Organizations representing GI medical societies and other advocacy organizations are asking Congress to request that the Department of Defense conduct a cost and feasibility study evaluating H. pylori screening among members of the Armed Forces and veterans, with the goal of implementing a screening program for at-risk service members and veterans.
Active-duty service members face the risk of contracting H. pylori during deployment outside the continental United States—especially in regions where H. pylori prevalence is high—or due to crowded living conditions. Given the increased risk of stomach cancer associated with H. pylori, an H. pylori testing program for members of the Armed Forces, along with clear processes and protocols for treatment when individuals test positive, could help to prevent stomach cancer and associated costs to the health care system, as well as improve military readiness.