Proposal of age definition for early-onset gastric cancer based on the Korean Gastric Cancer Association nationwide survey data: a retrospective observational study
10.4174/astr.2025.108.4.245
- Author:
Seong-A JEONG
1
;
Ji Sung LEE
;
Ba Ool SEONG
;
Seul-gi OH
;
Chang Seok KO
;
Sa-Hong MIN
;
Chung Sik GONG
;
Beom Su KIM
;
Moon-Won YOO
;
Jeong Hwan YOOK
;
In-Seob LEE
;
Author Information
1. Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research
2025;108(4):245-255
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to define an optimal age cutoff for early-onset gastric cancer (EOGC) and compare its characteristics with those of late-onset gastric cancer (LOGC) using nationwide survey data.
Methods:Using data from a nationwide survey, this comprehensive population-based study analyzed data spanning 3 years (2009, 2014, and 2019). The joinpoint analysis and interrupted time series (ITS) methodology were employed to identify age cutoffs for EOGC based on the sex ratio and tumor histology. Clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical outcomes were compared between the EOGC and LOGC groups.
Results:The age cutoff for defining EOGC was suggested to be 50 years, supported by joinpoint and ITS analyses. Early gastric cancer was predominantly present in the EOGC and LOGC groups. Patients with EOGC comprised 20.3% of the total study cohort and demonstrated a more advanced disease stage compared to patients with LOGC. However, patients with EOGC underwent more minimally invasive surgeries, experienced shorter hospital stays, and had lower postoperative morbidity and mortality rates.
Conclusion:This study proposes an age of ≤50 years as a criterion for defining EOGC and highlights its features compared to LOGC. Further research using this criterion should guide tailored treatment strategies and improve outcomes for young patients with gastric cancer.
