A risk factor increases your chances of developing cancer. Modifying the following risk factors may help reduce your risk of stomach cancer.
General Guidelines
The general guidelines for helping reduce your risk of stomach cancer include the following:
Stop Smoking
A significant number of cases of stomach cancer may be associated with smoking. If you are a smoker, you should do everything within your power to stop. You are risking stomach cancer, as well as many other kinds of serious disease. Contact your doctor to see if you can use an alternative nicotine delivery system (nicotine patch, nicotine gum), hypnotherapy, or group support to help you make this difficult but important lifestyle change.
For more information on quitting smoking,
click here
.
Stop Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol may be a risk factor for stomach cancer. If you are a heavy drinker, consult with your doctor on methods that can help you stop drinking.
Get Treatment for Other Stomach Conditions
H. pylori
infection, chronic atrophic gastritis, and other chronic stomach conditions have been associated with an increased risk of developing stomach cancer. If you have any of these conditions, get medical treatment and follow through on medical recommendations for treatment.
Avoid Exposure to Stomach Cancer-causing Chemicals
You may have a higher-than-normal risk of developing stomach cancer if you work with heavy metals, rubber, or asbestos. If you must work with these substances, find out how to best protect yourself from exposure to the chemicals you’ll be around. Check with the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
or the
Environmental Protection Agency
for protective guidelines.
Talk to Your Doctor About the Benefits of Aspirin
Some studies have found a link between
aspirin
use and reduced rates of cancer in the lower stomach . Since taking aspirin can have side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, talk to your doctor before deciding to start aspirin therapy.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
More and more studies imply that diet can play a role in the prevention of cancer. Check with your doctor or see a registered dietitian (RD) to learn how to eat a diet:
- High in fiber, fruits, and vegetables
- Low in in saturated fats and meats
Furthermore, since stomach cancer has been associated with smoked, salted, and pickled foods, it would be wise to cut down on these foods as much as possible.