Fig. 2: Evolution of GC and its causes.

The progression from common gastric lesions to GC occurs through four stages: Stage 1: Chronic non-atrophic gastritis. Stage 2: Chronic atrophic gastritis, a precancerous lesion that warrants attention. In cases of Helicobacter pylori infection, eradication should be initiated without delay. Stage 3: Intestinal metaplasia, a further advancement in precancerous lesions. If left untreated, some of these lesions may progress to early GC. Stage 4: GC, the final malignant stage, typically presents with no distinct symptoms or signs in its early phases. The etiology of GC is multifactorial, including lifestyle, dietary habits, infectious agents, genetic predispositions, and other contributing factors.