Peptic ulcers are most commonly caused by which condition described?

• A. Bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori
• B. Chronic inflammation
• C. Overly acidic pH balance in the digestive tract
• D. Diet alone

Answer: (C)

Peptic ulcers arise when the stomach or duodenal lining loses its protective defenses and is damaged by acid and digestive enzymes. The most common driver of this damage is a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori. This organism colonizes the stomach lining, triggers chronic inflammation, and disrupts the protective mucus, making the tissue more susceptible to acid injury. That combination—infection plus weakened mucosal defenses—explains why ulcers form so often with H. pylori.

Chronic inflammation can accompany ulcers, but it’s a result of the ongoing injury rather than the primary cause. While a highly acidic environment can contribute to mucosal damage, it isn’t by itself the primary cause in most cases. Diet alone does not cause peptic ulcers.