Helicobacter pylori is a common bacteria. According
to a study done by the Faculty of Medicine,
HKU, half the population in Hong Kong has been
infected by the bacteria at some time. Helicobacter
pylori can cause the most common stomach problems,
such as stomach cramps, bloating, gastritis,
gastric reflux, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers,
etc. In severe cases, it can also lead to stomach
cancer.
Helicobacter pylori can be transmitted through
drinking water, saliva, or undercooked food.
Therefore, carriers of the bacteria can often
transmit it to other family members. To find
out if you have been infected with Helicobacter
pylori, testing by Helicobacter pylori may not
be sufficient. The more dependable way is to
do a Urea Breath Test, which is also safer than
the invasive endoscope (gastroscopy). The result
of the UBT already provides enough information
for diagnosis and treatment option.
