- There is no hard evidence that links stomach cancer to any one cause. There is ongoing research to determine the actual causes of stomach cancer. However, there are certain things that put you at a higher risk for developing stomach cancer.
- Even though the cause of stomach cancer is unknown, there are things like age, weight, diet and sex that can put you at a higher risk of developing stomach cancer. These higher risks include being older than 50 years old; being a man; being overweight; smoking or drinking in excess; eating too many foods that are preserved by smoking, salting or pickling; having Type A blood; having a family member with stomach cancer; having stomach surgery; having stomach polyps, having pernicious anemia; or having a stomach infection caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
- Stomach cancer is usually treatable, but is often mistaken for other gastrointestinal problems like heartburn. However, if you are vomiting regularly after meals or have bloody stool, it might be an indication that you have stomach cancer. The only way to know for sure is to go to the doctor and have him run tests. This is the best option if you think you have stomach cancer.
