2015 Volume 53 Issue 6 Pages 766-774
Backgrounds: Although the patients classified into Group A in ABC classification are regarded as being at low risk of gastric cancer, it raises the concern that the incidence ratio of gastric mucosal atrophy is higher than expected in the elderly.
Materials and Methods: We compared, according to age, ABC classification and the levels of gastric mucosal atrophy determined by radiography screening. 1168 participants of population-based screening for gastric cancer conducted at Village C in Chiba Prefecture in March 2013 were enrolled. Participants with a history of Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication, under treatment for gastric disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease or gastric resection were excluded by interview form. Blood was collected from participants on the day X-ray examination was performed after obtaining written informed consent.
Results: In the elderly group (70 years or older), the rate with gastric mucosal atrophy was 40-50%, even though the participants were classified into Group A. Evaluation utilizing HP antibody (less than 3 U/ml) or Pepsinogen method was inappropriate to exclude gastric mucosal atrophy.
Conclusions: A higher incidence of gastric atrophy was observed in the elderly who were originally classified into Group A by ABC classification. Additional diagnosis by imaging is required to exclude severe atrophic gastritis.
