Stomach Cancer Treatment in Vietnam

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is one of the most serious and common cancers in Asia. Every year, thousands of patients search for effective treatment options that combine high medical quality with reasonable costs. In recent years, Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for international patients seeking professional stomach cancer treatment.

With advanced hospitals, highly trained oncologists, and modern medical technology, Vietnam now offers comprehensive stomach cancer care that meets international standards. This guide provides a detailed overview of stomach cancer treatment in Vietnam, including diagnosis, treatment options, leading hospitals, costs, and services for international patients.

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Why Choose Vietnam for Stomach Cancer Treatment?

Vietnam has developed rapidly in the field of oncology and gastrointestinal medicine. The country is now recognized as a trusted medical tourism destination in Southeast Asia, offering high-quality treatment at a fraction of the price found in Western countries.

Key reasons to choose Vietnam include:

• Modern hospitals with state-of-the-art medical equipment

• Experienced oncologists and gastrointestinal surgeons

• Multidisciplinary cancer treatment teams

• International-standard treatment protocols

• Short waiting times for consultations and procedures

• Significantly lower medical costs

• Dedicated services for international patients

Patients from Australia, Singapore, the United States, Europe, and neighboring Asian countries are increasingly traveling to Vietnam for stomach cancer treatment.

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Understanding Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer begins when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the stomach. It often develops slowly over many years and may not cause obvious symptoms in the early stages.

Common risk factors include:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection

• Unhealthy diet high in salt and processed foods

• Smoking and alcohol use

• Family history of stomach cancer

• Chronic gastritis

• Age over 50

Because early symptoms can be mild, regular screening and early diagnosis are extremely important.

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Advanced Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer in Vietnam

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful treatment. Vietnamese hospitals provide comprehensive diagnostic services using modern medical technology.

Diagnostic Procedures Available

International patients in Vietnam can access:

• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

• Biopsy and pathology analysis

• CT scan and MRI imaging

• PET-CT scan

• Blood tests and tumor markers

• Genetic and molecular testing

• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

Many hospitals offer fast-track diagnostic programs, allowing complete evaluation within just a few days.

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Stomach Cancer Treatment Options in Vietnam

Vietnamese oncology centers follow international guidelines from ASCO and ESMO. Treatment plans are carefully customized based on cancer stage, tumor location, and overall patient health.

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1. Surgery for Stomach Cancer

Surgery is the most important treatment for early and intermediate-stage stomach cancer. Vietnam has many highly skilled gastrointestinal surgeons capable of performing complex procedures such as:

• Partial gastrectomy

• Total gastrectomy

• Lymph node dissection

• Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery

• Robotic-assisted surgery

Modern surgical techniques help reduce pain, shorten hospital stays, and improve recovery time.

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2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is commonly used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Hospitals in Vietnam provide:

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (before surgery)

• Adjuvant chemotherapy (after surgery)

• Combination chemotherapy

• Palliative chemotherapy for advanced stages

Treatment is carefully supervised by experienced oncology specialists.

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3. Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is sometimes used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy, particularly for advanced stomach cancer.

Vietnam offers advanced radiation technologies, including:

• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)

• 3D conformal radiotherapy

These modern techniques allow precise targeting of tumors while protecting healthy tissue.

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4. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is an important option for certain types of stomach cancer, especially HER2-positive tumors.

Vietnamese hospitals provide access to:

• Trastuzumab and other HER2-targeted drugs

• Anti-angiogenic therapy

• Precision medicine based on genetic testing

These treatments help improve survival and quality of life for many patients.

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5. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a new and promising approach for advanced stomach cancer. Vietnam now offers access to internationally approved immunotherapy drugs that help the immune system fight cancer cells more effectively.

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6. Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Treatments

For very early-stage stomach cancer, Vietnam also provides:

• Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)

• Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD)

• Palliative stenting and symptom control

These options can be effective without the need for major surgery.

