Risk Factors
A risk factor is a characteristic, behavior, or condition that raises the probability of developing a disease. Most people with risk factors never develop stomach cancer and some people get stomach cancer with no risk factors at all. However, here are some factors known to increase your risk of developing stomach cancer:
Helicobacter pylori infection
H. pylori is a form of bacteria that can infect the inner lining of the stomach, causing ulcers and inflammation. This infection increases the risk of developing stomach cancer. H. pylori is classified as a carcinogen or cancer causing entity. If infected, H. pylori can be treated with antibiotics and acid reducers.
Gender
Men are more likely to get stomach cancer than women.
Age
Older people are at higher risk for stomach cancer. Two-thirds of people with the disease are over age 65. However, in recent years, we have seen an increase in younger patients who are diagnosed with this cancer.
Family history of stomach cancer
Having a close relative who has had stomach cancer may increases your risk for stomach cancer. There is a rare form of hereditary gastric cancer caused by genetic mutations where a very high percent of people in the family will develop stomach cancer. In this setting, many people undergo more intense surveillance. This condition is rare. Mutations that can lead to hereditary gastric cancers include APC (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis), TP53 (Li-Fraumeni syndrome), and CDH1. Having a CDH1 mutation means that you are at high risk for developing a very aggressive form of stomach cancer called hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC).
Ethnicity
Pacific islanders, Hispanic Americans, and African Americans are at a higher risk for stomach cancer than white Americans.
Geography
Stomach cancer is most prevalent in Asia, Southern and Eastern Europe, Central America, and South America.
Diet
Smoked, salted, and pickled foods may increase your risk of developing stomach cancer. Fresh fruits and vegetables may decrease this risk.
Obesity
Obesity and lack of physical activity may increase the risk.
Alcohol and tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco use increases the chance of developing stomach cancer.
Exposure
Those who work in the coal, rubber, and metal industries may be at a greater risk for developing stomach cancer due to exposure.
Previous stomach surgery
People who have had stomach surgery for ulcer disease may have an increased risk of stomach cancer decades after their original surgery.
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Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
People with HNPCC are more likely to develop polyps in the stomach or small intestine but these do not necessarily evolve into cancer. Surveillance of the upper gastrointestinal tract should be considered in addition to surveillance of the colon for HNPCC patients.
