Stomach cancer
The UK NSC policy on Stomach cancer screening in adults
More Information
The stomach is an organ that links the oesophagus (gullet) and the duodenum (top of the small intestine). It is part of the digestive system, and its main function is to digest food that is eaten so that the nutrients can be easily absorbed into the body. It does this by contracting the muscles in the stomach wall that help to break down solid food. Cancer of the stomach, which is also known as gastric cancer, affects approximately 8,200 people in the UK every year. Stomach cancer tends to affect those over the age of 55, and it is almost twice as common among men than women.
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that inhabits various areas of the stomach and duodenum. It causes a chronic low-level inflammation of the stomach lining and is strongly linked to the development of duodenal and gastric ulcers and stomach cancer.
Image © Clinical Skills Ltd and provided courtesy of Cancerbackup.
» Read more about stomach cancer on NHS Choices
» Read more about stomach cancer on Cancerbackup
Policy Position
Screening for gastric cancer or screening for heliobacter pylori are not recommended.
This policy was reviewed in Jun 2010 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013/14, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
A Health Technology Assessment (HTA) report on the cost effectiveness of screening for helicobacter pylori was published in March 2003 (see below), and found that, while a national screening programme may be cost effective, more evidence was needed - a major drawback is the delay before benefits acrue.
Health Technology Assessment 2003; Vol. 7: No. 6. The cost-effectiveness of screening for Helicobacter pylori to reduce mortality and morbidity from gastric cancer and peptic ulcer disease: a discrete-event simulation model
Stakeholders
The British Association for Cancer Research
British Association of Surgical Oncology
Cancer Research UK
Rarer Cancers Forum
Royal College of Pathologists
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Royal College of Radiologists
Royal College of Surgeons
Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
