Progress in neoadjuvant therapy for gastric cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Gastric cancer is a leading global malignancy, frequently diagnosed at advanced stages.
• Early symptoms are often subtle, and low screening rates contribute to late diagnosis.
• Surgical resection for advanced gastric cancer has limitations, including incomplete resection and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current research progress and breakthroughs in neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) for advanced gastric cancer.
• To discuss the potential benefits and ongoing controversies surrounding NAT in gastric cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of clinical trials and studies on neoadjuvant therapy for advanced gastric cancer.
• Analysis of different NAT modalities, including chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, and targeted therapy combinations.

Main Results:

• Neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) encompasses chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, and targeted therapy combinations.
• Clinical trials suggest NAT may enhance therapeutic effects and patient prognosis in advanced gastric cancer.
• The efficacy of NAT varies, with ongoing debate stemming from trial heterogeneity and gastric cancer's complex nature.

Conclusions:

• Neoadjuvant therapy represents a significant area of research for improving outcomes in advanced gastric cancer.
• Further research is needed to clarify the optimal application and standardize protocols for NAT.
• Addressing the heterogeneity of gastric cancer is crucial for maximizing the benefits of neoadjuvant approaches.