Relationship of Helicobacter Pylori Infection with Different Digestive System Malignant Tumors

Studies have shown a close association between Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric cancer while its relationship with other digestive system tumors has not been clarified. This study evaluated whether H. pylori infection affected risk for different digestive system malignancies. Sera were tested for lgG antibodies against H. pylori using quantitative enzyme immunoassay in 222 subjects: 82 patients with digestive system malignancies including gastroduodenal, pancreatic, hepatic, and colorectal carcinomas, 82 health controls, and 58 patients with other malignancies (cancer controls). H. pylori infection was noted in 58.8% of health controls, 73.2% of patient with digestive cancer and 82.8% of cancer controls. H. pylori infection imposed 2.8 folds increased risk for colorectal carcinoma. H. pylori infection was associated with increased but non-significant risk for developing genitourinary, bone, and breast cancers. Thus large-scale epidemiological studies to confirm the association and the possible causative role of H. pylori infection in the etiopathogenesis of various digestive and non-digestive system cancers are needed to help to develop preventive measures and appropriate interventions.