Stomach, or gastric, cancer is one of the most common types of cancer globally, and although its incidence varies by region, certain factors can significantly increase one’s risk. The disease develops in the lining of the stomach and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, it can form a mass (tumour) and grow deeper into the stomach walls. The tumour may spread to nearby organs like your liver and pancreas. So what causes stomach cancer? However, researchers and health experts don’t know exactly what makes cancer cells start growing in the stomach. But they do know a few things that can raise your risk for the disease. One of them is excessive salt intake. Excessive salt intake has been found to irritate the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to cancer-causing agents. Research suggests that high sodium levels can damage the stomach lining, leading to chronic inflammation and an increased vulnerability to cancer.
We got in touch with Dr Amit Javed, Director, Gastrointestinal Oncology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram who explains that salt can cause the stomach’s mucosal lining to break down, making it more susceptible to infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium strongly associated with stomach cancer. This chronic infection can lead to gastric ulcers, which, over time, may develop into cancerous lesions.
A 2019 study published in The Lancet found that diets high in salt were associated with a higher incidence of stomach cancer, particularly in countries where salt consumption is excessively high. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), salt intake should be limited to less than 5 grams per day to reduce cancer risk and other health issues like hypertension.
“Salty foods, such as preserved meats and pickled foods, may contain harmful substances like nitrates, which are also linked to stomach cancer. The combination of high salt levels and these substances can further elevate cancer risk. Maintaining a balanced diet with lower salt intake is crucial for reducing the chances of developing stomach cancer and promoting overall digestive health,” he said.
While there’s no guaranteed method to prevent it, Dr Amit shares several lifestyle changes and measures that can reduce the risk of stomach cancer. This includes:
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet is crucial for stomach health and overall well-being. Diets rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are associated with a lower risk of stomach cancer. Foods high in fibre and antioxidants help protect stomach cells from damage. Specifically, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, as well as fruits high in vitamin C, have cancer-fighting properties. Also, limit your intake of processed and smoked foods, such as cured meats and pickled items, as they contain nitrates and nitrites, which have been linked to stomach cancer.
2. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and heavy alcohol use are major risk factors for many types of cancer, including stomach cancer. Smoking damages the stomach lining and increases the risk of gastric cancer, especially in the upper part of the stomach near the oesophagus.
High alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer, as it can irritate the stomach lining and interact negatively with other risk factors.
3. Practice Good Food Safety
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a well-established risk factor for stomach cancer. This bacteria is often acquired through contaminated food or water and practising good food safety can help minimize the risk of infection. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoid undercooked or unpasteurized foods, and drink clean, filtered water.
4. Monitor and Manage Pre-existing Conditions
Certain conditions, such as chronic gastritis, and peptic ulcer disease, can increase the risk of gastric cancer. Regular check-ups can help detect early signs of abnormalities in the stomach lining. Early detection is essential, as precancerous changes in the stomach can sometimes be managed effectively if caught early.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight, particularly in the abdominal area, can increase acid reflux and irritation in the stomach lining, raising cancer risk over time. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help maintain a healthy weight, reducing the likelihood of stomach and other gastrointestinal cancers.
6. Consider Routine Screening if You’re High-Risk
In high-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of gastric cancer or other genetic predispositions, routine screenings like endoscopy can be a proactive way to monitor stomach health.
7. Limit the Use of NSAIDs and Painkillers
Frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of ulcers and, in some cases, stomach cancer. While these medications are generally safe when used as directed, chronic use or high doses can have adverse effects. If you need to take these medications regularly, consult your health expert about safer alternatives or protective measures.