What is Helicobacter pylori?
Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that colonizes the stomach's mucous lining. It is the most widespread chronic bacterial infection in the world, affecting over 50% of the global population with varying prevalence by geography and socioeconomic status.
How is this bacteria transmitted?
The bacteria spreads through:
- Contaminated water
- Contaminated food
- Person-to-person contact, particularly during childhood before age 10
Transmission is strongly familial and linked to poor sanitary conditions and overcrowding.
Link to Cancer
H. pylori is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen (definite human carcinogen) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) since 1994.
Gastric Cancer Risk
- The infection significantly increases gastric cancer risk
- One study found an odds ratio of 3.6 compared to uninfected individuals
- However, invasive gastric cancer develops in only about 3% of infected persons after several decades
Associated Diseases
H. pylori infection can lead to:
- Acute gastritis (inflammation of stomach lining)
- Chronic gastritis (often asymptomatic)
- Peptic ulcers (in about 5% of cases)
- MALT lymphoma (rare)
- Gastric cancer
Key Statistics
| Condition | Percentage of Infected |
|---|---|
| Asymptomatic | 80% |
| Develop ulcers | 2-20% |
| Develop gastric cancer | 1% |
Screening and Diagnosis
Detection methods include:
- Histological examination
- Bacterial culture
- Breath tests using marked urea
- Serological antibody detection
Treatment
Standard therapy combines:
- A proton pump inhibitor at double dose
- Two antibiotics (amoxicillin and clarithromycin)
- Duration: 7 days
- Efficacy rate: approximately 90%
Treatment verification occurs 4-5 weeks after completion using breath tests.
Prevention
To reduce infection risk:
- Follow hygiene rules for food and personal care
- Consume quality drinking water
- Avoid sharing utensils and glasses
- Consult a doctor for persistent digestive symptoms
Conclusion
Although H. pylori infection is very common, early screening and appropriate treatment can eliminate the bacteria and significantly reduce the risk of serious complications, including gastric cancer.
Source: Centre Léon Bérard - Cancer Environment
Explanatory video: YouTube