Core Insights - Gastric cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, primarily caused by chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori, which is preventable through effective treatment [1][4] - The incidence of gastric cancer is rising among younger populations (under 50 years), and due to aging and population growth, the number of cases and deaths is expected to increase in the coming decades, potentially reversing recent efforts to reduce mortality and incidence rates [2] Summary by Sections - **Global Estimates**: A study published by IARC/WHO in Nature Medicine estimated that among the global population born between 2008-2017, approximately 15.8 million individuals are expected to develop gastric cancer in their lifetime, with 76% (11.9 million cases) attributable to Helicobacter pylori infection [3][8] - **Prevention Strategies**: Most gastric cancers, particularly non-cardia gastric cancer, are caused by chronic Helicobacter pylori infection, which can be prevented through a combination therapy of antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors. A systematic review indicates that treatment can prevent gastric cancer in Helicobacter pylori-positive individuals [4] - **Screening Recommendations**: In 2013, IARC/WHO recommended that countries explore population-based screening and treatment programs for Helicobacter pylori based on local disease burden and cost-effectiveness analyses [5] - **Implementation Challenges**: Despite the high-risk areas, there has been little attempt to implement such population-level projects. The development of a Helicobacter pylori vaccine could be a powerful tool for preventing gastric cancer, but there seems to be a lack of motivation to advance its research [6] - **Future Burden Projections**: The study predicts that without intervention, 15.6 million individuals born between 2008-2017 will be diagnosed with gastric cancer, with 11.9 million cases (76%) linked to Helicobacter pylori infection. It is estimated that 10.6 million new cases (68%) will occur in Asia, with India and China expected to account for 6.5 million cases [8] - **Impact of Interventions**: The research highlights the importance of Helicobacter pylori management in gastric cancer prevention, showing that if screening and treatment interventions are 100% effective, gastric cancer cases could be reduced by up to 75%. Effectiveness rates of 90% and 80% would result in reductions of 67.5% and 60%, respectively [10] - **Call to Action**: The research team calls for increased investment in gastric cancer prevention, particularly through population-wide Helicobacter pylori screening and treatment programs to reduce the global burden of gastric cancer [11]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of cancer prevention and awareness, particularly focusing on gastric cancer, which poses significant public health challenges due to its high incidence and mortality rates. It highlights the need for early detection and intervention to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Group 1: Causes of Gastric Cancer - Gastric cancer is influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, categorized into strong, moderate, and weak correlations [2] - The primary strong correlation factor is Helicobacter pylori infection, responsible for approximately 60%-70% of gastric cancer cases. Early eradication can reduce the risk [2] - Genetic predisposition is also a strong factor, with a family history of gastric cancer increasing the risk by 2-3 times [2] - Modifiable lifestyle factors, such as poor dietary habits and smoking, are moderately correlated with gastric cancer risk [2][3] - Weakly correlated factors include chronic gastric conditions and occupational exposures [3] Group 2: Early Warning Signs - Early symptoms of gastric cancer can be confused with common gastric issues. Key warning signs include [4] - Digestive tract bleeding, indicated by black tarry stools or blood in vomit [5] - Unexplained weight loss exceeding 10% in a short period, accompanied by loss of appetite and fatigue [6] - Persistent abdominal pain that does not improve with medication [7] - Abdominal masses or swollen lymph nodes in the upper left abdomen [8] - Difficulty swallowing, especially if the tumor affects the lower esophagus [9] Group 3: Prevention and Screening - Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, with over 90% cure rates for early-stage gastric cancer [11] - Regular screening via gastroscopy is recommended, especially for individuals over 45, with annual checks advised [11] - Lifestyle modifications are crucial for prevention, including a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and regular physical activity [11] - The article stresses that gastric cancer prevention requires lifelong commitment from individuals, families, and society [11]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of cancer prevention and control, particularly focusing on gastric cancer, and highlights the upcoming educational initiatives aimed at raising public awareness and improving health outcomes [1]. Group 1: Cancer Prevention and Awareness - The 31st National Cancer Prevention Week will take place from April 15 to 21, 2025, aiming to promote cancer prevention knowledge and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their health [1]. - The "People's Good Doctor · Jinshan Camellia Plan" series will feature experts discussing cancer prevention and treatment, fostering a supportive social atmosphere for cancer control [1]. Group 2: Gastric Cancer Focus - Gastric cancer is identified as a common malignant tumor with high incidence and mortality rates, posing significant challenges to public health and causing substantial suffering for patients and families [1]. - Understanding the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of gastric cancer is crucial for enhancing public health awareness, promoting early detection, and improving patient quality of life [1]. Group 3: Expert Participation - Dr. Chen Xiaobing and Dr. Lu Jun will participate in a live session on April 28, 2025, to address questions related to gastric cancer prevention and treatment [1][2]. - Dr. Chen Xiaobing is a senior physician and a recognized expert in oncology, while Dr. Lu Jun is a vice chief physician with extensive experience in gastric surgery [2]. Group 4: Accessing the Live Session - The live session can be accessed through the People's Good Doctor App, where users can click on the "Famous Doctor Live" section to watch [3]. - Additional health education resources and interactive sessions with top doctors are available through the People's Good Doctor App and the People's Health public WeChat account [4].