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Cancer Types

Educating Patients on Stomach Cancer Risk Factors and Causes in CT, MD, and NJ

Early detection of cancer is important to ensuring timely, effective treatment. Since stomach cancer is relatively uncommon and is associated with symptoms similar to those of other ailments, it’s important to understand its risk factors and potential causes.

Regional Cancer Care Associates offers a highly trained staff, state-of-the-art tools, and years of experience and knowledge that we apply to detecting and treating cancer. We’re here to help you understand stomach cancer causes and your diagnosis, and our expert oncologists will develop an effective treatment plan designed around you and your needs.

Doctor Explaining Treatment To PatientWhat Causes Stomach Cancer?

Scientists don’t yet have a clear understanding of the causes of stomach cancer, but several risk factors have been identified. Some of these risk factors can be changed, while others cannot. Either way, understanding the risk factors and how they fit into your life is important for mitigating the risk and detecting stomach cancer early. The risk factors include:

  • Age: The risk of stomach cancer is higher in people older than age 50 and increases past age 60.
  • Medical history: Your risk elevates if you have a family history of stomach cancer or personal history of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma, a type of stomach lymphoma, or another type of cancer.
  • Pre-existing conditions: Certain types of stomach polyps, infections from Helicobacter pylori bacteria, long-term inflammation (gastritis), and gastroesophageal reflux disease all may increase the risk of stomach cancer.
  • Lifestyle factors: If you smoke, are obese, or consume a diet high in salty and smoked foods or low in fruits and vegetables, you may be at higher risk.

Can Stomach Cancer Be Prevented?

Since the causes and risk factors of stomach cancer are not entirely understood, it is not possible to eliminate the risk. However, you can substantially mitigate your likelihood of developing stomach cancer by:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Following a diet high in fruits and vegetables
  • Reducing your intake of salty and smoked foods
  • Quit smoking – or never start

Consult your doctor if you have a family history of stomach cancer or believe that you are at a higher risk. The doctor might be able to provide personalized health tips to protect your stomach and can advise you on monitoring and testing for stomach cancer. While complete prevention is impossible, early detection and developing a robust treatment plan can promote the best possible outcome after a diagnosis.

Stomach Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment at Regional Cancer Care Associates

Understanding stomach cancer causes and risk factors are the first steps towards prevention and early detection. For unparalleled screening, diagnostic, and treatment services in Connecticut, Maryland, and New Jersey, look no further than Regional Cancer Care Associates. We offer patient-focused attention that allows you to make the best decisions for your or a loved one’s treatment. For more information, contact us today.