cancer rates are significantly higher in some ethnic groups, targeted screening can reduce health disparities and improve early detection.
 
 

Endoscopy: The Gold Standard for Gastric Cancer Screening

Endoscopy is the most effective method for detecting gastric cancer, allowing direct visualization of the stomach lining and biopsy collection for further evaluation. High-quality endoscopic screening involves:

• High-definition white-light endoscopy with image enhancement
• Gastric mucosal cleansing for optimal visibility
• Adequate visual inspection time
• Systematic biopsy protocols for mucosal staging when necessary

 
At Bumrungrad International Hospital, our advanced technology and expert endoscopists provide world-class gastric cancer screening with unparalleled accuracy.
 
 

H. pylori and Its Role in Gastric Cancer Prevention

H. pylori infection is a major risk factor for gastric cancer. Eradicating H. pylori can significantly reduce the risk of developing gastric cancer. The AGA recommends:

• Screening high-risk individuals for H. pylori
• "Familial-based testing" – testing adult household members of those diagnosed with H. pylori

If H. pylori is detected, eradication therapy is recommended to lower cancer risk and prevent disease progression.
 
 

What Happens After an Endoscopic Screening?

If gastric atrophy or gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) is suspected, biopsies are taken using the updated Sydney System, which includes:

• At least five biopsies from different stomach regions
• Proper labeling of biopsy samples
• Additional targeted biopsies for suspicious lesions

 
If precancerous conditions such as gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) or dysplasia are detected, periodic endoscopic surveillance may be required to monitor changes and intervene early.
 
 

Advanced Screening & Surveillance at Bumrungrad International Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital is at the forefront of gastric cancer detection and management. Here’s why our hospital is a global leader:

1. Advanced Endoscopists Specializing in Early Gastric Cancer Screening

• Our gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) detection rates are between 50-80%, significantly higher than the 10-15% detection rates reported in Japan and South Korea.
• This expertise allows for earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

2. Cutting-Edge Endoscopic Technology

• All our gastroscopes are high-definition models with superior imaging.
• We utilize white-light endoscopy and image enhancement technology to improve early lesion detection.

3. Certified Endoscopy Unit Ensuring Safety and Excellence

• Our Endoscopy Center is certified by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) as an Endoscopy Unit of Excellence.
• This ensures the highest safety and quality standards.

4. Multidisciplinary Tumor Board for Optimal Treatment Planning

• If early gastric cancer is detected, our tumor board—including gastroenterologists, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, geneticists, and surgeons—creates a personalized treatment plan.

 

The Future of Gastric Cancer Screening: AI & Enhanced Training

Early gastric cancer can be difficult to detect, especially for less-experienced endoscopists. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance accuracy. AI-assisted endoscopy is already showing promising results in improving early gastric cancer detection.
 
At Bumrungrad, we are committed to adopting AI-driven advancements and continuous specialist training to provide the most accurate diagnoses possible.
 
 

Takeaway Message: Don’t Wait—Early Detection Saves Lives

Gastric cancer is a serious but preventable disease. If you fall into a high-risk category, consider endoscopic screening as soon as possible.
 
At Bumrungrad International Hospital, we combine state-of-the-art technology, internationally trained specialists, and a patient-centered approach to provide world-class gastric cancer screening and treatment.
 


Schedule your gastric cancer screening today. Contact our Digestive Disease Center for more information.
 
Tossapol Kerdsirichairat, MD, FACG, FASGE
Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine
Advanced/Bariatric Endoscopy, Digestive Disease Center
Bumrungrad International Hospital