Strategies for Avoiding Stomach Cancer: Exploring Lifestyle Changes, Medications, and More
Stomach cancer, a disease that affects thousands of individuals each year, is a concern that many people have. Fortunately, research has shown that there are several preventive measures and lifestyle changes that can help lower the risk of developing this cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), new cases of stomach cancer have been decreasing by about 1.5% every year for the last 10 years. This decline could be attributed to increased awareness and the adoption of healthier lifestyles.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of stomach cancer is by eradicating Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a major cause of the disease. Treating this bacterial infection with antibiotics may help prevent changes in the stomach lining, potentially reducing the risk of stomach cancer.
Dietary modifications also play a significant role in stomach cancer prevention. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, citrus fruits, green tea, whole grain cereals, foods that contain allium compounds, such as garlic, leeks, and onions, and foods rich in carotenoids, such as kale, spinach, carrots, and tomatoes, may help reduce the risk.
Limiting intake of processed and red meats, particularly those high in salt and nitrates, is also advisable. These foods are linked to increased stomach cancer risk. On the other hand, maintaining a balanced, nutrient-dense diet supports antioxidant intake, potentially lowering cancer-promoting oxidative stress.
Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity are also crucial in reducing cancer risk overall. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean, MIND, or DASH diet, can help a person reach or maintain a moderate weight.
Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use is equally important. Regular alcohol use may increase a person's risk of stomach cancer, with the evidence of alcohol's impact being strongest in those who have three or more alcoholic beverages per day.
It's also worth noting that people with close family members who have experienced stomach cancer may be at a higher risk of developing the disease. In some cases, a person may be at significantly increased risk if they have family members with a genetic syndrome called hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC).
Early detection through regular medical screenings also plays a key role in improving outcomes and reducing stomach cancer incidence. If you experience difficulty swallowing, digestive symptoms that do not improve after 3 weeks, or other symptoms of stomach cancer that worsen or do not improve after 3 weeks, it's important to contact a doctor.
In conclusion, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including dietary modifications, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use, and receiving treatment for H. pylori infection if necessary, can help reduce the risks of some modifiable factors for stomach cancer. Regular screenings and early detection can further improve outcomes.
