# What are the risk factors for stomach cancer?

Source: https://oncologyistanbul.com/answers/risk-factors-for-stomach-cancer
Last updated: 2026-07-13

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, several factors can raise the risk of stomach (gastric) cancer, although having them does not mean you will develop the disease. Long-term infection of the stomach lining with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a major risk factor. Others include chronic atrophic gastritis, older age, being male, and smoking, as well as a diet low in fruits and vegetables or high in salted, smoked, or poorly preserved foods. A family history of stomach cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions can also increase risk. This is general information, not personal medical advice.

## Verify at
- [Stomach (Gastric) Cancer — Causes and Risk Factors](https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/causes-risk-factors) — National Cancer Institute (NCI) (checked 2026-07-13)

Related: [Stomach cancer, explained](https://oncologyistanbul.com/cancers/conditions/stomach-cancer)