What is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease (PUD)?

The most common cause of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is H. pylori infection. This bacterium is a gram-negative microaerophilic organism that colonizes the gastric epithelium, leading to various gastrointestinal conditions, including gastritis, gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers. The presence of H. pylori is significant because it disrupts the mucosal barrier, alters gastric acid secretion, and triggers inflammatory responses that contribute to ulcer formation.

Additionally, the relationship between H. pylori and peptic ulcers is well established in clinical literature, making it a primary focus in the diagnosis and treatment of PUD. Effective eradication of H. pylori through appropriate antibiotic therapy often leads to resolution of the ulcers and alleviation of symptoms.

Factors such as stress, medications (like NSAIDs), and alcohol consumption can contribute to ulcer formation but are not the leading causes. Stress might exacerbate symptoms or healing but isn’t directly responsible for causing ulcers. Medications such as NSAIDs can certainly increase the risk of developing ulcers due to their effect on prostaglandin synthesis and gastric mucosal protection; however, they are secondary to the infection in terms of commonality. Alcohol can irritate the gastric lining but is again