What are the most important risk factors for stomach cancer?

The most important risk factors for stomach cancer include a combination of factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease, such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, chronic gastritis, and certain dietary habits, including excessive consumption of salted, smoked, or pickled foods. Advancing age, male gender, and a family history of stomach cancer also increase these risks.

Infection and Chronic Inflammation

Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most prominent risk factors for stomach cancer. This bacterium spreads from person to person through direct contact with saliva, vomit, or stool. Although many people with a chronic H. pylori infection do not experience symptoms, some may develop stomach ulcers or atrophic gastritis, which can lead to serious changes in the stomach lining and, eventually, stomach cancer. Treating an H. pylori infection reduces the risk of developing these types of stomach cancer [3].

Additionally, the presence of chronic inflammation in the stomach also increases the risk of stomach cancer [1].

Dietary Habits and Lifestyle

Dietary habits play a significant role in determining the risk of stomach cancer. Consuming large amounts of salted, smoked, or pickled foods is linked to an increased risk of the disease. Smoking is also an additional risk factor [1].

Demographic and Genetic Factors

Stomach cancer primarily affects older adults, with two-thirds of those affected being over 65 years of age. Men are also more susceptible to stomach cancer compared to women [1]. A family history of stomach cancer also increases the risk. In some rare cases, stomach cancer may be hereditary, such as in Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer (HDGC) syndrome, which results from a mutation in the CDH1 gene [3].

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Stomach cancer is difficult to diagnose in its early stages because initial symptoms, such as indigestion and stomach discomfort, can be caused by other problems [1]. If you have any of the risk factors mentioned above or notice persistent symptoms such as stomach pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, or weakness, it is important to consult a doctor to evaluate your condition [3]. The doctor may order tests, such as an upper endoscopy with a biopsy, to determine the cause [3]. For more information about stomach cancer, you can visit Stomach Cancer: Risk Factors, Early Symptoms, and Modern Treatment Options (Arabic).

Medical references

• Stomach Cancer
• Childhood Stomach Cancer