Breath test and socio-demographic factors in helicobacter pylori infection
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Socio-Demographic Factors and Breath Test in Helicobacter pylori Infection
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a prevalent global pathogen, infecting approximately 50% of the world's population. In Turkey, a study using the 13C-Urea breath test found an overall prevalence of 82.5%, with higher rates in men and lower rates in the southern fruit-growing regions. Similarly, in Nigeria, the prevalence was 37.5% among surveyed respondents. In western China, the prevalence varied significantly by age and ethnicity, with the highest rates among adults aged 40-49 years and the Tibetan ethnic minority. Among Alaskans, the prevalence was notably high, particularly among Indigenous populations.
Socio-Demographic Risk Factors
Gender and Age
Multiple studies have identified gender and age as significant factors in H. pylori infection. Men generally have a higher prevalence of infection compared to women . Age also plays a crucial role, with older adults showing higher infection rates .
Socioeconomic Status
Socioeconomic status (SES) is a critical determinant of H. pylori infection. Lower SES is associated with higher infection rates. For instance, in a study of adults aged 40-49, those from lower social classes had significantly higher infection rates. Similarly, in Nigeria, overcrowding and lower educational levels were linked to higher infection rates. In children, an inverse correlation was observed between the mother's education level and H. pylori positivity.
Living Conditions
Living conditions, such as overcrowding and cohabitation, are significant risk factors. In Nigeria, living with more than three people in an apartment was associated with higher infection rates. In another study, living with a partner, especially in lower social classes, increased the risk of infection.
Ethnicity
Ethnicity also influences H. pylori prevalence. In western China, the Tibetan ethnic minority had a higher prevalence compared to the Han Chinese population. Among children in Houston, the prevalence was similar between white Hispanic and black children, but living in crowded conditions increased the risk.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and alcohol consumption have mixed associations with H. pylori infection. In Turkey, smoking and alcohol use were significant risk factors for men but not for women. However, in another study, smoking was only a risk factor for those smoking more than 35 cigarettes a day, and alcohol intake was not an independent risk factor.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has been shown to have a protective effect against H. pylori infection in children. A study in Houston found that children who were breastfed had a lower risk of acquiring the infection.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Breath Tests
The 13C-Urea breath test (UBT) is a reliable method for diagnosing H. pylori infection. A meta-analysis of studies conducted in the Asian population confirmed the high sensitivity (97%) and specificity (96%) of the 13C-UBT, making it a valuable tool for infection management.
Conclusion
H. pylori infection is influenced by a variety of socio-demographic factors, including gender, age, socioeconomic status, living conditions, and ethnicity. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and breastfeeding also play roles in infection risk. The 13C-Urea breath test remains a highly accurate diagnostic tool for detecting H. pylori infection across different populations. Understanding these factors can help in developing targeted strategies for the prevention and management of H. pylori infection.
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