The Global Impact of a Common Bacterium on Stomach Cancer
A significant number of stomach cancer cases worldwide are being driven by a common bacterium, according to recent research. Experts suggest that early detection and treatment could offer a critical solution to this growing health concern.
Scientists from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of the World Health Organisation, have estimated that if current trends continue, approximately 15.6 million individuals born between 2008 and 2017 will be diagnosed with stomach cancer during their lifetime. Alarmingly, 11.9 million of these cases—equivalent to 76%—are directly linked to an infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
While the majority of new cases are expected to occur in Asia, particularly in countries like India and China, there are also concerns about the numbers in other regions. Around two million cases could emerge in the Americas, 1.7 million in Africa, and 1.2 million in Europe.
Understanding H. pylori Infection
H. pylori is a bacterium that infects the lining of the stomach and is believed to spread through person-to-person contact or via contaminated food and water. Although ongoing research continues to explore how the infection spreads and contributes to stomach cancer and another type, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, many people who carry the bacteria may not experience any symptoms.
In some cases, H. pylori can cause persistent indigestion, bloating, or nausea. However, it often does not require treatment with antibiotics unless it leads to more severe complications. Diagnosis typically involves a blood test, breath test, or stool sample.
Prevention Strategies and Public Health Initiatives
The researchers behind the latest study are urging greater investment in preventing stomach cancer, especially through population-wide “screen and treat” programmes targeting H. pylori. These initiatives could significantly reduce the number of cases globally.
In the UK, where stomach cancer rates have been declining over the past decade, there has been a 26% reduction in cases. Experts predict this trend will continue, with further decreases expected by 2040. Dr Rachel Orritt, a health information manager at Cancer Research UK, highlighted that while H. pylori increases the risk of stomach cancer, it is not a widespread infection in the UK. She also pointed out that other preventable factors contribute more to cancer cases in the country.
To lower the risk of cancer, experts recommend quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and eating a balanced diet.
Global Projections and Regional Breakdown
For the study published in Nature Medicine, scientists examined the incidence of stomach cancer across 185 countries in 2022 and combined this data with projections for future deaths. They assessed the potential impact of screen-and-treat strategies for H. pylori and found that such approaches could cut the number of stomach cancer cases by up to 75%.
Asia is expected to account for two-thirds of projected future cases, with 10.6 million cases (68% of the total). The Americas would see around 2 million cases (13%), followed by Africa with 1.7 million (11%), Europe with 1.2 million (8%), and Oceania with 0.07 million (0.4%).
Calls for Action and Awareness
Dr Jin Young Park, a leader of the gastric cancer prevention team at IARC and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of prioritizing gastric cancer prevention. He called for health authorities to accelerate efforts to control the disease by planning pilot projects, including H. pylori screening and treatment programmes.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Stomach cancer can present with various symptoms, including heartburn or acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, feeling sick, indigestion, and burping. These symptoms are common and often caused by other conditions. Additional signs may include a loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss, stomach pain, a lump feeling at the top of the stomach, and extreme fatigue.
Early detection and awareness remain crucial in the fight against stomach cancer, particularly in regions where the disease is more prevalent. By focusing on prevention and public health initiatives, global efforts can make a meaningful difference in reducing the burden of this illness.
