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Stomach Cancer Risk In Men And Women: Who Is More Vulnerable And Why?

Though stomach cancer often shows few symptoms in early stages, recognising its signs early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes for both men and women. If you notice any warning signs, seek medical advice promptly.

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Written By: Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 13, 2024 3:59 PM IST

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Medically Verified By: Dr Jaskaran Singh Sethi, senior consultant and chief of GI, HPB and pediatric radiation oncology services at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC)

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Ongoing discomfort or pain in the stomach area, often associated with gastritis, could signal underlying cancer. (Photo: Freepik)

Stomach cancer risk in men and women: Often referred to as a 'silent killer', stomach cancer or gastric cancer is a fatal disease. Its early symptoms are subtle and most patients usually dismiss them as common digestive issues. This is why there is a delay in diagnosis and subsequent treatment. The absence of standardised screening methods further contributes to the high mortality rate associated with the disease, warns Dr Jaskaran Singh Sethi, senior consultant and chief of GI, HPB and pediatric radiation oncology services at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC). The doctor adds that stomach cancer ranks as the fifth most-common cancer among men, and seventh among women in the country. "Men are up to five times more likely to develop stomach cancer than women," he says.

Why Are Men More Susceptible To Stomach Cancer?

According to Dr Jaskaran, the presence of estrogen in women makes a lot of difference -- it plays a protective role. "Estrogen helps reduce inflammation, inhibits the growth of cancerous cells, and boosts the immune system, all of which lower the risk of stomach cancer. In contrast, male hormones like testosterone may increase susceptibility," the expert explains.

Helicobacter Pylori Infection And Stomach Cancer Risk

The doctor further states that while H. pylori infection is a major cause of stomach cancer in both men and women, estrogen helps mitigate its harmful effects, offering additional protection to women.

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Key Factors Driving The Risk Of Stomach Cancer

Here are some important things that both men and women should know:

  1. Dietary habits: Diets rich in processed meats, sodium, and low in fruits and vegetables can significantly raise the risk of stomach cancer. Smoked foods, laden with harmful nitrites and nitrates, are particularly dangerous.
  2. Genetics and family history: A family history of stomach cancer or inherited conditions, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome, can significantly raise the likelihood of developing the disease. In some cases, genetic mutations may lead to cancer at a younger age.
  3. Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for stomach cancer, with harmful chemicals in tobacco wreaking havoc in the stomach lining and increasing vulnerability to cancer.
  4. Environmental exposure: Environmental factors like air pollution and exposure to carcinogenic chemicals are significant contributors to the rising rates of stomach cancer, especially among younger populations.

Warning Signs Of Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer can be difficult to detect early, but being aware of certain symptoms can help with timely diagnosis. Watch for the following signs:

  1. Vomiting blood: Hematemesis, or vomiting blood, is a severe symptom that indicates internal bleeding, often requiring urgent medical attention.
  2. Unexplained weight loss: Significant, unexplained weight loss may be due to the body's inability to properly absorb nutrients, a result of stomach cancer.
  3. Stomach discomfort or pain: Ongoing discomfort or pain in the stomach area, often associated with gastritis, could signal underlying cancer.
  4. Feeling full quickly: A sensation of fullness after eating very little could indicate a problem with the stomach's digestive function.
  5. Chronic heartburn (GERD): Persistent acid reflux, or GERD, over time may increase the risk of stomach cancer and should be monitored.
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Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.

Prerna Mittra

Prerna Mittra

With more than a decade of experience in journalism, this author writes on health and lifestyle topics, from pregnancy to mental health, diseases, fitness, parenting, and such. Previous work experience includes The Indian Express, Network18 Group, Times Of India. For ... Read More