Stomach cancer, which is also known as gastric cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that begins in the lining of the stomach. This is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths across the globe. Different types of cancers may develop with different risk factors. But, many individuals who get the disease might have few or no known risk factors. And, many of us are not aware of the causes or risk factors of stomach cancer.
Several factors that develop stomach cancer such as smoking can be controlled but others such as a person’s age or family history cannot be controlled. Our experts of gastroenterology at the Gut care clinic, in this article, outlined some factors that may raise the risk of developing stomach cancer.
1. Age and gender
Stomach or gastric cancer occurs most commonly in older people. Around half of stomach, cancers are diagnosed in people aged 65 or over. The chances of developing stomach cancers are more in men than women.
2. Helicobacter pylori infection
Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) is a bacteria that lives in the mucus of the lining of the stomach Long-term infection with these bacteria can lead to inflammation and damage to the inner layer of the stomach, which can result in cancer
3. Overweight
Being overweight (excess body fat) or obese increases the risk of getting cancer in the upper part of the stomach, the cardia. Research shows that excess body fat also increases your risk of developing several cancers, including colorectal cancer, kidney, and pancreatic cancers.
4. Diet
An increased risk of stomach cancer is directly linked with diets that are high in smoked foods, salted fish, meat, and pickled vegetables. Eating whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables that contain vitamins A and C may help lower your risk of developing stomach cancer.
5. Previous stomach surgery
Stomach cancers are more likely to develop in those who have had part of their stomach removed to treat non-cancerous diseases such as ulcers. This might be due to the stomach making less acid, which allows more nitrate-producing bacteria to be present.
6. Smoking
Smoking tobacco increases the risk of stomach cancer, particularly in the upper portion of the stomach. Research studies reported that around 1 in 5 stomach cancers are caused by smoking. So, quit smoking and avoid the risk of cancer.
7. Alcohol
Stomach cancer treatment experts state that heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing gastric cancer. Men who consume an average of more than four drinks per day are more likely to develop stomach cancer than men who are very light drinkers.
8. Occupational Exposure
Chemicals that are released from coal, metal, or rubber industries have been linked to the development of stomach cancer. Therefore, people who work in those industries must get a screening test regularly before the symptoms appear.
9. Family History
Those whose parents or siblings have had stomach or gastric cancer are more likely to develop this disease. In addition, certain inherited genetic disorders, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer and Lynch syndrome may increase your risk of stomach cancer.
Spotting stomach cancer early is key to treatment, hence make sure you also know the early signs. These include heartburn, trouble swallowing, belly pain (just above the belly button), and feeling bloated after you eat.
Do not ignore if you notice these symptoms, consult the best gastroenterologists at the Gut care clinic, Bangalore right away
