Am I at risk of stomach cancer?
Most stomach cancers develop without an obvious cause. However, research has identified several things that can increase your risk.
This page will help you understand these risk factors, recognise potential warning signs, and know when to seek medical advice.
Risk factors for stomach cancer
Being over 60 years old and/or being male
Smoking tobacco, frequent alcohol use and not eating enough fruits and vegetables
Including infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, previous stomach surgery for other conditions, gastric polyps, pernicious anaemia, chronic gastritis or Epstein-Barr virus infection
Having close family members who have had stomach cancer
Like exposure to certain environmental factors, such as asbestos or workplace dusts
Important to know: Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you will develop stomach cancer. If you’re concerned about your risk, especially if you have H. pylori infection or a family history of stomach cancer, talk to your doctor.
Family history and genetic risk
Most people who develop stomach cancer do not have a family history of the disease. However, your risk may be slightly higher if close family members (such as parents or siblings) have had stomach cancer.
Rarely, stomach cancer can be linked to inherited genetic conditions, including:
- hereditary diffuse gastric cancer
- lynch syndrome
- familial adenomatous polyposis
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
If you have a strong family history of stomach cancer or an inherited condition, you may be referred to a familial cancer service or genetic counsellor.
They can review your personal and family history and discuss whether genetic testing might be appropriate for you.
Signs and symptoms to watch for
In many cases, stomach cancer causes no symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they can be similar to those caused by many other, less serious conditions like indigestion or a stomach bug.
You should see your GP if you experience:
- persistent indigestion or heartburn
- feeling full quickly when eating
- difficulty swallowing
- feeling sick or vomiting (which may include blood)
- loss of appetite
- losing weight without trying
- pain or discomfort in your upper abdomen
- feeling tired or weak
- black stools (poo) or blood in your stools
These symptoms are very common and are usually not caused by cancer. However, if you have symptoms that persist, worsen, or concern you, it’s important to see your GP for a check-up.
Preventing stomach cancer
There is no guaranteed way to prevent stomach cancer. However, you may be able to lower your risk by:
• maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and
regular exercise
• eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting processed foods
• quitting smoking
• limiting alcohol consumption
• managing chronic acid reflux or gastritis with your doctor’s help
• treating H. pylori infection if detected
• having regular check-ups if you have risk factors
Need more information?
If you’re concerned about your risk for stomach cancer, or if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms that worry you, it’s important to speak with your general practitioner.
Want to talk?
Speak to an upper GI cancer nurse or counsellor, we're here to provide you with the support you need. Support available to anyone impacted by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
