Japanese researchers proved in a recent investigation the link between a common germ and cancer. In their landmark study, germ elimination greatly reduced the risk of tumor recurrence after stomach cancer surgery. Also a cause of peptic ulcer, the culprit known as Helicobacter pylori is believed to cause malignancy of the stomach.
The researchers evaluated cancer recurrence of 544 patients who previously went under the knife for early stomach cancer. Half of the patients received H. pylori regimen (eradication group) that consist of amoxicillin, clarithromycin and lansoprazole. The other half received standard care with no H. pylori treatment (control group).
After three years, 24 patients in the control group and nine patients in the eradication group developed new lesions. Taking into account age, gender, type and location of tumor and other factors, it was concluded that eradicating the germ reduced the risk of cancer recurrence by approximately 65 percent. The researchers recommended that prophylactic H. pylori eradication regimen after surgery for early stomach malignancy be used to prevent tumor recurrence.
This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.