All research presented at ACG 2025 is strictly embargoed until 12:00 pm local Arizona Time, which aligns with Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)/3:00 pm ET on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
P2040 – Second-Hand Smoke: A Silent Culprit Behind Peptic Ulcer Disease
Sunday, October 26, 2025 | 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM PDT | Exhibit Hall
Author Insight from Simardeep Singh, MD
What’s new here and important for clinicians?
- Our study identifies second-hand smoke (SHS) as an independent and preventable risk factor for peptic ulcer disease (PUD) — even after adjusting for Helicobacter pylori, NSAID use, and alcohol intake.
- A clear dose–response pattern was observed, where higher weekly exposure significantly increased ulcer risk.
- Clinicians should routinely ask about SHS exposure in dyspeptic patients and counsel families to reduce passive smoke exposure — a simple, low-cost prevention opportunity in everyday practice.
What do patients need to know?
- Even if you don’t smoke, regular exposure to tobacco smoke can increase your risk of stomach ulcers.
- Reducing second-hand smoke at home or work helps protect your stomach lining and overall digestive health.
- If you have frequent heartburn or stomach pain, talk to your doctor and mention any smoke exposure — awareness and small changes can make a big difference.
Author Contact
Simardeep Singh, MBBS
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Baltimore, MD
simardeep.singh [at] medstar.net / simardeep1515 [at] gmail.com
For assistance contacting other ACG experts, please contact Becky Abel, ACG’s Senior Communications Manager, at mediaonly [at] gi.org.