Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, occurs when cells in the stomach begin to grow abnormally and multiply without control. While stomach cancer can affect anyone, age is a significant factor in its development.
Age as a Primary Factor
The risk of developing stomach cancer increases noticeably with age, making it more common in older adults. While rare in younger individuals, the incidence rates begin to rise after age 50. Most diagnoses typically occur in people over 60 or 70 years old. The average age of diagnosis is around 68, though some patients are diagnosed in their 40s and 50s.
This age-related increase in risk is partly due to the cumulative exposure to various risk factors over a person’s lifetime. Although stomach cancer rates have generally decreased in many countries, there has been a recent trend of increasing cases in people younger than 50, particularly among women. This early-onset gastric cancer sometimes presents at more advanced stages.
Additional Risk Factors
Beyond age, several other factors can increase the likelihood of developing stomach cancer. A significant risk factor is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which can cause long-term inflammation and changes in the stomach lining. While many people carry H. pylori, most do not develop stomach cancer.
Dietary habits also play a role, with a higher risk associated with diets rich in smoked, salted, or pickled foods. Conversely, diets low in fresh fruits and vegetables may increase risk. Smoking tobacco approximately doubles the risk of stomach cancer, and regular consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day can also contribute. Obesity is another factor that raises the risk for certain types of stomach cancer.
Certain chronic stomach conditions, such as chronic atrophic gastritis (long-term inflammation of the stomach lining) and pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition leading to vitamin B12 deficiency, are also linked to an increased risk. A family history of stomach cancer can also indicate a higher risk, suggesting shared risk factors like diet or H. pylori infection within families, or, in rare cases, inherited genetic mutations.
Symptoms and Early Diagnosis
Stomach cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making early detection challenging. When symptoms do appear, they can be vague and resemble those of less serious conditions like indigestion or heartburn.
Common symptoms include persistent indigestion, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Individuals might also experience a loss of appetite, feeling full after eating only a small amount of food, or unexplained weight loss. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more pronounced, potentially including difficulty swallowing, fatigue, or black stools due to bleeding.
If stomach cancer is suspected, diagnosis typically involves an upper endoscopy. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted down the throat to visualize the stomach lining. If any suspicious areas are observed, a tissue sample, known as a biopsy, is taken and examined under a microscope for cancer cells. Additional tests, such as endoscopic ultrasound or CT scans, may be used to determine how far the cancer has spread.
Preventative Measures
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer, several measures can help reduce the risk. Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is beneficial, as these foods contain compounds that may protect against cancer. Limiting the intake of highly processed, smoked, and heavily salted foods, as well as red and processed meats, is also recommended.
Maintaining a healthy body weight through balanced caloric intake and regular physical activity can lower the risk. Quitting smoking is an important step, as tobacco use increases stomach cancer risk. Additionally, moderating alcohol consumption, particularly avoiding three or more alcoholic drinks per day, may also reduce risk. If a person has H. pylori infection, discussing testing and potential treatment with a healthcare professional can be a consideration, especially if other risk factors are present.