Frequency And Factors Leading To Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among Dyspeptic Patients

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Helicobacter pylori infection affects over 50% of the global population, making it a significant public health concern.
• Dyspepsia is a common condition, and understanding its association with H. pylori is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection among dyspepsia patients.
• To identify risk factors associated with H. pylori infection in this patient group.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted at Patel Hospital, Karachi, between January and July 2021.
• 111 dyspepsia patients aged 20-60 years underwent upper gastrointestinal biopsies for H. pylori histopathological confirmation.
• Data on patient demographics, dyspepsia duration, and smoking habits were collected.

Main Results:

• Helicobacter pylori infection was detected in 93% of the 111 dyspepsia patients.
• Significant risk factors identified include age over 40 (AOR: 7.99), dyspepsia duration exceeding 9 months (AOR: 3.93), and smoking (AOR: 11.85).
• The prevalence was higher in males (58.6%) compared to females (41.4%).

Conclusions:

• The study highlights a high rate of H. pylori infection in dyspepsia patients.
• Increasing age, prolonged dyspepsia, and smoking are confirmed as independent risk factors for H. pylori infection.