This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: None, Subject name: Pathology
Which one of the following is the most significant risk factor for the development of gastric carcinoma? 
Select and explain. 
A. Paneth cell metaplasia, B. Pyloric metaplasia, C. Intestinal metaplasia, D. Ciliated metaplasia
C: Intestinal metaplasia
Answer: C: Intestinal metaplasia 
Explanation: " The risk of tumor development is greatly increased in patients in whom mucosal inflammation progresses to multifocal mucosal atrophy and intestinal metaplasia"- Robbins
"Serial endoscopic examinations of the stomach in patients with atrophic gastritis have documented replacement of the usual gastric mucosa by intestinal-type cells. This process of intestinal metaplasia may lead to cellular atypia and eventual neoplasia" - Harrison