An ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms in the lining of the stomach or duodenum where hydrochloric acid and pepsin are present. About 1 in 10 Americans develop at least one ulcer during their lifetimes. Ulcers affect about 5 million people each year. More than 40,000 people a year have surgery because of persistent symptoms or problems from ulcers. Each year 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. Duodenal ulcers occur more frequently in men than women. Stomach ulcers are more likely to develop in people over age 60. Stomach ulcers develop more often in women than men. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a health problem.