The danger that leads to stomach cancer: Helicobacter pylori

Stating that the Helicobacter pylori bacterium is one of the most important causes of stomach cancer, Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Meltem Ergün pointed out that this bacterium causes silent infections in the stomach worldwide. She stated that the World Health Organization recognizes Helicobacter pylori as an infectious disease and that it must be treated when detected.

“Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that plays an important role in stomach cancer and is common worldwide. This bacterium is seen in 70-80% of the population in developing countries and in 10-30% in developed countries,” said Prof. Dr. Ergün, noting that this bacterium increases the risk of stomach cancer in developing countries.

Stating that symptoms such as indigestion, loss of appetite, and heartburn frequently experienced in daily life are often attributed to stress or poor diet, Ergün warned, “These symptoms may be the first signs of stomach cancer.”

Ergün emphasized that stomach cancer is the most common type of gastrointestinal cancer after bowel cancer and is often detected late because it is confused with other stomach diseases. “Early diagnosis increases the chance of treatment by preventing the tumor from spreading to other organs. Late diagnosis reduces treatment success,” she said.

She also stated that risk factors for stomach cancer include dietary habits, Helicobacter pylori infection, and smoking.

“Sudden weight loss, unexplained anemia, and new-onset stomach complaints are alarm symptoms. Patients who say, ‘I could eat anything without issue, but now everything bothers me,’ should consult a specialist without delay.”

She also added that persistent anemia, especially after menopause, and stomach ailments that emerge after middle age are important alarm signs. She added that a definitive diagnosis can be made via endoscopy.

Pointing out that stomach cancer is closely related to dietary habits, Ergün shared the following information:

"In the Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia regions, the consumption of very hot tea and the use of cigarettes and tobacco products increase the risk of stomach and esophageal cancer. Stomach and intestinal tumors are seen more frequently in diets heavy in fats, pastries, and meat."

“A Mediterranean-style diet, fibrous foods, and the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits should be preferred. Highly spiced foods should be avoided, and smoking and alcohol should be quit. Such small changes in lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of stomach cancer,” she said.

She stated that endoscopic examination, MRI, and PET-CT imaging methods are used for a definitive diagnosis of stomach cancer. She expressed that surgical treatment is prioritized in stomach cancer cases caught at an early stage and that the 5-year life expectancy is in the 50-70% range. However, she said that this rate decreases in advanced stages.