Risk Factors Associated with Helicobacter Pylori Infections in Makurdi Northcentral Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) is a microaerophilic bacterium that inhabits the gastric mucosa of the human stomach. Infection with this bacterium leads to chronic gastritis, peptic ulceration, gastric cancers and gastric malt lymphoma. Studies have documented a higher prevalence in Africa and the transmission pathways are still vaque. Methods: Eighty gastric biopsies were collected from the antrum of patients referred for endoscopy. Informed consent was obtained and questionnaires on risk factors such as type of water used, foods and habitswere administered to them. Genomic DNA was extracted from the tissue samples using ReliaPrep genomic DNA miniprep kit (Promega, Southampton UK), and H. pylori DNA was detected using a Singleplex PCR of the 16S rRNA gene. Results: Of all the parameters analyzed, only involvement in milking of cows (OR=3.545, 95% CI: 2.488-5.052; p=0.029) and sharing of spoons and cups (OR=45.00, 95% CI: 8.769-230.936; p <0.001) had significant association with transmission, and patients were at increased risk of infection. Conclusion: Transmission of H. pylori may be associated with the risk factors related to hygiene. Adequate hygiene is advocated to reduce the scourge of the infection.