Helicobacter Pylori Screening and Treatment

Dr. Tan Chun Hai
Dual Fellowship-Trained, Upper Gastrointestinal Specialist
MBBS (Melbourne), Masters of Medicine (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (General Surgery)
Table of Content
What is Helicobacter Pylori?

Helicobacter Pylori, more commonly known as H.Pylori, is a type of bacteria that infects the stomach.
It thrives in the acidic environment of your stomach and can cause inflammation and ulcers along the stomach lining.
Helicobacter Pylori is a common bacterium affecting up to 31% of Singaporeans, although an infected person may never experience any symptoms and is unaware of its presence.
Complications of Helicobacter Pylori

Most people may not experience significant issues from an H. pylori infection. However, in some individuals, the bacteria can damage or irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to complications such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, stomach ulcers, and, in severe cases, stomach cancer.
It is estimated that up to 80% of stomach cancer cases are attributed to an H.Pylori infection.

Symptoms of H.Pylori
Most people with an H. pylori infection may not experience any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they often arise years after the initial infection. Possible symptoms include:
- Abdominal Pain
- Abdominal Bloating
- Loss of Appetite
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Dark / Bloody Stools
- Peptic Ulcer Disease (gastric or duodenal ulcers)
- Gastritis / Duodenitis

Who is at Risk?
Most people contract Helicobacter pylori during early childhood. However, adults are not entirely immune to infection, as certain living conditions can increase the risk of transmission:
- Living with an infected person
- Living in overcrowded conditions
- Living in unsanitary conditions
- Lack of access to clean water
- Living in a developing country

What Causes H.Pylori Infection?
The exact cause of Helicobacter pylori infections is not yet fully understood, but the bacteria are known to have existed for thousands of years. They can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, utensils, saliva, and other bodily fluids.
As such, certain living conditions may increase the risk of infection. If you suspect an H. pylori infection, consult our doctor for medical advice.
An endoscopy may be performed to investigate your symptoms, followed by treatment to prevent severe complications.
Most gastric cancer cases are linked to H.Pylori infection.
Take the first step towards early diagnosis and treatment—consult our doctor today.
Overview
How is Helicobacter Pylori Diagnosed?
Helicobacter pylori can be diagnosed using several methods, either individually or in combination:
- Endoscopy or Gastroscopy: This is the most effective method for detecting abnormalities in the stomach. It allows for direct visualisation and biopsy to confirm the presence of H. pylori. An endoscopy is particularly recommended for patients with severe or persistent digestive symptoms or when investigating other gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, or potential stomach cancer.
- Urea Breath Test (UBT): This non-invasive test involves swallowing a specialised solution. If H. pylori is present, the bacteria break down the solution, releasing carbon dioxide, which can be detected in the patient’s breath.
- Blood and Stool Tests: Blood tests can identify antibodies against H. pylori, while stool tests detect the presence of the bacteria. These methods are less invasive and may be used as supportive diagnostic tools.
Treatment Options
The treatment of Helicobacter Pylori depends on the severity of your symptoms and if it has progressed to more serious conditions such as peptic ulcer disease or stomach cancer.
Generally, H.Pylori infections are treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing proton pump inhibitors, allowing your stomach lining to heal.
You will be advised to take your medication regularly to ensure complete eradication of the infection and prevent it from recurring.
20+ Years of Clinical Experience
Dr Tan Chun Hai (陈俊海医生)
Upper Gastrointestinal, Bariatric & General Surgeon
Endoscopy & Minimally-Invasive Surgery Specialist
Dr. Tan Chun Hai is a dual fellowship-trained specialist in Laparoscopic (keyhole) Stomach Cancer Surgery and Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery. He is proficient in minimally invasive surgical techniques, treating conditions such as gallstones, appendicitis, GERD, and upper gastrointestinal cancers of the stomach and oesophagus.
In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr Tan specialises in performing endoscopies and managing a wide range of digestive disorders. These include abdominal pain, bloating, heartburn and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
When applicable, Dr. Tan provides same-day treatment within a few hours of diagnosis. Dr. Tan subscribes to a less invasive practice, promoting less postoperative pain and shorter hospital stays.
Have a digestive health concern?
Send us your enquiry or give us a call at 6250 5610
For emergencies after hours, send us a text via WhatsApp > head to Gleneagles Urgent Care Centre and request for Dr. Tan Chun Hai
Our Clinic: 6A Napier Road, Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block, #05-36A, Singapore 258500

Frequently Asked Questions
H. pylori infections can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene and maintaining sanitation practices within your household.
Keeping your hand clean, eating hygienically prepared food, and drinking water from a safe and clean source can reduce your risk of this infection.
In most cases, patients can fully recover from a Helicobacter Pylori infection with effective treatment. Generally, the infection is treated with the prescription of 2 antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors, reducing the acid in your stomach.
With the eradication of the bacteria, symptoms like stomach ulcers and indigestion typically resolve completely. Eradicating H.Pylori also reduces one’s risk of developing stomach cancer in the future. Following your doctor's treatment plan and completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial for achieving a full recovery. Follow-up tests may be recommended by your doctor to confirm eradication of the bacteria.
The cost of the Urea Breath Test for Helicobacter pylori starts from $180 SGD, while a consultation with our specialist begins at $200 SGD.
Prices are subject to GST.
A specialist consultation is essential to accurately evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable diagnostic and treatment options.
The fees for a surgeon or specialist performing a gastroscopy typically range from $650 to $1,100 SGD* (excluding GST, facility charges, and consumables).
The total cost may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
Gastroscopy expenses may be subsidised through Medisave or insurance, subject to pre-approval.
*This fee range is based on MOH benchmarks and does not include additional procedures, if required.
For a detailed cost estimate and breakdown, please contact our clinic.
Patients who undergo an endoscopy for H. pylori screening may utilise insurance to subsidise the cost, as the procedure has an assigned TOSP (Table of Surgical Procedures) code.
Before your procedure, our clinic staff will assist with pre-authorisations and help you access any available subsidies.
For insurance-related enquiries, please feel free to contact us and consult your insurance provider for further details.