Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is the fifth most common cancer around the world and the third leading cause of cancer-related death.

While the causes of stomach cancer are not yet fully understood, there are several factors that can increase an individual’s risk of developing the disease. However, there are also certain measures that people can take to lower their risk of stomach cancer. In this article, we will discuss some of the key steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing stomach cancer.

Understanding the Risk Factors

There are various factors that can increase an individual’s risk of developing stomach cancer. These include:.

A Diet High in Salt and Preserved Meat

Eating a diet high in salt and preserved meat has been shown to increase the risk of stomach cancer. Salt damages the stomach lining, leading to chronic inflammation, which can increase the likelihood of cancer.

Meanwhile, preserved meat such as salami, bacon, and sausage, contain high levels of nitrates and nitrites, which can also damage the stomach lining and lead to cancer.

Infection with Helicobacter Pylori

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can cause stomach infections and inflammation. People infected with H. pylori have an increased risk of developing stomach cancer. H.

pylori can be detected through a blood test or stool analysis, and treatment often involves a course of antibiotics.

Smoking

Smoking has long been linked with an increased risk of various types of cancer, including stomach cancer. Smoking causes damage to the DNA in cells in the stomach lining, leading to the development of cancer.

Genetic Factors

People with a family history of stomach cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves. Genetic mutations can play a role in the development of some types of stomach cancer.

Reducing Your Risk

While it is not always possible to eliminate all risk factors for stomach cancer, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of the disease:.

Eating a Healthy Diet

One of the key ways to reduce your risk of stomach cancer is to adopt a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in salt and preserved meat.

This type of diet provides the body with the nutrients and antioxidants it needs to maintain healthy cells and reduce the risk of cancer.

Quitting Smoking

If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of stomach cancer (not to mention the many other health benefits of quitting). Talk to your doctor about strategies for quitting smoking.

Treating H. Pylori Infections

If you are infected with H. pylori, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Treating the infection can reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, lowering your risk of developing stomach cancer.

Staying at a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese is another risk factor for stomach cancer. By maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, you can reduce your risk of developing the disease.

Regular Health Screenings

Regular screenings can help to detect stomach cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Talk to your doctor about appropriate screening tests based on your age, medical history, and risk factors for stomach cancer.

Conclusion

While stomach cancer can be a serious and life-threatening disease, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing it. Eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, treating H.

pylori infections, maintaining a healthy weight, and undergoing regular health screenings can all help to reduce the risk of stomach cancer. With these strategies, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk of developing this deadly disease.