J Korean Med Assoc.  2002 Aug;45(8):964-971. 10.5124/jkma.2002.45.8.964.

Proposal of a Screening Program for Gastric Cancer in Korea

• Park CH

• KMID: 2347552
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2002.45.8.964

Abstract

Stomach cancer is one of the major causes of cancer deaths in Korea. It has been well known, like other solid tumors, that cancer stage at diagnosis is the most important prognostic factor in gastric cancer. Previous studies from Japan have revealed that screen-detected gastric cancers showed an earlier stage distribution and had a lower mortality rate than symptom-diagnosed cases. Considering the high provalence and substantial mortality from gastric cancer in Korea, it seems necessary to establish a well organized nationwide screening program. In this regard, consensus meeting was held in January, 2002 in conjunction with The Koean Gastric Cancer Association and National Cancer Center in Korea. In this meeting, specialists from gastroenterology, surgery and radiology drew a conclusion as follows : biannual screening for people aged 40 years and over either by endoscopy or upper gastrointestinal series. During the screening endoscopy, biopsy can be performed if necessary, and specimens should be examined by pathologist. Screening test should be performed in authorized hospital or mobile unit by qualified doctors.

Keyword

Stomach cancer; Early detection; Screening program

MeSH Terms

Biopsy
Consensus
Diagnosis
Endoscopy
Gastroenterology
Japan
Korea*
Mass Screening*
Mortality
Specialization
Stomach Neoplasms*