Over 50% of the global population is infected by a silent killer bacteria, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). That equals 4.4 billion people worldwide with higher risks of experiencing peptic ulcers and, worse, gastric cancer. 

Since its discovery, H. pylori has been identified as the culprit of millions of deaths yearly. Though its cases decrease yearly, it remains one of the biggest health threats. 

Developments in medicine and research have allowed health professionals to find ways to eradicate H. pylori slowly. 

This blog will highlight how H. pylori is contracted, its complications, and what you can do about it. 

Understanding Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacteria with a unique spiral shape. It thrives in the stomach’s acidic environment, making itself at home in the digestive tracts of billions of people.

Once inside you, H. pylori poses a significant threat to your health. It buries itself in the mucus layer of your stomach, causing the lining to thin down. This thinning deters the structure of your stomach, which can aggravate inflammation. 

Your immune cells have a hard time eliminating this dangerous bacteria because they can’t reach your lining. This is how H. pylori continues to thrive and colonize your stomach lining. 

Complications of H. pylori

H. pylori may be tiny, but its impact can be colossal. Two of its most notorious complications are ulcers and gastric cancer.

H. pylori and ulcer

About 10% of the H. pylori-infected population will develop ulcers. Ulcers are open sores that develop on the stomach’s inner lining or the small intestine’s upper part. These ulcers happen because H. pylori weakens the protective mucus barrier in the stomach, allowing stomach acid to harm the tissues underneath.

H. pylori and gastric cancer

When it comes to gastric cancer, 90% of diagnosed cases are due to H. pylori infection. The World Health Organization recognizes it as a class 1 carcinogen. 

Since H. pylori colonizes the stomach lining, it causes chronic inflammation, also called chronic gastritis. Chronic gastritis is a major risk factor for cancer development. 

Certain strains of H. pylori cause damage to cells, which gravely increases cancer risks. An example is H. pylori cagA, which causes stomach cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer. 

Additionally, H. pylori disrupts stomach lining repair, slows cell turnover, and increases genetic problems, making cancer more likely to develop.

How does H. pylori spread?

H. pylori infection is prevalent worldwide and varies across different regions and populations. 

Around 30% to 50% of the population in developed countries may contract the bacteria. The risk is even higher in developing countries, which can range from 85% to 95% of the population. 

These differences happen because of various factors like: 

• Living conditions: Overcrowded living conditions, like those in densely populated urban areas or households with poor sanitation, can facilitate the transmission of H. pylori. Close contact with infected individuals and shared living spaces can increase the likelihood of infection.
• Hygiene and sanitation: Bacteria can easily spread through contaminated water and food. Areas with poor hygiene practices and no access to clean drinking water are at higher risk.
• Healthcare access: Regions with limited access to healthcare and medical resources may experience higher rates of H. pylori infection. 
• Genetic factors: Some genetic factors may make certain individuals more susceptible to H. pylori infection or its complications. 

What can you do about it?

The dangers that H. pylori brings are prevalent worldwide. What can you do to protect yourself and your family from getting infected? 

Be informed and aware

Knowledge about how H. pylori operates will bring you one step closer to preventing its infection and save you and your family from an untimely disease. Follow relevant pages and websites to stay informed about the latest research and developments in managing this bacteria.

Prioritize good hygiene

One simplest yet most effective way to lower your risk is by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands regularly, especially before meals and after using the restroom. It might sound basic, but it can make a huge difference.

Consume safe food and water

One of the main modes of transmission of H. pylori is through unsafe food and water. Make sure your food is safely cleaned and cooked. Also, check your drinking water source for cleanliness. This reduces your chances of ingesting H. pylori from contaminated food and water.

Seek medical guidance

If you experience persistent stomach issues or have a family history of H. pylori infection, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Healthcare professionals have developed various measures and detection tests to combat the spread of H. pylori. Some of these developments are: 

• Diagnostic Tests: Healthcare providers identify H. pylori infection by diagnostic tests like breath tests, blood tests, stool tests, and endoscopy. 
• Antibiotics: Once the H. pylori infection is confirmed, doctors can prescribe antibiotics to target and eliminate the bacteria from your digestive system.
• Medications: Medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are commonly given to reduce stomach acid production. These medications help manage conditions like peptic ulcers and prevent complications.
• Herbal Supplements: In addition to antibiotics and medications, herbal supplements and natural methods also help combat H. pylori infection. For example, Healing Blends’ MalCare helps eliminate parasites in the stomach and promotes a healthy GI tract.

Conclusion

H. pylori is a bacteria living in your stomach, posing a significant health threat worldwide. It burrows in your stomach lining and can live inside you for years without noticing.

This deadly bacteria infects more than half the world’s population and causes peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. There’s no question why it’s considered a global health threat.

Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Stay informed about H. pylori research and practice good hygiene. If you have stomach issues or a family history of infection, consult a healthcare professional. They can perform tests and provide treatments, including antibiotics and herbal supplements. Don’t let H. pylori ruin your stomach. Stay informed and get tested TODAY if you’re experiencing recurring digestive issues, and start making better choices for your health!