From screening to surveillance: integrated prevention of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i>-associated gastric cancer in the Asia-Pacific region.

Abstract

Gastric cancer remains a significant cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality in the Asia-Pacific region, where <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> infection is common and national cancer screening programs are widely implemented. Eradication therapy has been shown to reduce gastric cancer risk; however, residual risk persists in individuals with established precancerous changes. In addition, screening and surveillance practices vary across countries according to epidemiological and healthcare contexts. This review summarizes current approaches to the prevention continuum strategies of <i>H. pylori</i>-associated gastric cancer in the Asia-Pacific region. Drawing on representative national experiences, we discuss how screening, eradication, and post-eradication surveillance have been implemented across diverse epidemiologic and healthcare settings. By integrating these complementary strategies from infection to cancer care, we highlight the rationale for different national prevention models and the remaining challenges in gastric cancer control.