Common Causes & Risk Factors Of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Serious Illnesses

A few serious illnesses are linked to the development of peptic ulcer disease. One of the most common is stomach cancer. There is evidence that chronic H. pylori infection can lead to stomach cancer in about one to two percent of patients. An ulcer is essentially a sore on the protective lining of the stomach. This eventually causes erosion of the digestive system due to stomach acid. Bacteria can infect this open sore and lead to DNA mutations and damage to the stomach lining. Long-term inflammation can also increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Crohn's disease is also linked to stomach ulcers, but the use of NSAIDs to treat the condition may also be to blame, as when they are taken at high doses or for a long time, they can contribute to damage to the stomach lining.

Continue for more on the risk factors and causes of peptic ulcer disease.