4 habits to prevent stomach cancer

Stomach cancer occurs when there is abnormal and malignant growth of cells in the stomach. The disease has a high mortality rate, early symptoms are less characteristic, and progresses silently, making diagnosis late and treatment difficult.

According to MSc.BS.CKI Ngo Tuan Phuc, Oncology Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, changing a healthy lifestyle can help prevent stomach cancer.

Healthy diet

Eat lots of green vegetables and fresh fruits, especially citrus berries such as oranges and grapefruits, which help supplement antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene, contributing to protecting the stomach lining. Increase legumes to provide fiber and isoflavones to support stable digestion.

Prioritize healthy protein sources such as fish, poultry or beans instead of red meat and processed meat. Limit smoked foods, fried foods that are greasy, high in salt, and processed foods because they can contain substances that cause inflammation, irritate the stomach lining, and increase the risk of ulcers and cancer.

Keep a relaxed spirit and avoid stress

Prolonged stress affects the stomach by increasing the inflammatory response and irritating the digestive tract. Everyone should get enough sleep, practice deep breathing in the morning and before going to bed, combine gentle exercise, listen to music or relax to stay mentally relaxed.

Avoid exposure to toxic environments

According to Dr. Phuc, regular contact with asbestos and pesticides is harmful to health. When these substances enter the body, they damage the DNA of cells, promoting cancer formation. In case of forced contact with chemicals, it is necessary to wear full protective equipment and use a mask that meets dust and toxic gas filtering standards. At the same time, keep a well-ventilated living environment, clean indoor air, avoid overusing strong detergents and ensure use of clean water.

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise helps strengthen immunity, support digestion, reduce the risk of stomach cancer and many other types of cancer such as lung cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer… Each person should maintain exercise appropriate to their physical condition, at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

Besides adjusting lifestyle and nutrition, Dr. Phuc advises each person to have regular health checks. If infected with Helicobacter pylori (HP) bacteria, ulcers and gastritis, patients should go to the hospital for examination, treatment, and take medication as prescribed to control the disease and avoid complications.