How Long Does It Take for Chronic Gastritis to Develop into Stomach Cancer?

Chronic gastritis, particularly chronic atrophic gastritis, has a certain potential to develop into cancer. Although the risk is relatively low, it is estimated that approximately 0.5% to 1% of cases may progress to gastric cancer over time.

There are two main types of chronic gastritis: non-atrophic gastritis and atrophic gastritis. Non-atrophic gastritis is generally considered not to have a significant risk of malignancy. However, chronic atrophic gastritis is recognized as a precancerous condition. The decision on how frequently to perform follow-up endoscopies depends largely on the histopathological findings from the initial biopsy.

For patients diagnosed with mild atrophic gastritis without intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia, doctors often recommend repeating the endoscopy every one to two years. If moderate to severe atrophy is present along with intestinal metaplasia, more frequent monitoring—every six months to one year—is typically advised. In cases where severe intestinal metaplasia or high-grade dysplasia is detected, immediate intervention through surgery or endoscopic treatment may be necessary.

It's important for individuals with chronic gastritis to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding irritants like alcohol and spicy foods, and managing stress can help reduce symptoms and slow disease progression. Additionally, if Helicobacter pylori infection is present, eradication therapy is strongly recommended to lower the risk of further complications, including cancer.

Regular medical check-ups and endoscopic surveillance play a crucial role in early detection and prevention. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to create a personalized monitoring plan based on their specific diagnosis and risk factors.