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There is no "regular screening system" for stomach cancer in the United States,
The following tests will be performed as needed.

Early detection tests for stomach cancer
Preventing stomach cancer
/Risk assessment tests

Things to consider when undergoing testing

Firefly_japanese patient in their 50s talking to healthcare provider in a doctor's office,

Gastric endoscopy vs.

swallow test

Gastric endoscopy is recommended over barium X-ray examinations because it has a much higher cancer detection rate* and fewer missed diagnoses. Furthermore, barium X-ray examinations are rarely performed for screening purposes in the United States.

H. pylori test

While H. pylori testing is not a test that directly detects stomach cancer, the infection rate among Japanese people is high, and this is the biggest risk factor for stomach cancer. If an infection is present, treatment can lead to effective prevention of stomach cancer.

Insurance confirmation

In the United States, there is a high risk that stomach examinations will be entirely out-of-pocket expenses. Since this depends on your insurance, be sure to check beforehand.

The necessity of testing

In the United States, where regular stomach cancer screenings are not available, it is crucial to clearly communicate your specific symptoms, family history, and the fact that Japanese are at high risk of stomach cancer to healthcare professionals and get them to acknowledge that testing is necessary.

>>Read about how to talk to healthcare professionals

Medical checkup
("Ningen Dock")

You can also undergo these tests by taking advantage of health checkups offered by Japanese clinics in the United States, or by receiving a health checkup during a temporary return to Japan.

Medical checkup ("Ningen dock")

Based on these options, consider which test is right for you.
It's important to consult with a doctor before making a decision.

*Choi, K. S., & Suh, M. (2014). Screening for gastric cancer: the usefulness of endoscopy. Clinical endoscopy, 47(6), 490–496. https://doi.org/10.5946/ce.2014.47.6.490

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