Decrease in prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection during a 10-year period in Brazilian children

Insights

Helicobacter pylori infection prevalence significantly decreased in children over a 10-year period, particularly in younger age groups and those with epigastric pain. This study tracked H. pylori trends in pediatric endoscopy patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Global reports indicate a declining prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.
  • Understanding H. pylori trends in pediatric populations is crucial for public health.
  • This study investigates H. pylori infection rates in children undergoing endoscopy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection over a 10-year period in children.
  • To assess trends in H. pylori infection among pediatric patients undergoing upper digestive endoscopy.
  • To identify age-specific and symptom-related patterns in H. pylori prevalence.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective observational study of 1,165 pediatric endoscopies (age ≤ 18) over 10 years.
  • H. pylori infection diagnosed via rapid urease test on antral mucosal biopsy.
  • Chi-square for trend analysis used to compare prevalence over time.

Main Results:

  • Overall H. pylori prevalence was 33.6% (392/1165).
  • Prevalence decreased from 60.47% in the first year to 30.43% in the last year.
  • Significant decreases observed in children under 6 and over 12, and notably in those with epigastric pain.

Conclusions:

  • A significant decline in H. pylori infection prevalence was observed in the studied pediatric cohort.
  • The reduction in H. pylori infection was most pronounced in younger children and those presenting with epigastric pain.
  • Findings suggest a positive trend in controlling H. pylori in pediatric populations.
Abstract

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