Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a complex disease with multiple risk factors. Here are some of the known causes and risk factors¹ ² ³:
– *Infections*: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a major risk factor, causing around 40% of stomach cancers in the UK.
– *Genetic Factors*: Family history, genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and hereditary diffuse gastric cancer increase the risk.
– *Lifestyle Factors*:
– Smoking: doubles the risk of stomach cancer
– Diet: high intake of salty, smoked, or pickled foods, and low intake of fruits and vegetables
– Alcohol consumption: excessive drinking increases the risk
– *Medical Conditions*:
– Chronic gastritis
– Stomach ulcers
– Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
– Pernicious anemia
– *Environmental Factors*:
– Exposure to certain chemicals, like coal, metal, and rubber
– Radiation exposure
– *Demographic Factors*:
– Age: stomach cancer is more common in people over 50
– Sex: men are more likely to develop stomach cancer than women
– Ethnicity: people of Asian, South American, or Eastern European descent are at higher risk
While these factors increase the risk, many people with these risk factors never develop stomach cancer, and some people without known risk factors do. Consult a doctor if you’re concerned about your risk.
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