Prevalence and Determinants of Helicobacter Pylori Infection among Adult Dyspeptic Patients in Abuja, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is common in developing countries like Nigeria with significant morbidity and risk of mortality. With rising antimicrobial resistance, risk factors of infection should be explored to develop prevention strategies and improve the health of developing communities.

OBJECTIVE

To identify determinants and clinical correlates of H. pylori among study participants.

METHODS

We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study between May and July 2017 of 280 dyspeptic adults in Garki Hospital Abuja. They were tested using serum H. pylori Immunoglobulin G antibody test kits. Data on patient characteristics were collected using pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaires. The data were analysed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regression and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were computed to identify risk factors and clinical features associated with H. pylori infection.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 53.6%. H. pylori was positively associated with age and monthly income. Family history of dyspepsia (OR = 0.32: 95% CI = 0.13 to 0.78), regular consumption of fruits and vegetables (OR = 0.11: 95% CI = 0.046 - 0.281) and regular handwashing with soap and water (OR = 0.02: 95% CI = 0.006 -0.040) were found to be protective against H. pylori infection.

CONCLUSION

There is a high H. pylori prevalence amongst patients with dyspepsia in Garki Hospital Abuja. Interventions to reduce the incidence of H. pylori infection should emphasise regular handwashing with soap and water and regular fruit and vegetable consumption.