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Leading Hospitals for Stomach Cancer Treatment in Vietnam

Vietnam has several high-quality hospitals with strong expertise in gastrointestinal oncology.

Vinmec International Hospital System

Vinmec offers:

• International-standard cancer centers

• Multidisciplinary oncology teams

• Advanced surgical and imaging technology

• Professional care for international patients

FV Hospital – Ho Chi Minh City

FV Hospital provides:

• Experienced gastrointestinal surgeons

• Comprehensive stomach cancer treatment

• Modern diagnostic facilities

• English-speaking medical staff

Tam Anh General Hospital

Tam Anh Hospital is known for:

• Strong oncology and gastroenterology departments

• Personalized treatment programs

• Modern medical equipment

• Competitive and transparent pricing

Cho Ray Hospital

One of Vietnam’s largest public hospitals with:

• Extensive experience in stomach cancer surgery

• Specialized oncology teams

• Affordable treatment options

National Cancer Hospital (K Hospital)

Vietnam’s leading specialized cancer hospital offering:

• Advanced stomach cancer treatment

• Comprehensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy

• Long-standing clinical expertise

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Cost of Stomach Cancer Treatment in Vietnam

Affordability is one of the biggest advantages of choosing Vietnam. Treatment costs are significantly lower than in the United States, Australia, or Europe.

Estimated price ranges:

• Endoscopy: $120 – $250

• CT or MRI scan: $200 – $600

• PET-CT scan: $900 – $1,500

• Biopsy: $400 – $1,000

• Stomach cancer surgery: $7,000 – $18,000

• Chemotherapy session: $800 – $2,500

• Radiotherapy course: $3,000 – $9,000

• Targeted therapy: $1,500 – $4,000 per month

Overall, international patients can often save 40% to 70% on total medical expenses by choosing Vietnam.

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Quality and Safety Standards

Medical quality in Vietnam has improved dramatically over the last decade. Patients can expect:

• Evidence-based international treatment protocols

• Highly skilled doctors and surgeons

• Modern hospitals and equipment

• Strict government regulation

• Continuous professional training

Many Vietnamese oncologists have studied or worked in Japan, Korea, Europe, and the United States.

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Support Services for International Patients

Major hospitals in Vietnam provide dedicated services for foreign patients, including:

• English-speaking doctors and nurses

• Professional interpreters

• Assistance with medical visas

• Appointment scheduling

• Translation of medical records

• Travel and accommodation support

• Post-treatment follow-up

These services ensure a smooth and comfortable experience from start to finish.

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What to Expect as an International Patient

The typical process for stomach cancer treatment in Vietnam includes:

1. Sending medical records for review

2. Receiving a treatment plan and cost estimate

3. Traveling to Vietnam

4. Consultation with specialists

5. Additional tests if required

6. Starting treatment promptly

7. Follow-up care and monitoring

Waiting times are usually very short, allowing treatment to begin quickly.

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Recovery and Aftercare in Vietnam

Vietnam offers an excellent environment for recovery after treatment. Patients can benefit from:

• Affordable accommodation

• Professional nursing and rehabilitation services

• Nutritious food and warm climate

• Friendly and supportive culture

• Peaceful destinations for rest and recovery

Many patients choose to recover in locations such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc after completing treatment.

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Is Vietnam the Right Choice for You?

Vietnam is an ideal option for patients who want:

• High-quality stomach cancer care

• Access to modern treatment methods

• Experienced specialists

• Short waiting times

• Affordable medical costs

For most stages of stomach cancer, Vietnam provides outcomes comparable to international centers at a much lower price.

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Conclusion

Stomach cancer treatment in Vietnam has reached a high professional level thanks to modern hospitals, skilled doctors, and advanced medical technology. International patients can access comprehensive care, from early diagnosis to surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

With compassionate care and significant cost savings, Vietnam is becoming one of Asia’s most reliable destinations for stomach cancer treatment.

If you or a loved one are considering treatment abroad, Vietnam offers a safe, effective, and affordable solution worth serious consideration.