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Risk Factors for Peptic Ulcer Disease

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Risk Factors for Peptic Ulcer Disease

A risk factor is something that raises a person's chances of getting a disease or health problem. A person can have a peptic ulcer with or without the risks below. The more risks a person has, the greater the chances are.

Peptic ulcers are more common in older adults. H. pylori infection is the most common risk factor for getting peptic ulcer disease. Other things that raise the risk are:

Medicines

Medicines that may raise the risk are:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
  • Oral corticosteroids
  • Biphosphonates
  • Potassium chloride
  • Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer

References

  • Lanas A, Chan FKL. Peptic ulcer disease. Lancet. 2017;390(10094):613-624.
  • Peptic ulcer disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 5, 2022.
  • Peptic ulcer disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/gastritis-and-peptic-ulcer-disease/peptic-ulcer-disease. Accessed May 5, 2022.
  • Peptic ulcers (stomach ulcers). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/peptic-ulcers-stomach-ulcers/all-content. Accessed May 5, 2022.

Contributors

  • Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated:
2022-02-04

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.