Risk Factors for Peptic Ulcer

About 25 million people in the U.S. will likely develop a peptic ulcer in their life. The most common cause of peptic ulcers is the Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can be picked up from poorly prepared foods, utensils or drinks.

Gender

• Men are twice as likely to develop peptic ulcers in the duodenum as women but women are more likely to develop gastric ulcers.

Age

• The peak for gastric ulcer development is between ages 55 and 65.

NSAID Use

• The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like Advil), increases a person's risk for ulcers by 15 to 25 percent because they irritate the stomach. The risk nearly doubles in people aged 50 and older.

Stress

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the notion that stress is a cause of ulcers in unfounded, although it is believed that it plays a role in decreasing the ability of ulcers to heal once developed.

Diet

• People that consume excessive amounts of alcohol, caffeine or spicy foods are at an increased risk for developing peptic ulcers because they can cause significant stomach irritation.