Can You Get Stomach Cancer Without H. pylori?

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is influenced by a combination of environmental, dietary, and infectious factors. While Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a well-known risk factor, it is not the sole cause of this disease. Below are key elements that contribute to the development of stomach cancer:

Environmental and Dietary Influences Play a Major Role
Studies have shown that environmental and dietary habits significantly affect stomach cancer risk. For example, Japanese immigrants to the U.S. experienced a notable decrease in gastric cancer rates across generations. The first generation saw a 25% drop, the second a 50% decline, and by the third generation, their risk was comparable to that of native Americans. This shift highlights the importance of external factors such as soil composition, water quality, and dietary habits. Areas with volcanic rock, high peat soil content, excessive nitrates in water, imbalanced trace elements, or chemical pollution may contribute to the development of gastric cancer through long-term dietary exposure.

Healthy Eating Habits Can Lower the Risk
Epidemiological studies suggest that a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing stomach cancer. On the other hand, consuming moldy foods, processed meats, and excessive salt increases the risk. These dietary patterns can damage the gastric lining over time and promote the formation of cancerous cells.

Nitrate-Rich Diets Can Lead to Carcinogenic Reactions
Long-term consumption of foods high in nitrates can lead to the accumulation of these compounds in the stomach. When combined with other substances, nitrates may form nitrosamines—potent carcinogens. Conditions such as chronic gastritis, partial stomach removal, or reduced acid production create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, further increasing the risk of cancer development.

Age-Related Changes Also Contribute
As people age, glands in the digestive system may shrink or become less active, leading to slower digestion and increased bacterial growth in the stomach. This can promote the production of cancer-causing substances like nitrosamines, which damage the gastric mucosa over time and potentially lead to malignant transformation.

H. pylori Infection Is One of Several Risk Factors
Although Helicobacter pylori infection is strongly linked to stomach cancer, especially in regions where both infection rates and cancer incidence are high, it is important to note that not everyone infected with H. pylori will develop cancer. However, chronic infection can lead to long-term inflammation and cellular changes in the stomach lining, increasing the risk significantly.