Prognosis and duration

Localised (early stage) stomach cancer

This group includes only 20% of those with stomach cancer; they are likely to have had major surgery and possibly a course of chemotherapy. They are likely to be recovered from surgery and any chemotherapy given afterwards within 9-12 months of starting treatment. They may have needs during chemotherapy treatment if side effects of therapy are severe, these should resolve when treatment is complete.

In this group ongoing needs are unlikely to be identified unless there are ongoing rare complications from surgery or chemotherapy treatment. Needs are likely to arise only when disease recurs. The chances of this depend on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. Five year survival for stage 1 stomach cancer is 70%, stage 2 40% and stage 3 20%. Of the group who have curative treatment less than half (30% to 50%) will survive for 5 years as a whole. When disease recurs refer to guidance for advanced /recurrent disease.

In cases where needs are identified during treatment of the primary tumour, awards should be time limited to cover the period of treatment and recovery. A return to health is expected in the typical case. If disease has recurred after successful treatment of any stage of stomach cancer, information relating to the advanced/recurrent disease stage is appropriate.

Life awards are recommended even if palliative treatment has appeared to restore health.

All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.

Amended November 2008