A recent study conducted in China revealed that approximately 27% of the urban population harbors a bacterial infection linked to an elevated risk of gastric cancer. This infection is caused by Helicobacter pylori, a stomach bacterium responsible for ulcers and stomach cancer in certain individuals.

The study, published in the journal Lancet Microbe, involved over 12,000 participants from 52 Chinese cities. The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection was found to be lower than the global average of 50%, with men exhibiting a slightly higher infection rate than women. The highest infection rate was observed among individuals aged 30 to 49.

Researchers also assessed the resistance of infected individuals to two commonly used antibiotics, clarithromycin and levofloxacin. Alarmingly, they discovered that 50.8% of participants were resistant to clarithromycin, and 47.2% were resistant to levofloxacin. Drug resistance was particularly prevalent among individuals aged 40 to 60, potentially due to increased antibiotic exposure and susceptibility to respiratory and urinary tract infections.

The study highlights the urgent need to address antibiotic resistance among infected patients. Experts emphasize the importance of tailoring treatments based on drug sensitivity to enhance the success of infection eradication. The widespread use of antibiotics and poor adherence to prescribed regimens contribute to the rise in drug resistance.