Embargoed for Release Until: Sunday, November 2, 1997, 6:00 p.m. Contact: Marie Kendra Tehonica (202) 973-1361
New Study Finds Cats Do Not Transmit Ulcer Bacteria to Humans
November 2, 1997, Chicago, IL - The common domestic cat is not a carrier for Helicobacter pylori, the bacterium that causes most ulcers, according to a new study released at the 62nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG). This news counters the suggestion that cats might be a reservoir and transmission source for H. pylori infection.
The study, supported by an ACG research grant, was run by Alan F. Cutler, M.D., of Sinai Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. Twenty-four cats underwent an upper GI endoscopy at a veterinary clinic to collect gastric juices and gastric mucosal biopsies. Dr. Cutler then examined the samples for H. pylori DNA and found no evidence suggesting the presence of this particular DNA. While this does not answer current scientific question as to where H. pylori harbors, it does rule out the domestic cat as a possible threat for infection.
About 20 million Americans will suffer from an ulcer once in their lifetimes. The most common symptom is a gnawing or burning pain in the upper abdomen, often occurring between meals. The use of antibiotics to fight the H. pylori infection is a major scientific advance and studies now show that antibiotics can permanently cure 80-90 percent of peptic (stomach) ulcers.
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The ACG was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standards in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meeting the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners.
Consumers can get more information on GI diseases through the following ACG-sponsored programs:
* 1-800-978-7666 (free brochures on common GI disorders, including ulcers, colon cancer, gallstones and liver disease)
* 1-800-HRT-BURN (free brochure and video on heartburn and GERD)
* www.acg.gi.org (ACG's web site)
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