About 90% of stomach cancer patients have been infected with Helicobacter pylori. Illustrated by Heho Health.

Stomach cancer is a serious digestive system disease associated with multiple risk factors. Helicobacter pylori infection is considered one of the primary high-risk factors, with about 90% of stomach cancer patients having been infected with Helicobacter pylori. Below is detailed information about the high-risk factors for stomach cancer and preventive measures:

High-Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer

1. Helicobacter pylori Infection:
• Helicobacter pylori is a common bacterium that can cause chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, and long-term infection may lead to stomach cancer.
• About 90% of stomach cancer patients have been infected with Helicobacter pylori, showing a strong correlation between the infection and stomach cancer.
2. Dietary Habits:
• High-Salt Diet: A high-salt diet can damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach cancer.
• Pickled and Smoked Foods: These foods contain nitrites and nitrosamines, which are closely associated with the occurrence of stomach cancer.

People with chronic gastritis or peptic ulcers have a higher risk of stomach cancer. Illustrated by Pexels.

Lack of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Vitamins and antioxidants in vegetables and fruits help protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of stomach cancer. 

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1. Smoking and Heavy Drinking:
• Smoking and excessive drinking can damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach cancer.
2. Family History:
• Having a family history of stomach cancer increases the risk.
3. Chronic Gastric Diseases:
• People with chronic gastritis or peptic ulcers have a higher risk of stomach cancer.
4. Age and Gender:
• The risk of stomach cancer increases with age.
• Men are at higher risk of developing stomach cancer than women. 

A high-salt diet can damage the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach cancer. Illustrated by Pexels.

Preventive Measures

1. Detection and Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection:
• Regular check-ups, including testing for Helicobacter pylori. If diagnosed, antibiotic treatment should be undertaken to eliminate the infection and reduce the risk of stomach cancer.
2. Healthy Diet:
• Reduce salt intake and avoid pickled and smoked foods.
• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure sufficient vitamins and antioxidants.
• Avoid overeating and maintain a balanced diet.
3. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption:
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can help protect the stomach lining and reduce cancer risk.
4. Regular Check-Ups:
• For those with a family history of stomach cancer or other high-risk factors, regular gastroscopy and related tests are recommended to detect and treat potential issues early.
5. Maintain Healthy Lifestyle Habits:
• Maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.
• Exercise regularly to boost the immune system.
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Conclusion Understanding and managing the high-risk factors for stomach cancer are crucial for prevention and early detection. Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the primary high-risk factors, so testing and treating this infection are vital for reducing the risk of stomach cancer. Additionally, healthy dietary habits, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and regular check-ups are effective preventive measures. Maintaining good lifestyle habits and proactive health management can significantly lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.