What causes gastrointestinal cancer

The occurrence of gastrointestinal cancer is related to the combined effects of genetics, environmental factors, physical diseases and lifestyle. Specific causes include genetic factors, improper eating habits, smoking and drinking, Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term chronic disease stimulation, etc., and attention should be paid to and preventive measures should be taken as soon as possible.

1) The role of genetic factors

Gastrointestinal cancer has a certain family clustering. If a direct relative has gastrointestinal cancer, the individual's risk of developing the disease is higher. This may be related to gene mutations or common family living habits. For this high-risk group, regular gastroscopy screening should be performed, especially after the age of 40, to detect abnormalities early.

2) Diet and lifestyle factors

Long-term consumption of pickled foods, smoked foods, excessive salt intake and other bad eating habits will lead to the accumulation of nitrites and other carcinogens, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. Habits such as smoking and alcoholism are also closely related to the occurrence of gastrointestinal cancer. It is recommended to eat less pickled foods, consume more fresh fruits and vegetables and foods rich in dietary fiber, and reduce tobacco and alcohol intake to reduce the probability of cancer.

3) Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori is one of the main causes of gastric cancer. It can cause chronic gastritis and gastric ulcers. Long-term irritation of the gastric mucosa may develop into gastric cancer. Once Helicobacter pylori infection is confirmed, antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors can be used for treatment under the guidance of a doctor, such as amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and omeprazole.

4) Long-term chronic diseases

Patients with chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, gastric polyps and intestinal inflammatory diseases are more likely to develop gastrointestinal cancer. Long-term recurrence of these diseases can cause pathological changes in the gastric mucosa and even cancer. Regular follow-up and treatment of chronic diseases can effectively reduce the risk, especially for patients with gastric polyps, who should try to choose resection to avoid the risk of cancer.

5) Environmental and chemical exposure

Long-term exposure to certain chemicals, such as industrial toxins in the environment or additives in food, can also increase the likelihood of illness. You need to take precautions at work, avoid contact with environments containing carcinogens, and pay attention to food quality and safety.

In order to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal cancer, everyone should pay attention to their daily diet and healthy lifestyle, do a good job in early prevention of high-risk factors, and develop a good habit of regular health check-ups to promptly detect and intervene in possible health risks. Maintaining a healthy life starts with action.