Association between proton-pump inhibitors and the risk of gastric cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be associated with gastric cancer, but studies in recent years have proven still inconsistent results. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between PPI use and gastric cancer.

METHODS

Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library were searched for studies published up to 15th February 2022. Studies on the association between PPI and the risk of gastric cancer, pooled the odds ratios (ORs) using a random-effects model. The subgroup analysis for study design, site of gastric cancer, and the duration of PPI use was performed. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and Cochran's Q statistics.

RESULTS

Sixteen cohorts and case-control studies were included. PPI use was significantly associated with gastric cancer (OR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.28-2.40). The subgroup analysis found a significant risk increase in non-cardia gastric cancer (OR: 2.14, 95%CI: 1.50-3.07). There was no duration-dependent effect of PPI use and gastric cancer risk (< 1 year: OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.41-4.64, I2 = 98%; 1-3 years: OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.26-1.71, I2 = 41%; > 3 years: OR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.16-2.14, I2 = 74%).

CONCLUSIONS

PPIs were significantly associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. However, this association does not confirm causation. Several well-design studies are needed to confirm the findings in the future.