What is the global prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection?

From the Guidelines

The global prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is approximately 50%, with the highest rates found in developing countries. This estimate is based on recent data from 2020, as reported in the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1. The prevalence of H. pylori infection varies significantly by geographic region, socioeconomic status, and age.

Key Factors Influencing Prevalence

• Developing countries typically have higher infection rates compared to developed nations
• The highest prevalence is found in Africa, South America, and parts of Asia
• North America, Western Europe, and Australia have lower rates
• H. pylori infection typically occurs in childhood and persists throughout life if untreated
• Poor sanitation, overcrowded living conditions, and limited access to clean water are major risk factors

Clinical Significance

• H. pylori is clinically significant as it causes chronic gastritis and is associated with peptic ulcer disease, gastric cancer, and MALT lymphoma
• Global eradication efforts and improved living conditions have led to declining prevalence rates in many regions over recent decades, as noted in the study 1

Regional Variations

• The prevalence of H. pylori infection decreases as socioeconomic conditions improve
• Regional variations in prevalence are influenced by factors such as sanitation, hygiene, and access to healthcare
• The study 1 highlights the importance of considering regional variations in prevalence when developing treatment strategies for H. pylori infection.

From the Research

Global Prevalence of H. pylori Infection

• The global prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is high, with more than half of the world's population infected 2.
• According to a systematic review and meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of H. pylori infection varies by region, with Africa having the highest prevalence (70.1%) and Oceania having the lowest prevalence (24.4%) 2.
• The prevalence of H. pylori infection also varies by country, ranging from 18.9% in Switzerland to 87.7% in Nigeria 2.
• It is estimated that there were approximately 4.4 billion individuals with H. pylori infection worldwide in 2015 2.

Regional Variations in Prevalence

• The prevalence of H. pylori infection exceeds 30% in numerous countries worldwide 3.
• Regional variations in prevalence are likely due to differences in sanitation, socioeconomic factors, and access to healthcare 2.
• The global prevalence of H. pylori infection has changed over time, with improvements in sanitation and methods of eradication contributing to declining prevalence in some regions 2.

Factors Contributing to Prevalence

• Cytotoxin-related gene A (CagA) and vacuolar cytotoxin A (VacA) are the main virulence factors of H. pylori, contributing to its high global infection rate 3.
• Interpersonal and zoonotic routes are possible transmission routes for H. pylori infection 3.
• Preventative measures, such as changes to living habits and dietary factors, may help reduce the prevalence of H. pylori infection 3.