How can I decrease my risk of having stomach cancer?

• If you have multiple family members with stomach cancer, consider getting genetic testing.
• Eat a mostly plant-based diet consisting of deeply pigmented fruits and vegetables. Avoid excessive consumption of smoked or preserved meats.
• Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco.
• If you have symptoms such as abdominal pain, blood in the stool, anemia, feeling full faster, nausea, vomiting or unexplained weight loss, seek medical attention from a gastroenterologist who will examine the inside of your stomach with an instrument called an endoscope—the best way to diagnose stomach cancer.

Limiting alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption may increase the risk of certain cancers. Alcohol irritates the gastric mucosa and chronic (long-term) irritation may lead to cancer. This is particularly true if the individual has a close relative, such as a parent, child or sibling, with cancer.

Chemical exposure: If the individual works with chemicals, such as is the case with hairdressers, printers, and painters, he/she should follow all safety instructions to avoid exposure. If an individual has his/her own well for water, he/she may wish to have it tested for contaminants such as lead and arsenic. Local health departments can be a source of water testing. Nitrates and nitrites are nitrogen-based chemicals that are added to certain foods, especially cured meats such as ham, bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats. Both nitrates and nitrites combine with other nitrogen-containing substances in the stomach to form N-nitroso compounds - carcinogens that are known to cause stomach cancer. Salted, smoked, or pickled foods and red meat often contain large amounts of nitrites and nitrates. Countries where consumption of salted meat and fish and pickled vegetables is high, such as Japan and Korea, tend to have correspondingly high rates of stomach cancer. Eating a diet high in red meat, especially when the meat is barbecued or well-done, has also been linked to stomach cancer.

Fruits, vegetables and whole grains: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which may help protect from developing various types of cancer. Eating five or more servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day is important for health. A variety of produce should be included in the individual's diet such as kale, chard, spinach, dark green lettuce, peppers, and squashes.

Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of cancer. Cigarette smoking is the most significant and avoidable risk factor for cancer of the pancreas. It is responsible for 20-30% of pancreatic cancers. Tobacco use also increases the risk of developing cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx (voice box), esophagus, kidney, bladder, and some other organs.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.