Duodenal Ulcers and Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know

Many people wonder whether duodenal ulcers can lead to cancer. The good news is that, according to medical research, approximately 99.9% of duodenal ulcers do not become cancerous. This is in contrast to gastric (stomach) ulcers, which do carry a small risk of malignancy over time.

Why Gastric Ulcers Pose a Cancer Risk

Gastric ulcers are primarily caused by prolonged exposure to stomach acid, often combined with irritation from food or medication. In some cases, chronic inflammation from Helicobacter pylori infection can lead to cellular changes in the stomach lining, increasing the risk of gastric cancer. For this reason, doctors typically recommend regular endoscopic monitoring and biopsies to detect any precancerous changes early.

What Makes Duodenal Ulcers Different?

Duodenal ulcers, specifically those located in the duodenal bulb, are mostly caused by excessive stomach acid reaching the upper part of the small intestine. Other contributing factors include bile reflux, high stress levels, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. Unlike gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers are not associated with an increased risk of cancer.

Medical Monitoring and Duodenal Ulcers

Because duodenal ulcers are not considered precancerous, they do not require routine endoscopic surveillance or biopsies. However, it's still important to treat them properly to prevent complications such as bleeding, perforation, or obstruction. Treatment usually involves acid-reducing medications and lifestyle modifications.

If you've been diagnosed with a duodenal ulcer, it's natural to feel concerned. However, current medical evidence strongly indicates that these ulcers are benign and do not progress to cancer. That said, if you have a gastric ulcer, your doctor will likely recommend follow-up exams to ensure it heals properly and to rule out any malignant changes.