| [ Summary ] |
In spite of conventional population-based mass screenings for gastric cancer in Japan there has been a rapid increase in the number of non-Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infected individuals in younger and middle age groups. The resent approval of Hp eradication therapy for Hp-induced gastritis by the public health insurance agency has therefore required us to develop more efficient and effective approachs for mass screening. Serological assessment of Hp antibodies and pepsinogens may provide a useful risk-based approach for gastric cancer screening. However, the detection of gastric cancers must be carried out with screening employing fluorography or endoscopy. If the serological evaluation of gastric cancer risk can be provided along with population-based mass screening for gastric cancer, the establishment of a new system to link serological tests to visual tests is possible. However, accuracy control, sharing of personal data and financial burdens for municipalities may make these measures considerably difficult to implement. |