Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Causes and risk factors of stomach cancer, including H. pylori.
Stomach cancer (gastric cancer) begins when cells in the stomach lining grow out of control. The exact trigger in any one person is often unclear, but several factors raise the risk. Having a risk factor does not mean a person will get cancer.
Helicobacter pylori infection This common stomach bacteria is the strongest known risk factor. Long-term infection causes chronic inflammation and, in some people, precancerous changes. Treating the infection lowers the risk.
Diet-related factors
Tobacco and alcohol Smoking roughly doubles the risk of stomach cancer, especially in the upper stomach. Heavy alcohol use adds risk.
Medical conditions
Genetic and other factors
Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Ayurveda describes chronic digestive disturbance and dosha imbalance leading to serious growths (Arbuda). This is a conceptual framework and does not identify cancer causes; modern risk factors above are the evidence-based ones.
When to see a doctor Long-standing indigestion, trouble swallowing, unintended weight loss, vomiting blood or black stools need prompt evaluation. Call 112 for severe bleeding or collapse.
Remember H. pylori infection, smoking and a salty, smoked diet are the main avoidable risks.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem
Explore more articles about this topic
Adenocarcinoma, GIST, lymphoma and other stomach cancer types.
Stomach cancer stages from early to advanced, in plain language.
Endoscopy, biopsy and scans that diagnose and stage stomach cancer.
Stomach cancer symptoms and the warning signs needing endoscopy.
Eating well before, during and after stomach cancer treatment.
How stomach cancer is treated: endoscopy, surgery, chemotherapy.
