Prevention Strategies for Gastric Cancer: A Global Perspective

Abstract

Despite the substantial burden of gastric cancer worldwide, population strategies for primary prevention have not been introduced in any country. Recognizing the causal role of Helicobacter pylori infection, there is increasing interest in population-based programs to eradicate the infection to prevent gastric cancer. Nonetheless, the paucity of available evidence on feasibility and effectiveness has prevented implementation of this approach. There are very few secondary prevention programs based on screening with endoscopy or radiography, notably in the Republic of Korea and Japan, two of the countries with the highest incidence rates of gastric cancer. In Korea, where the organized screening program is in place, survival rate of gastric cancer is as high as 67%. More research is needed to quantify the specific contribution of the screening program to observed declines in mortality rates. Gastric cancer screening is unlikely to be feasible in many Low-Middle Income Countries where the gastric cancer burden is high. Prevention strategies are still under development and the optimal approach may differ depending on local conditions and societal values. The present review gives an overview of the etiology and burden of the disease, and possible prevention strategies for countries and regions confronted with a significant burden of disease.

Identifying and targeting cancer stem cells in the treatment of gastric cancer

“…Globally, gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers are the second leading cause of death. The highest incidence of gastric/GEJ cancers is observed in Eastern Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, and South America 2, 3…”

Relationship between socioeconomic status and accessibility for endoscopic resection among gastric cancer patients: using National Health Insurance Cohort in Korea: poverty and endoscopic resection

“…They found that people of highest income are less likely to have UGI treatment (OR = 0.93, 95 % CI 0.64-1.35) and more likely to have endoscopy (OR = 1.42, 95 % CI 1.07-1.89) compared to the lowest income group. Several previous studies also describe an association between income and stage of gastric cancer when diagnosed [28][29][30].…”

Cobertura de la estrategia preventiva de cáncer gástrico en Chile: resultados de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2009-2010

“…Las mayores tasas se observan entre las regiones del Maule y Aysén 1 . Además, se ha descrito una mayor mortalidad por esta enfermedad a menor nivel socioeconómico 3,4 .…”