Can duodenal or gastric ulcers turn into stomach cancer?

Jun 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I was diagnosed with duodenal ulcer during a recent checkup and have been undergoing treatment since then. However, my symptoms seem to have worsened recently, and I am concerned about the possibility of cancerous changes. May I ask, can a duodenal peptic ulcer develop into stomach cancer?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
There is a possibility that duodenal and gastric ulcers may develop into gastric cancer, although the probability is relatively low. Specifically: 1. Duodenal ulcer: The risk of malignant transformation of duodenal ulcers is relatively low because the intestinal wall is thin, and complications such as bleeding or perforation often occur due to worsening ulcers before cancer develops. These complications usually lead to surgical removal of the lesion, thereby preventing malignant transformation. 2. Gastric ulcer: Unlike duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers have a slightly higher, though still relatively low, risk of malignancy. Clinically, there are indeed a small number of gastric ulcers that may progress to gastric cancer. Particularly for patients with long-standing gastric ulcers, persistent non-healing ulcers, poor response to medical treatment, and refractory symptoms, the risk of malignant transformation is relatively higher. 3. Precautions: Patients with duodenal or gastric ulcers, especially those with gastric ulcers, should take the condition seriously, actively undergo treatment and regular follow-up examinations, and take preventive measures to avoid malignant transformation.