MCQ Pathology Answer 41

The correct Answer is D

According to the most recent available estimates, gastric cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, following lung cancer (Parkin et al, 1999). Survival from gastric cancer is poor.

The high risk areas are in Japan, China, Eastern Europe and certain countries in Latin America. Low risk populations are seen among whites in North America, India, the Filipines, most countries in Africa, some western European countries and Australia.

Aetiological studies point to infection with H. pylori and a poor diet as the main determinants of gastric cancer risk.

• There was convincing evidence that a diet high in vegetables and fruits decreases risk. The most likely anti-carcinogenic compounds contained in vegetables and fruits are anti-oxidant vitamins (e.g. vitamin C, beta-carotene and vitamin E).
• Evidence that vitamin C reduces risk was considered probable.
• Evidence that a diet high in salt intake increases risk was considered probable.
• There was convincing evidence that use of refrigeration to preserve food decreases risk. This effect may be mediated either through an increased intake of fresh fruit and vegetables or a decreased reliance on salted food.

Individuals with blood group A have been known for decades to have an approximately 20% excess of gastric cancer compared with other blood groups.

Gastric cancer incidence rates have been declining world wide for several decades. The two major changes that could be made at a population level to reduce gastric cancer incidence are improvement in diet and reduction in the prevalence of H. pylori. These changes are already taking place in many populations, and may explain the observed decline in gastric cancer incidence.

Category: Pathology MCQs