It has been scientifically proven that gastric and duodenal ulcers are linked to an infection by a bacterium known as Helicobacter pylori . This is one of the most common chronic infections in humans worldwide, with over 50% of the world's population being infected.

Helicobacter pylori is associated with 95% of duodenal ulcers and 80% of gastric ulcers. Clinical studies have shown that eradicating Helicobacter pylori is effective in eliminating or reducing the recurrence of ulcers and may also lower the risk of gastric cancer. The Gastroenterology Society of Australia (GESA) recommends testing for Helicobacter pylori in all patients with gastric or duodenal ulcers.

For patient's who suffer from ulcer related symptoms, e.g. heart burn, stomach bloating, nausea, detection of this bacterium is now possible. Some tests are conducted during a gastroscopy, where a biopsy from your stomach may be removed in order to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori . You will need to see a specialist for this procedure.

There are other non-invasive tests that can detect the presence of the bacterium via a breath, which takes only ten minutes. See your local doctor for more information.

If you are positive for Helicobacter pylori infection, then rest assured because treatment is available in the form of a simple course of antibiotics. This treatment usually lasts for up to a week and has a very good success rate.

Occasionally, there may be some individuals where the first-course of treatment may not be so successful and you may be asked to go on to a different course of treatment.

It is recommended that after any treatment, a Helicobacter pylori breath-test be done to follow up and ensure total eradication. How Helicobacter pylori is transmitted is still unknown but it is possible for family members to infect one another. Therefore it is recommended that all family members be tested to ensure total eradication.