Are peptic ulcers common?
Peptic ulcers are relatively common, affecting millions of people worldwide. They can develop in the stomach (gastric ulcers) or the upper part of the small intestine (duodenal ulcers). Various factors contribute to their occurrence, including Helicobacter pylori infections, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.