How can I prevent stomach cancer?

There is no definitive cause of stomach cancer so far, but factors that can increase the risk have been found. That abnormal cell that grows in the stomach develops changes in its DNA, this DNA is what tells the cell what to do. Therefore, the cell grows progressively and continues to live while healthy cells die. The remaining cells with DNA changes form a tumor that can invade, destroy healthy tissue and metastasize to other body parts.

The risk factors that have been identified that increase the chances of developing stomach cancer are:

• Prolonged inflammation of the stomach (gastritis).
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Obesity
• Diet high in smoked and salty foods
• Diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Helicobacter pylori infection
• Smoking
• Gastric polyps
• Family history of stomach cancer

There are measures we can take to have healthy lifestyle habits and prevent stomach cancer. Keep in mind the following:

• Maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor to find healthy strategies to lose weight according to your metabolism.
• Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Avoid salty and smoked foods in your diet.
• If you smoke, quit. In addition to increasing the risk of stomach cancer, you may also develop other types of cancer.
• Consult your doctor about your risk of gastric cancer. People with a family history or risk factors should be evaluated.

Always remember that early diagnosis and prevention will prevent you from going through the process of suffering from this disease.