Deciphering the Intricate Interactions of Dietary Modulators and Genetic Polymorphisms: A Comprehensive Investigation into the Mechanisms Underpinning Gastric Cancer Susceptibility

Abstract

Gastric cancer remains a global health concern, and its multifactorial etiology involves a complex interplay of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. In this study, we sought to investigate the association between dietary patterns, genetic polymorphisms and gastric cancer. We conducted a case-control study involving 200 participants, divided into cases (n=100) diagnosed with gastric cancer and controls (n=100) without a history of the disease. We examined an array of risk factors, including lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol consumption, and dietary habits), genetic polymorphisms (MTHFR, IL-1B, GST, NAT, p53), family history of gastric cancer, H. pylori infection, and cancer staging and histological characteristics. The results from our study indicated several significant differences between cases (individuals diagnosed with gastric cancer) and controls (individuals without a history of gastric cancer). While cases were, on average, slightly older (mean age 45.6 years) than controls (mean age 44.2 years), this age difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.24). Notably, a higher proportion of cases reported a history of smoking (60% vs. 38% in controls, p < 0.001), alcohol consumption (45% vs. 30% in controls, p = 0.009), a family history of gastric cancer (12% vs. 5% in controls, p = 0.035), and H. pylori infection (75% vs. 38% in controls, p < 0.001).  The study also revealed a strong association between dietary habits and gastric cancer, with cases reporting lower consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and higher intake of processed foods, red meat, salted/preserved foods, and alcohol, all of which were statistically significant risk factors for the disease (p < 0.001).  specific genetic polymorphisms, including MTHFR did demonstrate statistically significant associations with gastric cancer risk. This study underscores the multifaceted nature of gastric cancer risk, with both genetic and environmental factors playing pivotal roles. These findings emphasize the significance of preventive strategies, personalized healthcare approaches, and public health initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of this malignancy.