When we think about cancer risk factors, we often think of genetics, lifestyle, or environmental exposure. But what if a common stomach bacterium could also play a role? Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infects nearly half the world’s population, and for many, it causes no symptoms at all. However, research over the past few decades has uncovered a possible connection between this bacterium and certain types of cancer, especially in the digestive system. This blog will help you explore the science behind H. pylori, how it affects the body, and whether its presence could increase your cancer risk. The good news? With the right information and timely treatment, risks can be managed effectively.
Overview
What is H. Pylori?
- pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is a type of bacterial infection that affects the inner lining of the stomach or duodenum(part of the first intestine). It mainly causes the peptic ulcer that can irritate or inflame the stomach lining(Gastritis). Infection with H. pylori is also related to the increased risk of stomach cancer. However, research is still going on to check for the link between cancer and H. Pylori.
How does H. Pylori spread?
Research is still ongoing on how they are spread and their effect. It is thought that the disease is spread from person to person or through contaminated food and water. Most people often get infected during childhood In most cases, the infection with H pylori does not cause any harm but in severe conditions it may lead to nausea, bloating, and indigestion.
What is the prevalence(occurrence) rate of H. pylori in India?
Globally, H. Pylori is present in ~55- 75% of people and does not cause illness in many people. It mostly affects children and is more widespread in developing countries like India, affecting 50-60% population, with some reports suggesting it can infect 80-90% population. In India, rural areas may face a high infection rate due to poor sanitation habits, contributing to chronic gastritis, Peptic ulcers etc.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the Symptoms of H. pylori disease?
Earlier, it may not show any symptoms, but as the disease progresses, some of the common signs can be seen. This includes:-
- Stomach pain
- Nausea or Vomiting (bloody vomit in severe conditions)
- Frequent Burping
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Early satiety ( feeling full after a small meal)
- Black, tarry stool( due to internal bleeding)
How does H. pylori harm the stomach?
H. pylori attacks the mucus layer lining the stomach and duodenum, this layer protects the stomach layer from the acidic environment(HCL in the stomach)
This bacterium, when it divides, secretes an enzyme called Urease that converts urea to ammonia, which protects it from the stomach acid as it multiplies it irritates the lining, leading to gastritis or chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer.
Does H. pylori cause Stomach Cancer?
While the research is still ongoing to find the exact cause of H pylori infection link with stomach cancer, however it is seen that long-term swelling and irritation with H. Helicobacter pylori can lead to a condition called Severe chronic atrophic gastritis(SCAG) which may cause Stomach Cancer(Read).In addition, a strong family history of stomach cancer and bad lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking can increase the risk of stomach cancer. For this, continuous screening for infection and changes in lifestyle habits can help you reduce the cancer risk associated with H. Pylori infection
What are the other risk factors of H. Pylori?
As H pylori causes a very small type of cancer, including stomach cancer, some other risk factors of cancer, such as Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, a rare cancer type, begin in the lymphatic system, also called Mucosal-associated lymphoid tissue(MALT) Lymphoma.
Diagnosis and Treatment
What is the Diagnosis of H. Pylori Infection?
Diagnosis of H. Pylori bacteria requires some of the essential tests, which include:-
Urea Breath Test: It is non invasive test in which urea solution is drink and then exhale into the bag to check for the level of carbon dioxide, Higher level of Co2 means the H.Pylori bacteria is present.
(Note- May not be suitable for a person taken antibiotics.)
Stool test- Examine stool for H. pylori antigen or protein in the stool sample.
Endoscopy with Biopsy: A thin flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted into the stomach, and a small tissue sample is collected and tested for the presence of H. Pylori infection(Biopsy)
Blood test: It can be used to check for the antibodies produced in response to the H. Pylori Infection.
Treatment
pylori can be best treated with the combination of antibiotics and by using a proton pump Inhibitor
- Antibiotics: Among the common choices are amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and tetracycline.
- Proton Pump Inhibitor:These helps to stop the acid production in stomach Commonly used proton pump inhibitors are lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole rabeprazole or esomeprazole.
- Bismuth Subsalicylate: Commonly known by the Brand name Pepto bismol is used in combination with the antibiotics and Proton Pump Inhibitor, helps protect the stomach lining.
- Histamine Blockers: It blocks the Histamine that is responsible for the acid production. example is cimetidine (Tagamet HB) etc.
Note- Always consult with your doctor before taking this medicine, as the dosage is determined depending on the cancer type and patient condition
How to prevent H. Pylori Infection?
- You can reduce your risk of getting this infection by
- Maintain Personal Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food.
- Drink Safe Water: Avoid drinking unfiltered or untreated water, especially when traveling to areas with poor sanitation.
- Eat Properly Cooked Food: Ensure all food, especially meat, is cooked thoroughly. Avoid food from unhygienic street vendors or places with poor food safety practices.
- Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Wash raw fruits and vegetables well under clean running water before eating.
- Regular Health Checkups: If you have recurrent stomach pain, bloating, or indigestion, see a doctor. Early testing and treatment can prevent complications like ulcers or stomach cancer
A final thought
- pylori is a widespread bacterial infection that many people may carry without obvious symptoms. However, ignoring it can lead to serious health problems over time, including chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, and even stomach cancer. The good news is that H. pylori can be detected through simple tests and effectively treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications. By paying attention to persistent digestive symptoms and seeking timely medical advice, you can protect your stomach health and significantly reduce the risk of severe complications. Don’t overlook your gut, early action can make all the difference.
