If you have a family history of stomach cancer, you should undergo genetic testing for mutations of the CDH1 gene. People with this mutation are at the highest risk of diffuse gastric cancer, an aggressive form of the disease that tends to go undiscovered until it is at an advanced stage. If you test positive for a CDH1 mutation, you may undergo a gastrectomy (removal of the stomach) to eliminate your risk or have twice-yearly screening endoscopies with random biopsies. This is a decision you will make with your doctor. Individuals with a CDH1 mutation also have a higher risk for certain types of breast cancer. At Duke Health, your medical team will include genetic counselors, surgical oncologists, gastroenterologists, nutritionists, and psychologists who are experienced in managing the multiple cancers that may be associated with this rare condition.
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919-668-6688Stomach Cancer
Duke’s stomach cancer specialists use the latest medical and surgical advances to find and treat stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, at the earliest possible stage. We give you personalized care designed to treat your stomach cancer aggressively and thoroughly, while also affording you the best possible quality of life and health.
Tests for Stomach Cancer
Blood and Stool Tests
These tests look for the presence of substances that may indicate cancer.
Biopsy
A tissue sample is taken, often through an endoscope -- a small tube with a camera -- that is inserted through the nose, mouth, or stomach. This tissue is examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer.
Advanced Imaging
X-rays, endoscopic ultrasound, CT, MRI, and PET may be used to diagnose your tumor, determine if it has spread, and evaluate your response to treatments.
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer
Why Choose Duke
Nationally Ranked Cancer Program
As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we are recognized for exploring new treatment opportunities through ongoing research and clinical trials. We are also part of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation’s leading cancer centers dedicated to improving care for our patients.
Pre-Surgical Treatments
We use chemotherapy and radiation therapy before surgery to shrink stomach cancer tumors. Our approach has proven to reduce complications and improve outcomes.
Leaders in Robotic Surgery
Duke surgeons perform thousands of robotic surgeries each year, including surgeries for stomach cancer. Robotic surgery leads to fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times—meaning that you move on to the next phase of treatment or return to your activities more quickly. Our surgeons also advise industry engineers as they develop robotic surgical platforms that translate to better outcomes.
Targeted Therapies
We use drugs that block the growth and spread of cancer for your specific type of stomach cancer. Targeted therapies are often combined with chemotherapy. If you have advanced stomach cancer, this approach may extend your life.
A Team of Specialists
Our specialists -- medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists; gastroenterologists; radiologists; pathologists; geneticists; specially trained nurses; nutritionists; and social workers -- meet regularly to discuss your care. We work together to offer you coordinated and advanced surgical, medical, and follow-up care.
Access to Clinical Trials
You may be eligible to participate in our clinical trials, which can give you access to new anti-cancer targeted therapies, new approaches to surgery, and new ways to minimize cancer-related symptoms -- before they become widely available.
More Minimally Invasive Options
We perform many stomach surgeries with a laparoscope, which is inserted through small incisions. This less invasive method is used to identify and sometimes remove cancer. As a result, you’ll likely have less pain and scarring, lower risk of infection, a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery.
Support for You and Your Family
Our comprehensive support services range from helping patients minimize the side effects of cancer treatment to coping with the emotional and psychological effects of diagnosis and treatment. View all of our cancer support groups in our event calendar.
Comforting Environment
Our Duke Cancer Center features spacious waiting areas, a Quiet Room, large infusion rooms, and a rooftop garden area where patients -- if their treatment regimen permits -- can receive chemotherapy outdoors.
Best Cancer Hospital in North Carolina
Where you receive your cancer care is important. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our cancer program is nationally ranked, and the highest-ranked program in North Carolina, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2025–2026.
