[The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among the Georgian population]

With aim to reveal Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection rate among the Georgian population and to determine Hp risk groups, studies were performed in 103 practically healthy volunteers--I group and in 92 volunteers from separate professional groups (including those who had dyspeptic complaints)--II group. Noninvasive methods of Hp infection testing ((13)C - urea breath test and serological test for anti-Hp IgG and IgA antibodies) were used. In the I group, 63,1% of practically healthy volunteers, aged 31,9+/-0,86 year (9-75 ye.), was Hp positive. Average age of Hp positive individuals exceed age of Hp negative ones. Chronic Hp infection (IgG+ and IgA- combination) revealed in 75% of seropositive persons, exacerbation of Hp infection (IgG+ IgA+)--in 23,3% and acute Hp infection (IgG- IgA+)--in 1,7%. In II group: more high rates of Hp infection revealed in subgroup of surgeons (85,7%) and in subgroup of students of the military school (73,3%). Thus, epidemiological studies revealed high level of Hp infection among the Georgian population. Correlation of high risk of Hp infection with low level of life, compact of reside, low level of education and with age of inspected person were observed. Also was revealed, that medical practice with frequent contact with gastric pathology patients (having place especially in surgeons) and long-lasting compact being together of large group (having place among the students of military school), are risk-factors to Hp infection.