Gastric Ulcers Epidemiology Forecast 2025-2034

Gastric ulcers are a form of peptic ulcer disease, affecting 5 to 10% of individuals at some point in their lives. The likelihood of developing gastric ulcers rises with age and prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, smoking significantly increases the risk, making smokers twice as likely to develop gastric ulcers compared to non-smokers.

Gastric Ulcers Epidemiology Forecast Report Coverage

The Gastric Ulcers Epidemiology Forecast Report 2025-2034 delivers a comprehensive analysis of the condition’s prevalence and associated demographic factors. It projects future incidence and prevalence trends across diverse population groups, considering key variables such as age, gender, and gastric ulcers type. The report highlights change in prevalence over time and offers data-driven forecasts based on influencing factors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth overview of the disease, along with historical and projected epidemiological data for eight key markets:

The United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and India.

Gastric Ulcers:

Disease Overview

Gastric ulcers are open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach, often caused by an imbalance between stomach acids and protective factors. They are a type of peptic ulcer disease and can result in symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and indigestion. Risk factors include prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and infections caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Gastric ulcers can lead to serious complications if untreated, including bleeding, perforation, or obstruction. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and antibiotics if an infection is present.

Epidemiology Overview

The epidemiology section of gastric ulcers provides insights into the patient population, covering historical data to present-day trends, as well as future projections across the eight major markets. The Research presents both current and anticipated trends by analysing a variety of studies. The report also explores the diagnosed patient pool and their trends, with data segmented into categories such as total cases in males and females, and diagnosed cases across different age groups and patient demographics.

• Gastric ulcers, a form of peptic ulcer disease, affect 5% to 10% of individuals during their lifetime, although this figure may be an underestimation due to asymptomatic cases.
• Studies indicate that smokers are twice as likely to develop gastric ulcers compared to non-smokers. Furthermore, about 25% of long-term users of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are expected to develop gastric ulcers.
• Helicobacter pylori infection is responsible for 70%-90% of gastric ulcers, with the risk of infection and peptic ulcer disease increasing with age.
• Peptic ulcer disease affects approximately 11%-14% of men and 8%-11% of women over their lifetime.

Gastric Ulcers:

Treatment Overview

The treatment of gastric ulcers aims to reduce stomach acid, promote healing of the ulcer, and address underlying causes such as Helicobacter pylori infection or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Treatment strategies typically involve medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery. The main goal is to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of recurrence.

1. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed to treat gastric ulcers by reducing stomach acid production. This helps relieve pain and promotes ulcer healing by allowing the stomach lining to recover. PPIs, such as omeprazole and lansoprazole, are highly effective in managing ulcers and are typically used for 4 to 8 weeks. These drugs also help prevent the formation of new ulcers and reduce the risk of complications like bleeding. Long-term use should be monitored due to potential side effects, such as nutrient deficiencies and gastrointestinal infections.

2. Antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori Infection

If a Helicobacter pylori infection is present, antibiotics are essential to eradicate the bacteria and promote ulcer healing. A combination of antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, amoxicillin, and metronidazole, is typically prescribed. The course of treatment usually lasts for 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection. Eradicating the bacteria not only helps heal the gastric ulcer but also reduces the risk of recurrence. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent resistance and ensure successful treatment.

3. H2-Receptor Antagonists

H2-receptor antagonists, such as ranitidine and famotidine, work by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach, which reduces acid production. These medications help relieve ulcer pain and promote healing by lowering stomach acidity. H2-receptor antagonists are often prescribed for less severe cases of gastric ulcers or in combination with other treatments, such as PPIs. While effective in reducing symptoms, they may be less potent than PPIs in terms of acid suppression. Long-term use of these medications can lead to tolerance, reducing their effectiveness over time.

4. Antacids and Antisecretory Agents

Antacids, such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide, can help neutralise stomach acid and provide relief from ulcer-related pain and discomfort. These over-the-counter medications offer quick symptom relief but do not promote ulcer healing in the long term. For sustained treatment, antisecretory agents like misoprostol may be used to protect the stomach lining from acid damage and promote healing. Misoprostol is often recommended for patients who need to continue taking NSAIDs but are at risk of developing ulcers. It helps by stimulating mucus production and increasing blood flow to the stomach lining.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to medications, lifestyle changes play a significant role in managing gastric ulcers. Avoiding irritants like alcohol, smoking, and spicy or acidic foods can help reduce ulcer flare-ups. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can reduce stomach acid production and provide relief. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can also be beneficial, as stress is known to exacerbate ulcer symptoms. In cases of NSAID-induced ulcers, switching to alternative pain management options or using protective medications may be recommended.

Gastric Ulcers:

Burden Analysis

Gastric ulcers significantly affect an individual's quality of life, causing persistent pain, discomfort, and digestive issues. The condition can lead to difficulty in eating, sleep disturbances, and reduced ability to carry out daily activities due to abdominal pain and nausea. Chronic ulcers may also cause emotional distress, including anxiety and depression, particularly if complications such as bleeding or perforation occur. Treatment often requires long-term medication and lifestyle modifications, placing both economic and psychological burdens on patients. Additionally, recurring symptoms and the potential for flare-ups contribute to a diminished overall quality of life for those affected.

