Can too much stress lead to tumors? Here’s what we know

Stomach cancer is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Read on to learn how stress, excess weight, and other sedentary activities can put your health at risk.

Nowadays there is better access and availability of processed foods, junk food etc. This has increasingly become a health problem leading to obesity, kidney problems, stomach cancer and other health complications. Stomach cancer is increasingly becoming a major health challenge in India. November is celebrated as Stomach Cancer Awareness Month and it is important to be aware of what we eat and the effects it can have on our bodies.

Risk factors for stomach cancer

Several everyday factors contribute to the alarming risk of stomach cancer. From diet to stress and lack of awareness. Dr. Jasmine Agarwal M.Ch. speaks exclusively to Indi.com. Surgical Oncology, MRCS Junior Consultant Department of Oncosurgery Ruby Hall Clinic Pune listed common causes that lead to tumor growth, the extent of which one may not understand.

1. Unhealthy eating habits: A diet high in processed foods, salty snacks, and low in fruits and vegetables significantly increases the risk of stomach cancer.
2. Helicobacter pylori infection: This common bacterial infection of the stomach lining is a major risk factor in India, often associated with poor sanitation and hygiene.
3. Smoking and drinking alcohol: Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption have been proven to contribute to the development of stomach cancer.
4. Rising Obesity Rates: Increasing obesity in the population is associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer.
5. Genetic susceptibility: A family history of stomach cancer or genetic predispositions may make certain people more susceptible.
6. Chronic stress: Stress and stomach cancer are not directly related. It’s just the impact of prolonged and unmanaged stress that leads to poor health decisions, which in turn can increase the risk of cancer. Long-term stress can negatively impact overall health and often lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices such as poor eating habits and substance abuse, which increase the risk of cancer.
7. Low awareness: A significant proportion of the population is still unaware of early symptoms and risk factors, leading to late diagnoses when treatment options are limited.
8. Environmental pollution: Exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants also contributes to increasing the risk of stomach cancer.

“From the development of antibiotics and potential vaccines against Helicobacter pylori infections to the introduction of targeted therapies and immunotherapies, pharmaceutical companies are driving advances in both treatment and early detection,” says Dr. Aravind Badiger, technical director of BDR Pharmaceuticals. Gastric cancer requires a multifaceted approach combining lifestyle modifications, public awareness and robust pharmaceutical interventions.