Stomach Cancer Awareness Month 2025: Oncologist reveals link between smoking and stomach cancer, early symptoms, lifestyle changes

Stomach cancer often starts silently — but smoking makes it far more dangerous. Doctors explain how tobacco harms the stomach, early symptoms to watch for

Stomach cancer is one of those illnesses that are silent at first, and serious when ignored. And one major culprit, according to specialists, is something completely preventable; smoking. November, the Stomach Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to make informed choices, prioritise prevention, and protect your future health.

Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, begins when abnormal cells start growing uncontrollably in the lining of the stomach. Dr Manoj Lokhande, Surgical Oncologist, Onco-Life Cancer Centre, Satara, says, “It is a disease that can turn fatal if not caught early. While genes and diet certainly play their part, smoking remains one of the strongest and clearest risk factors.”

Every year, a significant number of stomach cancer cases can be traced back to long-term tobacco use, says Dr Lokhande. "Quitting smoking is one of the simplest and most powerful steps a person can take to reduce their risk. Tobacco smoke carries several harmful chemicals that directly harm the stomach lining. Slowly, they weaken the body’s natural repair mechanisms, making the tissue more vulnerable to damage", Dr Lokhande tells Moneycontrol.

Also Read: 6 health risks of smoking: It harms your heart, damages your bones, robs your skin's glow

Dr Lokhande further explains that these chemicals can trigger DNA mutations, tiny faults within cells that, if left unchecked, may grow into cancer. He said, “Alongside, Helicobacter pylori, a bacterial infection linked to stomach ulcers and cancer, is another culprit. Smokers are more prone to this infection, and when combined with tobacco’s corrosive effects, the risk multiplies.” Even second-hand smoke, he warns, is not harmless. "It increases the risk for non-smokers too, especially those exposed regularly", he adds.

The difficult part is that early symptoms like indigestion, bloating, nausea, a shrinking appetite, or unexpected weight loss, often feel too mild to worry about. People brush them aside until they grow louder.

Dr Lokhande shares precautionary steps to help you protect yourself:

• State determined and try to quit smoking
• Seek smoking cessation support from a medical expert
• Avoid second-hand smoking
• Understand that quitting, benefits, the lungs, and also the entire digestive system

• Your diet should contain fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Cut down on oily, canned, and junk food. Avoid processed foods as they burden the stomach.

• Long-lasting indigestion, vomiting, abdominal pain or weight loss need medical evaluation
• Early diagnosis makes treatment more effective

• Especially important if there is a family history or recurrent stomach issues.
• Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy based on diagnosis.

1. How does smoking increase the risk of stomach cancer?

Smoking introduces harmful chemicals that damage the stomach lining, weaken the body's natural repair mechanisms, and increase vulnerability to cancer.

2. Can second-hand smoke also lead to stomach cancer?

Yes, second-hand smoke increases the risk for non-smokers, particularly those regularly exposed.

3. Are smokers more susceptible to stomach infections that lead to cancer?

Smokers are more prone to infections like Helicobacter pylori, which, combined with tobacco's effects, heighten cancer risk.

4. How can quitting smoking benefit the digestive system?

Quitting smoking reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, allowing the stomach lining to repair and lowering overall cancer risk.

5. What are the early symptoms of stomach cancer that smokers should be aware of?

Symptoms include indigestion, bloating, nausea, reduced appetite, and unexpected weight loss.

 Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.