The Great Gastric Cancer Debate: Is Neoadjuvant Radiation Worth Adding to Chemo?

This study navigates the ongoing debate over whether neoadjuvant radiation should be combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of resectable gastric cancer. While awaiting results from specific clinical trials, experts discuss the pros and cons. Neoadjuvant radiation may be better tolerated and improve pathologic response, especially for certain tumor locations. However, it hasn’t shown a clear survival benefit when surgery is already adequate, as gastric cancer often recurs distantly. This discussion helps shape optimal neoadjuvant strategies for these patients while waiting for trial outcomes.