What are the causes of gastric cancer

The causes of gastric cancer are mainly genetic, environmental, and dietary factors. Understanding these factors can help us better prevent and deal with this disease.

1. Genetic factors: The occurrence of gastric cancer is related to heredity. If there is a gastric cancer patient in the family, the risk of other members getting the disease will be relatively increased. This is because certain gene mutations may be inherited in the family, resulting in an increased susceptibility of individuals to cancer. Although we cannot change our genetic background, we can reduce the risk through regular physical examinations and a healthy lifestyle.

2. Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacterium is one of the important factors leading to gastric cancer. It can cause chronic gastritis and increase the incidence of gastric ulcers. Long-term infection may lead to changes in the gastric mucosa and then develop into gastric cancer. Regular Helicobacter pylori testing and treatment when necessary can effectively reduce the risk of gastric cancer.

3. Dietary factors: Diet is closely related to gastric cancer. High-salt, pickled, smoked and grilled foods contain carcinogens such as nitrites. Long-term intake may increase the risk of gastric cancer. It is recommended to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and reduce the intake of pickled and grilled foods to maintain healthy eating habits.

4. Precancerous lesions: Chronic gastric ulcers, chronic atrophic gastritis, and gastric polyps are potential precursors to gastric cancer. If these lesions are not controlled, they may gradually deteriorate into cancer. Regular gastroscopy can help detect and treat these lesions early, thereby reducing the risk of cancer.

5. Bad living habits: Smoking and alcoholism are recognized risk factors for cancer. Harmful substances in tobacco can directly damage the gastric mucosa, while alcohol can indirectly increase the risk of gastric cancer by stimulating gastric acid secretion and damaging the gastric mucosa. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption is one of the effective measures to reduce the risk of gastric cancer.

6. Environmental factors: Pollutants in the living environment may also affect the occurrence of gastric cancer. Long-term exposure to certain chemicals or heavy metals may increase the risk of gastric cancer. Maintaining a good living environment and reducing exposure to harmful substances are important measures to prevent the disease.

The prevention of gastric cancer needs to start from multiple aspects, focusing on genetic factors, infection status, eating habits and lifestyle, etc. Regular physical examinations, healthy diet, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a good living environment can effectively reduce the incidence of gastric cancer. I hope this information can help everyone better understand the causes of gastric cancer and take active preventive measures.