[The prevalence of H. pylori antibodies in Iceland.]

Helicobacter pylori causes gastritis and duodenal ulcerations, and is possibly one of the causes of gastric cancer. Diagnosis has relied on gastroscopy, but with the advent of reliable serological tests, epidemiological studies have become easier. Previous studies have indicated a higher H. pylori infection rate in Iceland than neighbouring countries. To study this further, an H. pylori (acid glycine extract) ELISA test was set up. Serum samples were obtained from 387 individuals, aged three months to 97 years, mean 41 years (161 blood donors, 83 outpatients, 64 ante natal clinic, 33 hospitalised children, 27 old people's home and 19 college students). Positive antibody titers were found in 151 (39%), of which 14 were borderline. The prevalence increased with age and was highest 75% in 60-69 years old, but lowest 9% in the youngest age group. The prevalence of H. pylori antibodies appears to be higher than in neighbouring countries, but lower than in the developing countries, and Icelanders appear to acquire the infection at a younger age than in the neighbouring countries. This high prevalence is important in view of the high prevalence of gastric cancer in Iceland.