Helicobacter pylori (HP) Bacteria: A Leading Contributor to Stomach Cancer
Helicobacter pylori, commonly known as HP bacteria, stands as the primary culprit behind gastric and duodenal ulcers, which can eventually escalate into stomach cancer.
1. Understanding HP Bacteria
HP bacteria inhabit the protective mucous layer that shields the stomach lining. These bacteria employ a strategy to weaken this crucial mucus layer by secreting substances that trigger increased stomach acid production. Simultaneously, they release various toxins that harm the cells residing beneath the mucous layer. This dual assault renders the stomach lining vulnerable to erosion from the stomach's digestive acids, leading to the formation of gastric and duodenal ulcers.
HP bacteria are primarily transmitted through shared dietary habits, including the consumption of contaminated food, saliva, feces, or digestive fluids within families. Infection occurs when individuals ingest unsanitary food or water containing these bacteria.
2. The Significance of a Positive HP Bacteria Test
A positive HP bacteria test signifies a potential risk factor for stomach cancer. However, whether an HP bacteria infection progresses to stomach cancer depends on several factors, such as an individual's constitution, dietary choices, and the virulence of the bacteria. Similar to how smoking and alcohol consumption elevate the risk of stomach cancer, particularly in the upper part of the stomach near the esophagus, statistics reveal that the incidence of stomach cancer is twice as high in smokers. This risk also significantly escalates among individuals over 50 years old.
HP bacteria rank as the leading contributor to stomach cancer according to the International Cancer Organization. Reducing the presence of HP bacteria is recommended to mitigate the risk of stomach cancer. It's essential to emphasize that HP bacteria contribute to stomach cancer development but having these bacteria does not guarantee cancer.
3. Preventing HP Bacteria Infection
To prevent the spread of HP bacteria within a family, it is advisable to isolate individuals with HP-related stomach issues and discourage food sharing.Personal hygiene practices play a pivotal role:
- Thoroughly washing hands before meals and after restroom use is imperative.
- For individuals with stomach ulcers, adopting the following lifestyle choices can help prevent complications:
- Maintain a balanced and moderate diet, avoiding excessive consumption and extreme hunger.
- Regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep are essential.
- Refrain from consuming extremely hot or cold foods, hard-to-digest items, and highly acidic foods.
- Limit alcohol intake.
