Prevalence and Possible Risk Factors of Helicobacter Pylori Infection among Adults in Aba, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a major public health concern and is strongly associated with various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric cancer. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection among adults in Aba, Nigeria. Study Design: Cross sectional study design. Methodology: A total of 140 subjects aged 20-75 years (mean age: 43.4 ± 15.7 years) were analyzed and screened using rapid serological methods. Participants were categorized based on age, gender, occupation, and the presence or absence of GI symptoms. Blood samples were tested for H. pylori antibodies to determine infection status. The prevalence of H. pylori was assessed and compared across different demographic and occupational groups. Results: The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 51.4%. Age-specific distribution showed the highest prevalence in individuals aged 38-43 years (75.0%), while the lowest was in the 20-25 age group (27.3%). Males had a slightly higher prevalence (53.3%) than females (50.0%). Occupation-based analysis revealed the highest prevalence among drivers (58.3%) and traders (54.2%), while students had the lowest prevalence (45.5%). Among subjects with GI symptoms, H. pylori were most prevalent in those experiencing gastric pain (57.1%) and diarrhea (53.3%), while asymptomatic individuals had a prevalence of 40.0%. Conclusion: The findings suggest that H. pylori infection is significantly associated with GI disorders, with higher prevalence among symptomatic individuals, middle-aged adults, and high-risk occupational groups. Given the asymptomatic carriage of the bacterium in a substantial proportion of individuals, routine screening, early treatment, and preventive measures such as improved hygiene and safe food handling are essential for reducing H. pylori-related complications.