An overview on factors underlying gastric cancer; strategies for its management with particular reference to diet

摘要

The incidence of stomach cancer and the number of victims of this disease have decreased dramatically over the\udlast 60 years. However, gastric cancer still remains a very serious disease that requires further studies to enlarge\udknowledge on its causes and to prevention methods. To date, the causes of gastric cancer are still not yet well\udknown but it is clear that some people are more prone than others to develop this disease. Gastric cancer affects\udmostly adults aged 55 and over and men in percentage double than women. Stomach ulcer apparently does not\udincrease the risk of gastric cancer however, Helicobacter pylori, usually due to inflammation and gastric ulcers, may\udbe an important risk factor for this disease. Moreover, patients who have undergone stomach surgery or suffering\udfrom pernicious anemia, achlorhydria or atrophic gastritis (that typically produce a reduction in the amount of acid)\udare subject to a higher risk of gastric cancer. Exposure in workplaces to certain agents such as dust or fumes is\udlinked to a higher risk than average of developing stomach cancer. Smoking also contributes to increase this risk.\udMoreover, epidemiological studies and animal models, conducted for years, have shown that some eating habits can\udincrease the risk of cancer. Other studies instead report that fresh foods (especially fruits and vegetables) play a\udprotective function against gastric cancer. For this reason, this paper provides an overview of the possible causes of\udgastric cancer and the different therapeutic approaches, focusing in particular on the effects of diet.