Stomach Cancer: Prevention & Reducing Risk
Stomach cancers are the FOURTH most common cancer types worldwide, and the SECOND leading causes of cancer death in the world. The American Cancer Society estimates 1 million new cases in the world each year, and more than 800,000 deaths annually. Last year alone, it was estimated that more than 10,000 Americans would die from stomach cancer. 1 in 114 men and women are at a lifetime risk of this deadly disease!
In recent years, some types of stomach cancer have declined, while other types ~ more difficult to detect early and more deadly ~ are on the rise.
What are the key risks for stomach cancer?
Some risks cannot be controlled, but others can be REDUCED by focusing on one’s health and choices. Look over the lists below and see what your risks and options might be….
| Behavioral / Lifestyle Risks | Risks for Personal Awareness |
| Smoking | Age greater than 50 |
| Obesity | Male gender |
| Diets rich in smoked, salted and pickled foods | Type A blood |
| Diets low in fresh fruits and vegetables | H. pylori bacterial infection |
| Family history (inherited cancers) | |
| Hispanic American, African American, Pacific Islanders or Asian ethnicity |
Key Prevention and Risk Reducing Facts
- Early detection is the key to surviving stomach cancer.
- Lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, can potentially reduce the risk of stomach cancer
- Treatment of H. pylori infection (a common bacterial infection of the stomach) can decrease the risk of stomach cancer development.
- Knowing your family history and discussing it with your healthcare provider can help determine if you are at risk for inherited cancer syndromes.
Stomach Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Early stage stomach cancer rarely causes symptoms, making early detection very difficult. Stomach cancer may or may not present with vague gastrointestinal symptoms. These symptoms can also be associated with other gastrointestinal illnesses, however, and should be discussed with a doctor who can perform tests to determine the cause of the symptoms
Signs and symptoms of stomach cancer can include:
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bloating
- Sense of fullness after eating small amounts of food (also called early satiety)
- Abdominal pain or vague discomfort in the abdomen, usually above the navel
- Heartburn, indigestion or ulcer-type symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting, with or without blood
Signs and symptoms should not be ignored. Most of these symptoms may be caused by things other than stomach cancer. They may also occur with other types of cancer. People who have any of these symptoms, especially if they don’t go away or get worse, should see their doctor to determine the cause and be treated.
Go with your gut!
If you feel that something isn’t right and you are not getting the answers you need…don’t give up. Be persistent. Continue to seek answers and don’t stop until you get them!
Action steps YOU can take to raise awareness and increase knowledge about stomach cancer
- Know the factors that put you at risk for stomach cancer.
- Know the signs and symptoms of stomach cancer.
- Know your family history.
- Be proactive. Talk with your doctor about your risks for cancer.
- Visit this site often for up-to-date information.
- Tell your family and friends what you are learning, and how to visit www.NoStomachForCancer.org
- Promote/sponsor an awareness event in your school, community, or at your place of work.
- Browse the ‘Support Us’ menu on this website to discovery the many ways to get involved!
