H pylori screening in Japan

Last year I became aware of the fact that Japan periodically tests for Helicobacter Pylori, commonly known as H Pylori, in medical screening tests. I became aware of this fact after a friend's routine health check up for her job, conducted each year in April, indicated that she had at some point in her life, been exposed to the bacterium.

I was reminded of this fact today, when I heard that it is H Pylori screening day ピロリ菌検査の日 in Japan. It is an annual observance on April 14th. Not everyone will get tested on April 14th of course, but having a day like this is a reminder to people that the annual medical / health screenings are conducted around this time of year.

The reason the anniversary is on April 14th is because it is the date that two Australian researchers made a breakthrough discover in 1982. Because infection often begins in childhood and may show few symptoms for years, the day highlights the value of early testing and timely treatment.

Have you ever been tested for H pylori?