Stomach cancer

Also known as:

  • Gastric cancer
  • Gastric carcinoma
  • Gastric adenocarcinoma
  • Adenocarcinoma of the stomach
  • Carcinoma of the stomach

What is stomach cancer?

Stomach cancer is a cancer that occurs anywhere in the stomach. The most common types of stomach cancer in the UK are adenocarcinomas, which are cancers that develop in gland cells.

Rarer stomach related cancers include, neuroendocrine tumours, squamous cell cancers and GISTs.

How rare is stomach cancer?

Stomach cancer is very rare in the UK. Around 7,000 people were diagnosed in 2011.

Who does stomach cancer affect?

Stomach cancer is more common men and in people over the age of 50.

Why is RareCan interested in stomach cancer?

RareCan is working to accelerate research into stomach cancer by making it easier for researchers to connect with people who have this rare form of cancer. You can help us do this by becoming a RareCan member and sharing information with us about your cancer diagnosis. We will then get in touch with you about any research opportunities that might be suitable for you.

Looking for a different cancer type?

Please visit our ‘rare cancer list’ to search for your cancer type 

Useful links

If you have stomach cancer and are looking for support, we recommend the following websites:

OPA Cancer Charity UK

A charity that aims to support patients with stomach cancers, as well as their families and carers.

Heartburn Cancer Charity

Heartburn Cancer UK

A charity that raises awareness of the dangers of persistent heartburn, GORD and Barrett’s oesphagus.

Guts UK

Guts UK

A charity that provides expert information and funds research into the digestive system, including the stomach.