Treatable infection linked to millions of future stomach cancer cases

A global study published in Nature Medicine estimates that 15.6 million people born between 2008 and 2017 will develop gastric cancer over their lifetimes if no preventive measures are taken. 

Of these, approximately 76%, or nearly 12 million cases, are linked to chronic Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a treatable bacterial cause of most noncardia gastric cancers.

Researchers analyzed data from 185 countries, combining cancer incidence and demographic projections. Asia is expected to bear the heaviest burden, with over two-thirds of future cases, followed by the Americas and Africa. According to the study, nearly half of projected cases will occur in regions currently considered low-risk, where demographic changes could cause gastric cancer rates to rise sixfold compared to 2022 estimates. 

The study underscores the urgency for population-based prevention strategies, particularly H. pylori screen-and-treat programs. Researchers call for greater investment in prevention, including vaccine development, to address the growing burden. Without action, gastric cancer, which is already the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths, will remain a major global public health threat for decades to come.

Read more: Nature Medicine 

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