A common stomach bacteria that often shows no symptoms could be responsible for nearly 12 million cases of stomach cancer worldwide, a new study warns. Researchers highlight that early detection and treatment of this infection could prevent a significant number of these cancers and save countless lives.
The bacteria, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), infects many people during childhood without causing obvious symptoms. However, chronic infection with H. pylori can lead to stomach inflammation, ulcers, and significantly increases the risk of developing stomach cancer later in life.
According to research published in Nature Medicine, an estimated 15.6 million people born between 2008 and 2017 may develop stomach cancer during their lifetime, and approximately 76% of these cases are linked to H. pylori infection.
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and has a poor survival rate once diagnosed, causing about 770,000 deaths annually. The bacteria’s silent presence is believed to contribute to a recent rise in stomach cancer cases among younger populations.
Transmission of H. pylori typically occurs through oral contact, such as kissing, or exposure to vomit or fecal matter, making it easily spreadable within communities.
The World Health Organization’s cancer research agency analyzed global data and projected that nearly 12 million cases of stomach cancer attributable to H. pylori infection could occur by the year 2101. The majority—around 8 million—will be concentrated in Asia, while Europe and nearby regions will face nearly half a million cases.
Notably, stomach cancer rates linked to this infection are expected to rise sharply in regions like sub-Saharan Africa due to population growth and aging.
Dr. Jin Young Park from the WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer emphasizes the urgent need for coordinated health strategies. “With demographic shifts increasing the global burden of stomach cancer, prevention and early treatment programs are critical,” Dr. Park said.
Despite challenges with data quality in lower-income countries, researchers agree the evidence is strong enough to justify immediate action. They urge governments worldwide to implement screening and treatment initiatives for H. pylori infections, which could potentially reduce stomach cancer cases by up to 75%.
Prioritizing gastric cancer prevention through these measures could dramatically improve global health outcomes and reduce the impact of this deadly but largely preventable disease.
Read more:
Are You Getting Enough Fiber for Good Gut Health?
Spike in Tick Bite ER Visits Raises Health Concerns Amid Rising Tick Activity This Summer
