Helicobacter pylori Gastritis:

Learning from History

Abstract

  In 1983, Helicobacter pylori (Hp) was discovered and has revolutionized the concept of upper gastrointestinal diseases, including gastric cancer (GC). Hp screening is considered important in preventive medicine, such as the comprehensive health check-up system. It should be used effectively after understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each Hp testing method. Additionally, eradication therapy should be performed jointly with insurance treatment to reduce the risk of GC. Moreover, endoscopy-based surveillance is desirable based on the understanding of the characteristics of diseases and GCs caused by Hp infection status. For future reference, I have summarized our findings by reviewing the 40-year history of Hp study, treatment, and screening. Over the past 40 years in Japan, the Hp infection rate has declined rapidly, and eradication therapy has become widespread. The proportion of Hp cases in the comprehensive health check-up system has become extremely low, and the disease spectrum has changed; thus, it is important to respond to this change.

  The attitude of verifying facts without being compelled by preconceptions is required in preventive medicine.