A new study has identified a possible link between infection with the common stomach bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and an increased risk of bowel cancer, raising further questions about the bacterium’s potential effects beyond the stomach.
H. pylori is a widespread bacterium that infects the stomach. Most people with the infection experience no obvious symptoms, although it can cause inflammation of the stomach lining and contribute to the development of ulcers in some cases.
Researchers examined the possible association between H. pylori infection and bowel cancer by analyzing the relationship between exposure to the bacterium and cancer cases.
The study found that people infected with H. pylori had a 1.59-times higher risk of developing bowel cancer than those who had not been infected.
The findings are notable because H. pylori is already an established cause of stomach cancer. However, its possible connection with bowel cancer has remained uncertain and has been the subject of ongoing research.
According to experts, many people acquire H. pylori during childhood. The bacterium can spread through contact with infected saliva, vomit or stool.
Researchers said the findings highlight the need for further studies to better understand the relationship between H. pylori and bowel cancer.
Importantly, the study shows an association rather than proving that H. pylori directly causes bowel cancer. Further research will be required to determine whether the infection plays a direct role in the development of the disease.