Analysis of alcohol consumption on gastric cancer in different infectious states of Helicobacter pylori in the Wuwei population, China.

Abstract Aims The study aims to examine the correlation between alcohol consumption and the risk of gastric cancer in the Wuwei population with different levels of H. pylori infection. Methods The study included 3123 participants aged 40–70 years who had resided in Wuwei City for at least 5 years. Participants completed questionnaires on personal information, diet, alcohol consumption, family and medical history, and H. pylori detection. All participants underwent 13C-UBT testing for H. pylori infection, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and pathology were performed. Testing was conducted before diagnosis to avoid recall bias. Results Alcohol increases the risk of gastric cancer, but it decreases the risk in those who are infected. Those aged 50–70 without H. pylori who consume alcohol and smokers who quit with H. pylori infection have a higher risk of gastric cancer. Conclusion Alcohol consumption represents a significant risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. This risk is particularly pronounced with advancing age and following the eradication of H. pylori.