Cancer Treatment Guide

Korea has world-leading medical technology for stomach cancer treatment, with a 78.4% five-year survival rate — the highest globally. Minimally invasive treatments like robotic and laparoscopic surgery are widely available. Main treatment methods: • Endoscopic resection — removes tumors without surgery for early-stage cancer • Laparoscopic/Robotic surgery — minimal incisions, faster recovery • Chemotherapy — used before/after surgery to prevent recurrence • Immunotherapy — latest option for advanced stomach cancer Treatment typically takes 2-4 weeks, with 1-2 weeks hospitalization after surgery.

Eating habits change significantly after stomach surgery. It may be uncomfortable at first, but your body will adapt and you'll be able to enjoy most foods again. Early stage (1-2 weeks): • Start with rice porridge, small amounts 6-8 times/day • Chew thoroughly, eat slowly • Drink little during meals, hydrate 30 min after Adaptation (1-3 months): • Transition to soft rice, 4-5 meals/day • Adequate protein (tofu, eggs, fish, chicken breast) • Watch out for overly sweet or greasy foods (dumping syndrome) Stable phase (3+ months): • Regular diet possible but keep small, frequent meals • May need B12, iron, calcium supplements • Monitor weight changes regularly

Appropriate exercise speeds recovery and reduces recurrence risk. Always consult your doctor before starting. Week 1: Get up and walk short distances 2-3 times/day (5-10 min). Deep breathing exercises. Week 2: Extend walks to 15-20 min. Start light stretching. Month 1: 30-min walks possible. Swimming/cycling with doctor approval. Month 3: Light jogging, yoga, tai chi possible. Gradually add core exercises. 6+ months: Most daily exercises possible. Consult doctor for intense workouts. Precautions: • Stop immediately if pain worsens during exercise • No vigorous exercise within 1 hour after meals • Stay well hydrated

Contact your hospital immediately if you notice these symptoms: 🔴 Emergency (go to ER): • Persistent fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) • Bleeding or pus from surgical site • Sudden severe abdominal pain • Blood in vomit • Black or bloody stool 🟡 Caution (contact within 24h): • Vomiting lasting more than 1 day • Complete inability to eat • Increasing redness/swelling at surgical site • Weight loss over 2kg per week • Severe fatigue or dizziness

Feeling anxious, depressed, or fearful during cancer diagnosis and treatment is completely natural. What helps: • Don't suppress emotions — talk honestly to family or medical staff • Regular sleep and light walks effectively improve mood • Join patient communities with similar experiences • Request professional counseling if needed — it's not weakness For caregivers: • Acknowledge the patient's emotions as they are • "I'm here with you" is more helpful than "Stay strong" • Taking care of your own health matters too healwith provides interpretation support and can connect you with psychological counseling during your stay in Korea.