A real-world workplace-based screening for Helicobacter pylori infection: the HPOS study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Public Health
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer (GC).
• Many individuals remain unaware of their H. pylori infection status, hindering timely intervention.
• Workplace-based screening offers a novel approach to identify and manage H. pylori infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a workplace-based H. pylori screening program integrated into occupational health surveillance (OHS).
• To assess the participation rate, infection prevalence, and treatment outcomes among hospital workers (HWs).
• To explore the feasibility and acceptance of H. pylori screening in an occupational setting for GC prevention.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving HWs aged 40-65 at S. Orsola University Hospital, Bologna, Italy.
• H. pylori infection diagnosed using stool antigen tests (SAT).
• Follow-up at three months assessed physician referrals, treatment rates, and participant experience.

Main Results:

• A 73.9% participation rate was achieved among eligible HWs (n=550).
• The prevalence of H. pylori infection was 16.6%.
• 80.6% of infected HWs consulted a physician, with 73.6% prescribed treatment; eradication rate was 97.3% among those with confirmatory tests. The program was well-received (average experience 8.9/10) and extended to family members.

Conclusions:

• Workplace-based H. pylori screening integrated into OHS is feasible, well-accepted, and effective in identifying infections.
• This strategy holds potential for gastric cancer prevention by increasing H. pylori diagnosis and treatment rates.
• Replication of this model in other occupational settings is recommended to broaden its public health impact.