Why Gastric Ulcers May Lead to Stomach Cancer

Generally, the main causes by which gastric ulcers may lead to gastric cancer include repeated damage and repair of gastric mucosa, abnormal gastric acid secretion, Helicobacter pylori infection, gastric ulcers combined with intestinal metaplasia of gastric mucosa, and long-term non-healing gastric ulcers. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely consultation at a regular hospital is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Repeated Damage and Repair of Gastric Mucosa

Gastric ulcers can cause damage to the surface tissue of the gastric mucosa. During the healing process, frequent cell division and proliferation may lead to gene mutations, which could potentially induce the formation of cancer cells. In daily life, consumption of spicy or excessively hot foods should be avoided to reduce irritation to the gastric mucosa. Smoking should be stopped and alcohol consumption limited to reduce the risk of mucosal damage.

2. Abnormal Gastric Acid Secretion

Patients with gastric ulcers often experience excessive gastric acid secretion. Too much gastric acid continuously irritates the ulcerated areas of the gastric mucosa, damaging the mucosal barrier. Long-term effects may lead to abnormal proliferation of mucosal cells, increasing the risk of cancerous changes. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, and lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets can be used to inhibit gastric acid secretion and reduce mucosal irritation.

3. Helicobacter pylori Infection

Infection with Helicobacter pylori is a common cause of gastric ulcers. This bacterium damages the gastric mucosa and causes chronic inflammation. Long-term infection can lead to uncontrolled proliferation of gastric mucosal cells, which may subsequently induce gastric cancer. Under a doctor's guidance, quadruple therapy can be adopted, such as combining amoxicillin capsules, clarithromycin tablets, potassium bismuth citrate capsules, and esomeprazole magnesium enteric-coated tablets to eradicate Helicobacter pylori.

4. Gastric Ulcers Combined with Intestinal Metaplasia of Gastric Mucosa

Intestinal metaplasia of the gastric mucosa refers to the replacement of gastric mucosal cells by intestinal-type epithelial cells. This pathological change often accompanies gastric ulcers and is considered a precancerous lesion that may progress to gastric cancer. Regular gastroscopic examinations are necessary to monitor the lesion, and under medical guidance, drugs such as compound digestive enzyme capsules, domperidone tablets, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets can be used to improve gastric function.

5. Long-Term Non-Healing Gastric Ulcers

Large ulcers with a disease course exceeding two months that remain unhealed for a long time may undergo malignant transformation of mucosal cells at the ulcer margins due to chronic inflammatory stimulation. When drug treatment proves ineffective, surgical treatment such as partial gastrectomy can be considered to remove the diseased tissue and prevent cancer development.

In daily life, regular meal times should be maintained, avoiding overeating and drinking. A bland and easily digestible diet should be chosen, avoiding hard or cold foods. Maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive mental stress is important. Regular gastroscopic follow-ups should be conducted to promptly detect and manage any abnormalities.