Common stomach bacteria could lead to 12 million cancers, study warns

A common bacteria found in the stomach could cause nearly 12 million cancers among people born over a single decade, according to a new study. The study suggests that 76% of stomach cancers among individuals born between 2008 and 2017 may be caused by the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Stomach cancer, the fifth most common form of cancer globally, is largely preventable but has a poor prognosis once diagnosed, claiming around 770,000 lives annually.

Chronic infection with H. pylori is a significant cause of stomach cancer, contributing to the rise in cases among young individuals. Most people get infected with H. pylori in childhood, often remaining unaware of the infection due to the lack of symptoms. However, the bacteria can lead to ulcers or stomach lining inflammation and can spread through various means such as kissing or contact with vomit or stool.

Researchers from the World Health Organization (WHO) analyzed stomach cancer data from 185 countries in 2022. They projected that by 2101, around 11.9 million people could be diagnosed with stomach cancer linked to H. pylori infection. The majority of these cases are expected in Asia, with additional cases projected in certain European countries. The burden of stomach cancer is also anticipated to rise in sub-Saharan Africa due to demographic changes.

Dr. Jin Young Park, one of the study's co-authors, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated prevention strategies and preparedness of regional health systems to manage the increasing burden of gastric cancer. The study highlights the importance of investing in initiatives to screen and treat H. pylori infections promptly, as such programs could significantly reduce the number of expected stomach cancer cases.

According to the source: Euronews.com.