Investigations of families of patients diagnosed with gastric carcinoma in Bulgaria

Abstract

Background: To identify the prevalence of H. pylori in patients with gastric carcinoma and their first-degree relatives, the possible risks of acquisition of infection and developing of gastric cancer. Methods: We investigated 31 families (total 75 human volunteers) with a family member, diagnosed as a gastric carcinoma patient and their first-degree relatives. Patients were tested forH. pylori stool antigen by "DIAQUICK" H. pylori Stool Cassette-a rapid test for the qualitative detection of H. pylori antigen. A questionnaire for sociodemographic and lifestyle possible risk factors for acquisition of infection and for developing of gastric cancer was completed by 75 people. The statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's test and ANOVA. Results: Fisher's Test shows that smoking (χ 2 = 4.172; р = 0.386), animals at home (χ2 = 0.376; p = 0.871), and diet (χ 2 = 2.166; р = 0.725) are not significantly associated; however, the family history of gastric cancer (χ 2 = 56.886; р = 0.001), level of education of patients (χ 2 = 17.374; р = 0.004) and sex (χ 2 = 6.669; р = 0.039) are significantly associated with the acquisition of infection and the developing of gastric cancer in patients and their first-degree relatives. Conclusion: Concern authorities should develop and implement strategies to improve educational status, basic sanitary facilities, and socioeconomic status to minimize H. pylori infection.