Stomach Cancer: Causes And 5 Ways To Reduce Risk

What is Stomach Cancer?

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that can develop in the digestive system of humans. It is the most common type of cancer in Malaysia and one of the leading causes of cancer deaths.

Stomach cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, dietary habits and lifestyle. Let's take a closer look at the causes of stomach cancer.

1.  Genetic Factors

Some people are predisposed to stomach cancer due to genetic factors. The risk of developing cancer increases if there is a family medical history of cancer.

Stomach cancer can also occur in people who have certain genetic mutations, such as those in the CDH1 or pepsinogen genes. Individuals who have these genetic mutations are more likely to develop stomach cancer.

2.  Helicobacter Pylori Bacteria

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacterium found in the human stomach. This bacterium can cause stomach and duodenum infections, as well as increase the risk of stomach cancer.

This type of bacteria can cause stomach lining inflammation, which can lead to abnormal stomach cells and, eventually, stomach cancer.

3.  Unhealthy Diet

An unhealthy diet such as a high-fat diet, red meat and smoked or preserved foods can increase the risk of stomach cancer. A low-fibre diet can also lead to stomach cancer.

In addition, habits of excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption can also contribute to an increased risk of stomach cancer.

4.  Smoking

Smoking is one of the important causes of stomach cancer. Chemicals in cigarettes can damage stomach cells and increase the risk of stomach cancer. Heavy smokers have a higher risk of stomach cancer than non-smokers.

5.  Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the tissue in the stomach. This can alter the structure of stomach cells. These modifications will cause healthy stomach cells to become cancerous.

According to a few studies, the amount of alcohol consumed increases the risk of developing stomach cancer. More than two glasses of alcohol per day have been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.

6.  Age

Age also plays a role in the risk of stomach cancer. The vast majority of stomach cancer occurs in people over the age of 50. The risk of stomach cancer rises with age as well.

As a result, older people must take precautions to maintain their health and monitor for signs of stomach cancer.

7.  Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals

Stomach cancer can also be caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals such as asbestos or chemicals found in the petroleum and chemical processing industries.

These chemicals can be found in food, the environment and drinking water. If someone is exposed to these chemicals for an extended period of time, the risk of developing stomach cancer increases.

8.  Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to the risk of stomach cancer. Studies show that individuals who experience constant emotional stress have a higher risk of developing stomach cancer. This may be due to the influence of stress and anxiety on the digestive system.

9.  Obesity

Obesity can also increase the chances of developing stomach cancer. People with a high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop this cancer. This could be due to poor eating habits and a lack of physical activity.

10.  Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious anemia has also been linked to stomach cancer. This is a condition in where the body does not have enough vitamin B12. This condition can harm stomach cells as well as the surrounding cells. This condition, if left untreated, can lead to stomach cancer.

11.  Stomach Disease

Individuals with a history of stomach diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are at higher risk of developing stomach cancer.

GERD is a condition that occurs when stomach acid leaks into the throat or oesophagus. This condition can cause inflammation in the throat and oesophagus, as well as pain and discomfort in the chest and abdomen. When this condition occurs on a regular basis, it raises the risk of stomach cancer.

Reducing Your Risk

It is critical to take precautions to reduce the risk of stomach cancer. Here are some ways that can help reduce your risk:

1.  Adopt a Balanced Diet

A well-balanced, healthy diet can help lower the risk of stomach cancer. Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein such as skinless chicken or fish.

Reduce your intake of fatty, spicy or fried foods as it can increase the risk of stomach cancer.

2.  Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol and smoking are major risk factors for stomach cancer. Avoid drinking alcohol or limit it to one or two glasses per day. Quit smoking as well, as it can increase your risk of stomach cancer and other types of cancer.

3.  Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of stomach cancer. As a result, maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and getting enough physical activity.

4.  Lead a Healthy Lifestyle

Practise a healthy lifestyle by exercising, getting enough sleep and reducing stress in your life. This can aid in the prevention of stomach cancer and other diseases.

5.  Discuss With Your Doctor

If you have a family history of stomach cancer or symptoms of stomach cancer such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or difficulty eating, consult a doctor right away. You should also have regular check-ups to keep your health in check.

How Cancer Affects Daily Life

Stomach cancer can impact a person's daily life in several ways, including:

1. Physical Health

Stomach cancer can have a significant impact on a person's physical health. Common symptoms include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Those with stomach cancer may also experience a loss of appetite, sudden weight loss and prolonged fatigue.

Additionally, stomach cancer can increase the risk of bowel obstruction and gastric emptying. All of these factors can lead to serious health problems and affect a person's daily life.

2. Social Life

Stomach cancer can also have an impact on a person's social life. Those suffering from stomach cancer may require difficult treatments such as chemotherapy and surgery.

These treatments can be time-consuming and have an impact on their quality of life. They may have to leave their jobs, lose income and struggle to maintain social relationships.

Stomach cancer can also affect a person's self-confidence and make them feel embarrassed or depressed.

3. Emotional Well-being

Stomach cancer can also affect a person's emotional well-being. Those suffering from stomach cancer may experience a variety of emotions, including fear, sadness and anxiety. They may also experience feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Cancer treatment can also cause stress and fatigue, which can have an impact on a person's mental health. As a result, it is critical to provide emotional support to those suffering from stomach cancer in order to help them face these challenges.

^{Take Preventive Steps Today}

As awareness of stomach cancer is increasing among the public, it is important for us to take preventive steps starting today.

Undergo early screening to detect stomach cancer at an early stage and increase your chances of recovery. By taking appropriate steps, your health and well-being can be protected for a long time.

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