Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer usually develops because of a mix of things over time. Often there is no single clear cause.

Lifestyle and health factors that can increase risk:

• Smoking

• Being overweight

• Diet over many years (for example, lots of very salty / processed foods)

Longer-term factors:

• H. pylori infection (a stomach infection)

• Long-term reflux or gastritis, or pernicious anaemia

• Getting older

• Close family history of stomach cancer

Having one or more risk factors does not mean someone will develop stomach cancer, it just means the chance may be higher.

You don’t need to panic, just notice what’s normal for you:

• Indigestion (including burping a lot), heartburn or acid reflux that doesn't improve after 3 weeks of usual treatment

• Feeling full very quickly when eating

• Feeling or being sick

• Problems swallowing

• Loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, or low energy

• A lump in your tummy

When to get advice

If you notice any of these symptoms contact your GP practice. For more information on symptoms and when to get help, see NHS guidance:

Tests for stomach cancer and next steps - NHS

For more information you can visit any of the links below.