South Korea has the highest stomach cancer rates in the world due to its dietary habits and lifestyle choices. Many Koreans manage stress with alcohol, smoking, and overeating, preferring spicy, salty, and sweet foods. These factors lead to a much higher incidence of stomach cancer, with some experts suggesting that being Korean alone increases the risk. However, medical professionals stress that there is no need for excessive fear, as early detection rates are improving and treatment outcomes are becoming more successful.
The 2021 National Cancer Registration Statistics, released late last year, rank stomach cancer as the fourth most common cancer in South Korea, following thyroid, lung, and colorectal cancers. Approximately 30,000 new cases are reported annually, with an incidence rate ten times higher than that of the United States per 100,000 people.
The high prevalence of stomach cancer in South Korea is strongly linked to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections. Research suggests that East Asians may carry a specific gene that makes them more susceptible to particularly aggressive strains of H. pylori.
People infected with H. pylori have a risk of two to ten times higher of developing stomach cancer compared to those who are not infected. While the disease usually takes 30 to 40 years to develop after infection, some individuals may progress more rapidly. Fortunately, H. pylori eradication therapy can reduce stomach cancer incidence by more than half.
Doctors recommend that individuals over 40 or those with chronic gastritis undergo H. pylori testing during endoscopic examinations. If the infection is confirmed, eradication treatment is essential.
Dr. Kim Byung Wook, a gastroenterology professor at the Catholic University of Korea, Incheon St. Mary’s Hospital, noted that H. pylori infection rates are gradually decreasing. He emphasized the importance of tailored treatment approaches to maximize eradication success.
Early-stage stomach cancer often presents no noticeable symptoms, and when symptoms do appear, they resemble common digestive issues such as heartburn or indigestion. More advanced signs, including unexplained weight loss, black stools, and abdominal masses, suggest later-stage disease.
Dr. Lee Jun Hyun, a gastroenterology professor at the Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu St. Mary’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of regular check-ups in preventing and diagnosing stomach cancer. He noted that increased use of gastric endoscopy and technological advancements have significantly improved early detection rates.
Treatment varies based on the cancer stage. Early-stage cancers confined to the stomach lining or submucosa can often be removed endoscopically, allowing for faster recovery and minimal dietary restrictions post-treatment.
For stage 2 and 3 cases, where cancer has spread deeper but not metastasized, laparoscopic surgery combined with chemotherapy is the standard treatment to reduce recurrence risk.
However, advanced-stage cases (3b or 4) present greater challenges. Dr. Kim cautioned that chemotherapy response rates drop below 60% at these stages, significantly lowering survival rates.
To lower stomach cancer risk, experts advise against sharing dishes and communal drinking, limiting salty and spicy foods, and managing stress effectively. Stress can impair digestion by reducing enzyme secretion and slowing gastric motility.
Alcohol consumption, particularly on an empty stomach, can damage the stomach lining. Smoking is one of the strongest risk factors for gastrointestinal cancers, tripling the risk of stomach cancer compared to non-smokers.
Early prevention remains critical. Dr. Lee stated that more than 97% of stomach cancer cases can be cured when detected and treated early. He recommended regular endoscopic screenings every one to two years for adults over 40 or those with digestive disorders.
Dr. Kim advised that individuals with a history of polyp removal or endoscopic stomach cancer surgery undergo annual endoscopies, as 15% of these patients experience recurrence. Before transitioning to annual screenings, follow-up exams may be needed every three to six months.