Screening
Screening is the use of tests to detect a disease in people who have no symptoms. In countries where stomach cancer is common, such as Japan, screening of the population has helped to find cases at an early stage, so that they can be successfully treated.1 However, in countries where stomach cancer is uncommon, including Australia, screening is not recommended for people who are at average risk from stomach cancer.1,2 Screening might be recommended for people with certain risk factors for stomach cancer.1
Tests that are used for screening include some of the tests that are used for diagnosis of stomach cancer, including examination of the stomach using an endoscope.1
- American Cancer Society (2017). Stomach cancer (accessed May 2017).
- National Cancer Institute. Stomach (gastric) cancer screening (PDQ): health professional version (accessed May 2017).