Causes
Who is more likely to get stomach cancer
Anyone can get stomach cancer. It's not always clear what causes it.
You might be more likely to get it if you:
- are over the age of 50
- are a man
- have a long-term infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) – read more about the link between H. pylori and stomach cancer on the Cancer Research UK website
- have certain stomach conditions, such as long-term, severe acid reflux, gastritis or a condition called pernicious anaemia, which affects your immune system
- have a brother, sister or parent who had stomach cancer
Many stomach cancers are also linked to lifestyle.
How to reduce your risk of getting stomach cancer
Do
try to quit smoking
try to lose weight if you are overweight
wear protective clothes and masks if you work in a job where you're exposed to harmful chemicals, such as in the rubber industry or coal mining
cut down on how much salt you eat
try to cut down on alcohol and avoid drinking more than 14 units a week
try to eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day
Important
It's important to get any symptoms of stomach cancer checked by a GP.
Even if you do not think you fit into any of the groups with a higher chance of getting it. Anyone can get stomach cancer.
Last Reviewed
11 January 2024
11 January 2024
