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Helicobacter pylori positivity in Belgium
U Blecker1, S Lanciers, B Hauser
1Academisch Ziekenhuis Kinderen, Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Acta Gastro-Enterologica Belgica
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Helicobacter pylori positivity is prevalent in 18% of asymptomatic Belgians, increasing with age and differing significantly by ethnicity. These asymptomatic carriers warrant further investigation in gastro-intestinal pathology studies.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Helicobacter pylori is a common pathogen with varying prevalence globally.
- Understanding its prevalence in asymptomatic populations is crucial for assessing its role in gastro-intestinal diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in a large, asymptomatic population in Belgium.
- To analyze the influence of age and ethnicity on H. pylori positivity.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 1180 asymptomatic patients (aged 1-40 years) in Brussels.
- Data collection on patient demographics, including age and ethnicity.
- Analysis of H. pylori positivity rates across different age groups and ethnic backgrounds.
Main Results:
- Overall H. pylori positivity rate was 18.0% in the study population.
- Prevalence significantly increased with age, from 6.4% (1-5 years) to 36.4% (36-40 years).
- Non-Caucasian patients exhibited a significantly higher prevalence compared to Caucasian subjects (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of H. pylori in asymptomatic individuals in Belgium is substantial and should not be underestimated.
- Age and ethnicity are significant factors influencing H. pylori positivity in this population.
- The role of these asymptomatic carriers in upper gastro-intestinal pathology requires further research.