Abstract
Background: The reasons for higher gastric cancer incidence rates in indigenous populations are debated.
Methods: We quantify the role of Helicobacter pylori in excess gastric cancer incidence in Māori and Pacific men in New Zealand. Age-standardized gastric cancer rate ratios for 1981-2004 were calculated in Māori and Pacific men compared with European/other men born in 1926-1940 and in 1941-1955. Rate ratios were then compared with those restricted to H. pylori prevalent populations.
Results: H. pylori contributed substantially to excess gastric cancer incidence in Māori men (50%, 61%) and Pacific men (71%, 82%) in both cohorts.
Conclusions: Policy should focus on reducing the acquisition and prevalence of H. pylori infection in these populations.