[Hinews] Eradicating Helicobacter pylori infections may not only prevent gastric diseases such as peptic ulcers and gastric cancer but also lower the risk of osteoporosis, particularly among women over 50, according to a long-term South Korean study. The findings, released on August 18, 2025, by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s National Institute of Health, the broader protective benefits of eradication therapy.

​
Study results show H. pylori eradication therapy reduces osteoporosis risk in women over 50 by 29%. (Image: ClipArtKorea)
Study results show H. pylori eradication therapy reduces osteoporosis risk in women over 50 by 29%. (Image: ClipArtKorea)


The research, conducted over 20 years from 2003 to 2023, followed 846 adults tested for H. pylori. Of these, 730 received antibiotic treatment to eliminate the bacterium, while 116 did not. Over an average follow-up of 10 years, osteoporosis developed in 24.5% of the treated group compared to 34.5% of the untreated group, showing a 29% relative risk reduction in osteoporosis among those who received eradication therapy.

The protective effect was most pronounced in women over 50, with no significant effect observed in men.
Helicobacter pylori, which infects more than half the global population, is a primary cause of gastritis and stomach cancer. Recent studies suggest it may also drive systemic inflammation, potentially contributing to chronic conditions beyond the digestive system.

Osteoporosis, a major public health concern, affects about one in three South Korean women over 50, significantly increasing the risk of fractures, mortality, and substantial healthcare costs.

“This study provides robust evidence that managing H. pylori infections can help prevent chronic conditions extending beyond the gastrointestinal system,” said Hyun Young Park, director of the National Institute of Health. “Postmenopausal women, in particular, should consider screening and treatment for H. pylori.”

Park noted that future research will explore sex-specific factors to develop targeted prevention and treatment guidelines. The study was led by Professor Na Young Kim at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH).

키워드

#OsteoporosisPrevention#HPyloriTreatment#SNUBHResearch#여성질환케어#장기추적연구
저작권자 © Hinews 무단전재 및 재배포 금지
ad