Detecting bacteria that cause stomach cancer through breathing

Urea breath tests can detect HP bacteria that cause stomach cancer.

One of the most common routes of transmission of HP (Helicobacter Pylori) is from the eating route, according to Health. If a family member is positive for stomach bacteria, the chances are high that other members of the family are also infected. If a spouse has a positive HP, the probability of their spouse also being positive is up to 68%, this risk is 40% for females.

In Vietnam, the rate of HP infection is much higher, up to 70% in adults.(Artwork: Health).

According to research in Vietnam, the rate of HP infection is much higher, up to 70% in adults. This situation is due to the common eating habits of bowls, food plates and the same cup. Even patients have very good examination and treatment, the possibility of re-infection of stomach HP is still very high from other family members. Therefore, experts recommend that patients want to treat HP completely, so it is necessary to test for all family members and treat it together.

In the past, to find traces of HP bacteria required gastroscopy to upset patients. Currently, the method of testing HP through 14C urea breath makes it easier to detect this bacterium. Patients only need to take one tablet, sit and wait for 15 minutes and then blow on the test card for 3 to 5 minutes. The result will be displayed shortly thereafter. This test is based on the principle of the presence of urea enzymes produced by HP bacteria. In the presence of urea, the oral distribution of 14C urea will hydrolyze into ammonia (NH ₃ ) and 14CO ₂ . When the 14CO ₂ is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is pushed out through the lungs. Only the number of 14CO ₂ tested in exhaled breath helps detect HP bacteria.

Cases of positive detection of HP bacteria can be cured but it takes time, requiring patients to be persistent. At the same time, it is necessary to treat both family members who also have HP infection to avoid recurrence and cross-infection.