Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori infection

Abstract

The study of Helicobacter pylori genetic variability brought us interesting data on the history of mankind. Based on multilocus sequence typing and more recently on whole-genome sequencing, paleomicrobiology still attracts the attention of global researchers in relation to its ancestor roots and coexistence with humans. Three studies determining the prevalence of virulence factors illustrates the controversial results obtained since 30 years by studies trying to associate prevalence of different virulence markers and clinical outcomes of H. pylori infection. Three articles analyzed the prevalence and risk of multiple (genetically distinct isolates) and mixed (susceptible and resistant isolates) infections. A number of studies confirm that H. pylori prevalence is falling worldwide especially in the developed world and in children but that the level of infection is higher in certain ethnic minorities and in Migrants. There is little new in identifying the mode of H. pylori transmission though intrafamilial spread appears to be important. There have, however, been some interesting papers on the presence of the organism in food, water, and the oral cavity.

Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and its association with incident all‐cause and Alzheimer's disease dementia in large national surveys

“…As stated earlier, H. pylori seroprevalence is highly dependent on sociodemographic factors, particularly age, sex, race/ethnicity, and SES [19,25,26]. Moreover, H. pylori has been associated with several biological markers that were associated with neurocognitive disorders.…”

“…Found in gastric mucosa of ≥50% of humans worldwide, H. pylori can infect children, becoming chronic during adulthood if untreated. Its seroprevalence increases with age and poorer socioeconomic conditions and was observed to be higher among minority groups [19,25,26]. Recently, a link between H. pylori and extra-digestive disorders was found.…”

Helicobacter pylori infection and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Time for large clinical trials evaluating eradication therapy

“…In this regard, though controversy still exists, there is growing evidence for an association between Helicobacter pylori and NAFLD, similarly to other manifestations of IR syndrome or metabolic syndrome, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia, and CVD . As for NAFLD, H pylori infection ( H pylori ‐I) is also highly prevalent worldwide and both are increasing with age. The association of H pylori ‐I and NAFLD is appealing and has a potential clinical implication: if an association is established, H pylori eradication might inhibit NAFLD development and/or progression toward advanced disease.…”

Temporal Trends in Helicobacter pylori Eradication Success in a Test-and-Treat Population

“…Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative, flagellated, spiral-shaped organism that infects up to 50% of the population worldwide [1]. Infection is directly linked to the development of gastritis, gastric ulceration, and gastric cancer [2].…”