In general, ulcers in the stomach and duodenum are referred to as peptic ulcers. Ulcers rarely occur in the esophagus or in the first portion of the duodenum, the duodenal bulb. About 20 million Americans develop at least one ulcer during their lifetime. More than 40,000 people have surgery because of persistent symptoms or problems from ulcers. About 6,000 people die of ulcer-related complications.
Ulcers can develop at any age, but they are rare among teenagers and even more uncommon in children.
Duodenal ulcers occur for the first time usually between the ages of 30 and 50. Stomach ulcers are more likely to develop in people over age 60. For almost a century, doctors believed lifestyle factors such as stress and diet caused ulcers. While scientific evidence refutes the old belief that stress and diet cause ulcers, several lifestyle factors continue to be suspected of playing a role. These factors include cigarettes, foods and beverages containing caffeine, alcohol, and physical stress.