Key Epidemiology Trends

The epidemiology of gastric ulcers has been evolving, influenced by several environmental, lifestyle, and healthcare-related factors. These changes have led to emerging patterns that help healthcare providers better understand the disease's burden and design more effective treatment strategies. The following five trends in the epidemiology of gastric ulcers offer insight into how this condition is changing globally.

1. Increase in Gastric Ulcer Incidence Among Older Adults

One of the most notable epidemiological trends is the increasing incidence of gastric ulcers among older adults. The risk of developing gastric ulcers tends to increase with age due to factors such as the weakening of the stomach lining and a greater likelihood of taking medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for chronic conditions such as arthritis. Moreover, the age-related decline in the body’s ability to heal and regenerate tissue contributes to prolonged ulceration. As populations around the world age, healthcare systems will face a growing burden from managing gastric ulcers in the elderly.

2. Higher Rates of Gastric Ulcers in Smokers

Smoking continues to be a significant risk factor for the development of gastric ulcers. Epidemiological data consistently show that smokers are at a higher risk of developing ulcers compared to non-smokers, with smoking increasing the likelihood by approximately double. This is because smoking weakens the stomach’s ability to protect itself from acidic damage, reduces blood flow to the stomach lining, and increases the production of stomach acid. With smoking rates still prevalent in various regions, particularly in developing countries, the burden of gastric ulcers remains a pressing issue. Public health campaigns targeting smoking cessation are essential for reducing this preventable risk factor.

3. Role of Helicobacter pylori in Gastric Ulcer Prevalence

Helicobacter pylori infection remains one of the most significant contributors to the development of gastric ulcers. Recent trends indicate that despite declines in prevalence in some developed countries due to better sanitation and treatment, Helicobacter pylori infection rates are still relatively high in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Infection with Helicobacter pylori is responsible for 70%-90% of all gastric ulcer cases, making it a central focus of treatment and prevention strategies. The growing understanding of the role of Helicobacter pylori has led to more widespread screening and eradication therapies, which have proven effective in reducing ulcer rates.

4. Impact of Long-Term Use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

The increasing use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the management of chronic pain conditions, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, has led to a rise in gastric ulcers, especially in middle-aged and older populations. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which help protect the stomach lining from acid. This inhibition leaves the stomach vulnerable to irritation and ulcer formation. Recent trends show that many patients who take NSAIDs for extended periods are at an increased risk of developing gastric ulcers, highlighting the need for more cautious prescribing practices and protective measures, such as proton pump inhibitors or alternative pain management options.

5. Geographic Disparities in Gastric Ulcer Prevalence

Epidemiological trends in gastric ulcers also reveal significant geographic disparities. In developing regions, such as parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, the prevalence of gastric ulcers remains higher, primarily due to Helicobacter pylori infection, poor access to healthcare, and less widespread use of proton pump inhibitors. In contrast, the incidence of gastric ulcers in developed nations has decreased, thanks to advances in healthcare, including improved diagnostic methods, the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, and the widespread use of preventive medications. These geographical differences indicate the importance of tailored public health interventions based on regional risk factors and healthcare capabilities.

Analysis By Region

The epidemiology of gastric ulcers varies across countries and regions due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes towards pain, and access to pain management therapies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Key regions include:

• The United States
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Japan
• India

These regions exhibit distinct epidemiological trends, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within their healthcare systems.

The epidemiology of gastric ulcers differs across countries due to factors such as dietary habits, healthcare availability, prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, smoking rates, and genetic predispositions. In The United States, an estimated 1% to 6% of the population is affected by peptic ulcers.

Key Questions Answered

• How do variations in healthcare access impact the early diagnosis and management of gastric ulcers across different regions?
• What role does socioeconomic status play in the prevalence of gastric ulcers, and how can healthcare systems address these disparities?
• How has the global decline in Helicobacter pylori infection rates impacted the incidence of gastric ulcers in developed nations?
• In what ways do dietary habits influence the geographic variation in gastric ulcer prevalence, particularly in low-income countries?
• How do environmental factors, such as pollution and climate change, potentially affect the prevalence of gastric ulcers?
• What are the implications of the increasing use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the global burden of gastric ulcers?
• How do genetic factors contribute to an individual's susceptibility to gastric ulcers, and can this be used in targeted prevention strategies?
• What are the emerging trends in the incidence of gastric ulcers among younger populations, and what factors may be contributing to this shift?
• How do public health policies and awareness campaigns influence the prevention and management of gastric ulcers in different countries?
• What is the relationship between gastric ulcers and comorbid conditions, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, in terms of disease progression and outcomes?

Scope of the Report

• The report covers a detailed analysis of signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and classification/types of gastric ulcers based on several factors.
• The gastric ulcers epidemiology forecast report covers data for the eight major markets (the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and India)
• The report helps to identify the patient population, the unmet needs of gastric ulcers are highlighted along with an assessment of the disease's risk and burden.