A breakthrough in ulcer treatment. (includes related article on testing for H. pylori bacteria)

Try answering the following questions. 1. The major cause of ulcers is

a) drugs such as aspirin

b) stress

c) spicy foods and caffeine

d) bacteria

e) a genetic predisposition

f) b & c

2. The most effective treatment for the great

majority of ulcers involves

a) antacid drugs such as Mylanta and Tums,

which neutralize stomach acid

b) antibiotics

c) drugs that suppress acid secretion in the

stomach, including Tagamet and Zantac

d) a combination of a & c

e) a special diet combined with stress reduction

and c

3. True or false? Once an ulcer is cured, recurrence

is unlikely.

If you missed one or more (the answers are at the bottom of the page), you're not alone. Even many of the 25 million Americans who suffer from ulcers are lacking in awareness about the causes and treatment of the problem--a knowledge gap that often stands in the way of a successful cure. According to a recent survey of ulcer sufferers, 90 percent mistakenly believe stress causes the problem, and 60 percent incorrectly think it's poor diet.

Most disturbingly, 90 percent have never even heard of the real culprit behind ulcers, the discovery of which has revolutionized treatment. To boost awareness and understanding of the disease the American Digestive Health Foundation, which represents more than 10,000 gastroenterologists nationwide, recently launched the Ulcer Education Campaign. The goal is to set the record straight on a number of issues that have a major impact on the lives of ulcer sufferers. Who is at risk of getting an ulcer? What kind of dietary regimen is appropriate for people with ulcers? How is stress involved? What is the best course of treatment?

It's not spicy food or your boss

Mention…