People still unsure about ulcers
New research shows thousands of Australians continue to endure stomach ulcers needlessly.
The research shows that as many as 22,000 people in WA alone still suffer under the misconception that ulcers are caused by stress, bad diets or smoking.
Professor Barry Marshall says evidence from 15 years of medical research shows there are only two causes of stomach ulcers.
The first and most common is a treatable bacterial infection.
The second, when an ulcer forms as a side effect of strong arthritic treatments, has so far proved to be more difficult to heal.
Professor Marshall says that has now changed.
"Even for that group of ulcer patients now there are new things coming on line that allow them to have their ulcer controlled and keep taking treatment for their arthritis," he said.
The Professor is urging anyone who suffers from stomach ulcers to consult their doctor.