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For about 100 years, scientists thought that peptic ulcers were caused by stress, spicy food, and alcohol. Later, researchers added stomach acid to the list of causes and began treating ulcers with antacids. Now it is known that peptic ulcers are predominantly caused by Helicobacter pylori, a spiral-shaped bacterium that normally exist in the stomach.
Aspirin is the most widely used drug in the world. It has even been recognized as such by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Since 1988, the CDC has reported a 99% reduction in bacterial meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, due to the introduction of the vaccine against it.
People with high total cholesterol have about two times the risk for heart disease as people with ideal levels.
On average, the stomach produces 2 L of hydrochloric acid per day.