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A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop peptic ulcer disease with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing peptic ulcer disease. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.
Risk factors for peptic ulcers fall into two categories:
Lifestyle Factors
Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Infection with Helicobacter pylori is the most well-defined risk factor for the development of peptic ulcers. You have an increased risk of being infected with H. pylori if you:
Age
Gender
Genetic Factors
You’re more likely to develop a peptic ulcer if you have other family members who have had ulcers.
Ethnic Background
You have twice the risk of developing a peptic ulcer if you are of African-American or Hispanic background.
Other Risk Factors
References:
American College of Gastroenterology website. Available at: http://www.acg.gi.org/ . Accessed March 3, 2006.
Cecil RL, Goldman L, Bennett JC. Cecil Textbook of Medicine . 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2000.
Meurer LN, Bower DJ. Management of helicobacter pylori infection. Am Fam Physician [online]. Apr 2002;65(7). Available at: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20020401/1327.html.
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse website. Available at:. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ . Accessed March 3, 2006.
Last reviewed June 2008 by Daus Mahnke, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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