Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer riskVienaMed
Helicobacter pylori, gastroscopy and gastric cancer detection
Gastric cancer remains an important health problem in Central and Eastern Europe. In this region, the risk is higher than in the western continent, and one of the main factors involved is infection with Helicobacter pylori.
This bacteria can be present in the stomach for years, sometimes without obvious symptoms. Over time, it can cause chronic gastritis, ulcer and, in some cases, increase the risk of gastric cancer.
At VienaMed, early prevention and diagnosis are considered essential steps for patients experiencing persistent digestive symptoms or having risk factors.
Modern endoscopy changes diagnosis and treatment mode
Gastroenterology has evolved a lot in recent years.
Today, endoscopy is no longer just a method by which the doctor sees the inside of the stomach, esophagus or colon. In many situations, endoscopy can also become a minimally invasive treatment method.
With modern equipment, doctors can identify very small lesions in early stages. This is extremely important because some early forms of gastric or esophageal cancer can be removed endoscopic without major surgery.
For the patient, this may mean:
- reduced hospitalisation;
- faster recovery;
- lower risk of complications;
- avoid a classic operation, where the case allows.
By VienaMed, Romanian patients can receive support for access to modern investigations and gastroenterological consultations in partner clinics in Vienna.
Why is Helicobacter pylori so important?
Infection with Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common causes of chronic inflammation in the stomach.
In Central and Eastern Europe, this infection is more common than in Western Europe. Therefore, patients in Romania should pay more attention to the persistent digestive symptoms.
Signs that should not be ignored include:
- heartburn or stomach pain;
- frequent bloating;
- nausea;
- difficult digestion;
- unexplained weight loss;
- anaemia without a clear cause;
- lack of appetite;
- a family history of gastric cancer.
One important thing is that the infection can be detected by a simple test in the seat. If the result is positive, the doctor may recommend treatment and, depending on the case, gastroscopy.
When should a gastroscopy be done?
Gastroscopy is one of the most important investigations to evaluate the stomach and esophagus.
This allows the doctor to directly observe the digestive mucosa and identify possible inflammation, ulcers, precancerous lesions or early-stage tumours.
A gastroscopy may be recommended in particular when persistent symptoms occur or there are risk factors such as:
- Helicobacter pylori infection;
- older age;
- smoking;
- frequent alcohol consumption;
- family history of gastric cancer;
- stomach ulcer;
- anaemia;
- weight loss without explanation.
At VienaMed, patients receive support for organising necessary consultations, appointments and investigations in Austria.
Also read guide on gastroscopy and how to detect gastric cancer.
Early detection, treatment may be less invasive
The difference between an early diagnosis and a late diagnosis can be major.
When a lesion is discovered on time, it can sometimes be treated endoscopic. In the case of gastric cancer at a very early stage, the patient may have a rapid recovery and a short hospitalization.
Instead, when the disease is discovered late, treatment may involve complex surgery, longer hospitalization and a difficult recovery period.
That’s why the team VienaMed recommends that patients do not delay digestive investigations when symptoms persist.
Colorectal screening: another important component of prevention
In addition to gastric cancer, modern digestive medicine also emphasizes the prevention of colorectal cancer.
Colonoscopy allows the identification and removal of polyps before they turn into cancer. In many countries, the recommended age for starting colorectal screening has been reduced, as more and more cases also occur in younger patients.
Through medical collaborations in Vienna, VienaMed can support Romanian patients in need of full gastroenterological assessments, including gastroscopy, colonoscopy and second medical opinion.
VienaMed: medical support for Romanian patients in Austria
For many patients, accessing medical services abroad may seem complicated. Appointments, documents, translation and communication with doctors can become difficult without guidance.
VienaMed simplifies this process.
The VienaMed team provides support to Romanian patients in need of:
- medical consultations in Austria;
- modern investigations;
- the second medical opinion;
- gastroenterological diagnosis;
- support for communication with clinics and doctors;
- organization of the medical route.
In digestive disorders, time matters. A simple test, a gastroscopy made at the right time or a colonoscopy screening can make a difference.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for information purposes and does not replace the medical consultation. For personalized recommendations, diagnosis or treatment, address a specialist doctor. VienaMed team can support you in organizing the necessary medical consultations and stages in Vienna.