Prevention of stomach cancer

Not all stomach cancer can be prevented, but several strong risk factors are within reach, and some precancerous conditions can be found and watched.

Treat H. pylori If you have long-standing indigestion or a family history of stomach cancer, ask about H. pylori testing. Treating the infection with antibiotics reduces cancer risk.

Eat for lower risk

• Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Cut down on salted, smoked and pickled foods
• Limit processed and red meats
• Store grains and nuts dry to avoid mold
• Use refrigeration instead of heavy salting for preservation

Do not smoke, and limit alcohol Quitting smoking lowers the risk of stomach and many other cancers. Avoid heavy alcohol use.

Maintain a healthy weight Obesity raises the risk of cancers near the food pipe junction. Regular activity and balanced food help.

Care for precancerous conditions

• Chronic atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia and certain polyps need regular endoscopic monitoring.
• People with strong family history or known inherited syndromes should get specialist advice; some may need regular endoscopy or, rarely, preventive surgery.
• Treat long-standing reflux.

General health Regular exercise, sleep and not ignoring persistent digestive symptoms all help catch problems early.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Traditional dietary and lifestyle advice aligns with general prevention, but it cannot guarantee prevention and must not replace endoscopy for persistent symptoms.

When to see a doctor Persistent indigestion, weight loss, trouble swallowing or a strong family history. Call 112 for heavy bleeding or collapse.

Remember Treat H. pylori, eat fresh rather than smoked and salty food, and never smoke.