Should I treat Helicobacter pylori infection?

Eradication of Helicobacter pylori significantly reduces the risk of gastric cancer in high-risk populations, such as older adults, individuals from regions with high prevalence of H. pylori and gastric cancer, chronic NSAID users, patients with pre-malignant gastric lesions, alarm symptoms, chronic smoking and male sex.

The American Gastroenterological Association recommends H. pylori eradication as an essential strategy for primary and secondary prevention of gastric cancer in these groups. [1] The absolute benefit is greater in high-risk populations, particularly before the development of pre-malignant lesions. In individuals without pre-malignant histological changes, risk reduction may reach up to 63%. [1]

1. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Screening and Surveillance in Individuals at Increased Risk for Gastric Cancer in the United States: Expert Review Published February 2025