Modern literature data on the incidence, risk factors, and screening methods for gastric cancer (GC) were analyzed. Global GC incidence is 9.2 per 100.000 people. The GC incidence in Russia, at 13.7 per 100.000 people, exceeds the global value and amounts to 19.8 per 100.000 males and 9.8 per 100.000 females. GC ranks second in the cancer mortality structure in Russia after lung cancer. Main GC risk factors include Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, tobacco smoking, a diet high in salt and processed meat, being male, being over 50 years of age, having a family history of the condition, alcohol consumption, and obesity. The main population screening method for GC is an endoscopic examination of people aged 50 and over every 2—3 years. Besides endoscopy, opportunistic screening can include pepsinogen and H. pylori tests. Activating screening and preventive measures is reasonable for reducing GC incidence in Russia.