Portugal faces a pressing stomach cancer challenge, with a striking regional pattern
As World Digestive Cancer Day is marked on 30 September, Portugal’s statistics underline an urgent need for stronger prevention and earlier diagnosis. Data from GLOBOCAN 2022 show that the country registered more than 18,000 new cases of stomach cancer in that year, and about 11,700 deaths—roughly 30 people losing their lives every single day. While oncological advances continue, Portugal remains among Western European countries with the highest stomach cancer indicators, with a particular concentration in the North of the country.
The North-South divide: why the North is most affected
The regional disparity is rooted in a constellation of factors. Traditional dietary patterns often feature high salt content, processed meats and smoked products, all linked with increased cancer risk. The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection, a long-recognized driver of gastric cancer, also plays a major role, alongside alcohol and tobacco use, as well as higher-than-average obesity and sedentary lifestyles in certain areas. These elements together help explain why the North shows higher incidence and mortality from stomach cancer compared with other regions.
Projections raise concern for the coming decades
Looking ahead, international estimates warn of a continued climb. By 2045, the number of new digestive cancers in Portugal could rise by about 23%, with mortality increasing by more than 30%. Such projections point to more than 15,000 deaths annually unless comprehensive prevention, screening, and timely treatment respond decisively to this health burden.
A call to action from health advocates
Vítor Neves, President of Europacolon Portugal, stresses that much of the challenge stems from silence around the disease. “Portugal remains the Western European country with the highest stomach cancer incidence, especially in the North, but these numbers are not fate. We must break the taboo, talk openly about stomach cancer, promote prevention, and ensure access to screening and medical follow-up. If we are attentive to warning signs—loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, persistent stomach pain or discomfort, or frequent heartburn—and seek medical help promptly, lives can be saved.”
From awareness to action: the patient journey matters
The impact of digestive cancers goes beyond numbers. Many patients endure physical and emotional suffering, often facing delays in diagnosis and barriers to timely screening. These realities underscore the need for public health policies that center on prevention, equity in access to care, and reliable screening programs that catch cancer early when treatment is most effective.
Europacolon Portugal’s awareness initiative
To commemorate World Digestive Cancer Day, Europacolon will host an awareness activity on 30 September at NorteShopping, from 11:00 to 15:00. The event aims to bring information closer to the public, encourage attention to warning signs, and contribute to turning the tide on a major public health challenge in Portugal. The goal is simple: empower people with knowledge and make screening accessible and understandable for all.
What readers can do: signs, screening, and support
Key signs to watch for include persistent stomach discomfort, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, chest or abdominal pain, and persistent indigestion or reflux. If these symptoms persist, seek medical advice promptly. National health services continue to refine screening strategies; discuss eligibility for non-invasive tests or endoscopic investigations with a healthcare professional, especially if risk factors or family history are present. Early prevention and diagnosis are the strongest weapons in altering the course of this disease.
Concluding thought
The data do not merely reflect statistics; they reflect families and communities affected by stomach cancer. With stronger awareness, timely screening, and proactive prevention, Portugal can change this trajectory, reduce regional disparities, and save lives.
