The association between duration of and indications for proton pump inhibitor use and risk of gastric polyps

Objectives The development of fundic gland polyps (FGPs) is the most common side effect of long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use; however, the effect of drug use characteristics and their impact on the risk of other gastric polyp development remain unclear. We aimed to identify the influence of PPI administration, as well as its duration and dose, in the development of gastric polyps. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive patients who underwent gastroscopy between September 2017 and August 2019. Detailed characteristics of gastric polyps, Helicobacter pylori infection, and PPI use were analyzed. Results Among the 2723 patients included, gastric polyps (75% FGPs, 22% hyperplastic) were detected in 16.4%, and 60% were prescribed PPI. The risk of FGPs and hyperplastic polyps according to the duration of PPI use were as follows: 2–5 years [odds ratio (95% confidence interval); 2.86 (2.00–4.11) and 2.82 (1.69–4.78)]; 6–9 years [7.42 (5.03–11.01) and 2.32 (1.05–4.78)]; ≥10 years [14.94 (10.36–21.80) and 3.52 (1.67–7.03)]. Multivariate analysis confirmed that the risk of FGPs was 17.16 (11.35–26.23) for ≥10 years of PPI use. Portal hypertension-related conditions were associated with hyperplastic polyps [4.99 (2.71–9.20)]. Conclusion Duration of and indications for PPI use are the most predictive factors for the development of gastric polyps. Prolonged PPI use increases the risk of polyp development and the number of patients with polyps, which may burden endoscopic practice. Highly selected patients may require particular care despite minimal risk of dysplasia and bleeding generally.