Exploring the Relationship Between Gastric Cancer and Nutritional Risk Factors: Insights from the Korea National Health Insurance Database

Abstract Background Gastric cancer is a global public health concern, ranking as the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths despite its decreasing incidence over the last five decades. Gastric cancer rates vary across regions, which may be attributable to factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, environmental factors, and genetic predispositions. Objective We aimed to examine the association between gastric cancer, nutrient intake, and lifestyle parameters in Korean adults. Methods The study was conducted in Korea and utilised the KNHANES dataset (2012–2016) to explore nutritional risk factors associated with gastric cancer. Multivariable analysis was conducted to confirm the association of micronutrients and specific food items using questionnaires designed to collect data on individuals' consumption frequency and nutrient intake. Results This study enrolled 18,894 participants, including individuals diagnosed with gastric cancer. Factors associated with gastric cancer included male sex, advanced age, low body mass index, and regular consumption of meals prepared outside the home. Multivariate analysis indicated that lower intake of protein (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97–0.99, p < 0.001), fat (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.98–0.99, p < 0.004), and thiamine (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.45–0.76, p < 0.001) and higher intake of niacin (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08, p < 0.001) correlated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. Additionally, specific dietary items such as tteok (rice cake) and soju contributed to an elevated risk of gastric cancer (OR 1.21, 95% CI, 1.01–1.40; OR 1.14, 95% CI, 1.03–1.25; p < 0.001). Conclusions We found an association between gastric cancer and various nutrient and lifestyle parameters in a nationally representative sample of Korean adults. Nutrient intake and lifestyle-related factors play a pivotal role in influencing the prevalence of gastric cancer, suggesting that tailored interventions could mitigate gastric cancer risk in specific populations.