The contribution of Helicobacter pylori to excess gastric cancer in Indigenous and Pacific men: a birth cohort estimate

Gastric Cancer. 2017 Jul;20(4):752-755. doi: 10.1007/s10120-016-0671-8. Epub 2016 Nov 16.

Abstract

Background: The reasons for higher gastric cancer incidence rates in indigenous populations are debated.

Methods: We quantify the role of Helicobacter pylori in excess gastric cancer incidence in Māori and Pacific men in New Zealand. Age-standardized gastric cancer rate ratios for 1981-2004 were calculated in Māori and Pacific men compared with European/other men born in 1926-1940 and in 1941-1955. Rate ratios were then compared with those restricted to H. pylori prevalent populations.

Results: H. pylori contributed substantially to excess gastric cancer incidence in Māori men (50%, 61%) and Pacific men (71%, 82%) in both cohorts.

Conclusions: Policy should focus on reducing the acquisition and prevalence of H. pylori infection in these populations.

Keywords: Chronic infection; Disparity; Gastric cancer; Inequity; Noncardia cancer.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Distribution
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cohort Studies
  • Helicobacter Infections / complications
  • Helicobacter Infections / epidemiology*
  • Helicobacter pylori*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacific Islands / epidemiology
  • Population Groups
  • Stomach Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Stomach Neoplasms / microbiology*