More than 40% of gastric cancers in China are caused by HP infection

More than 40% of gastric cancer cases in China are caused by Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection. According to my country’s first HP infection prevention and control white paper, the personal HP infection rate in my country is approximately 56%, and the household infection rate is 71%.

Our country is currently facing a heavy burden of gastric cancer, with its incidence ranking fourth among all cancers and its death toll ranking third among all cancers. Gastric cancer accounts for 12.4% of deaths from all cancer-related diseases.

HP infection occurs when bacteria infect the stomach. This usually occurs in childhood. It is a common risk factor for stomach ulcers, gastritis, and stomach cancer.

The white paper points out that correct diagnosis and treatment of HP infection, as well as eradication therapy, are very important. The white paper states, “Once HP infection is discovered, prompt eradication treatment is encouraged.”

Medical experts say that eradication of HP is the most important and first-line measure for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer. It can reduce the risk of stomach cancer by 52%.

There are more innovative drugs with fewer side effects and better eradication results than traditional drugs. Some innovative drugs will be displayed at this year’s China International Import Expo.

Pharmaceutical company Takeda has announced it will bring its vonoprazan fumarate tablets to this year’s CIIE after Chinese authorities received a new application for its indication for Helicobacter pylori eradication. The company expressed strong appreciation for the CIIE, which has greatly increased the introduction of new drugs into China.