Peptic Ulcer Disease: Introduction

Peptic ulcer disease represents a serious medical problem. Approximately 500,000 new cases are reported each year, with 5 million people affected in the United States alone. Interestingly, those at the highest risk of contracting peptic ulcer disease are those generations born around the middle of the 20th century. Ulcer disease has become a disease predominantly affecting the older population, with the peak incidence occurring between 55 and 65 years of age. In men, duodenal ulcers were more common than gastric ulcers; in women, the converse was found to be true. Thirty-five percent of patients diagnosed with gastric ulcers will suffer serious complications. Although mortality rates from peptic ulcer disease are low, the high prevalence and the resulting pain, suffering, and expense are very costly.