Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in Argentina -: Results of a nationwide epidemiologic study

Our aim was to assess the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in Argentina, in the general population and by ape groups, and to determine the value of various epidemiologic variables as predictors of Hp infection. The study com prised 754 subjects (443 women [58.7%], 311 men [41.3%]) from both fenders, consecutively recruited from health centers whale patients were undergoing routine medical analyses. Average age was 32 +/- 22 years. The pediatric group included subjects less than or equal to 18 years of age (n = 261), Stratification was based primarily on climatic factors and secondarily on sanitary and demographic considerations. Hp infection status was assessed through a quick serologic test. The overall Hp infection prevalence in Argentina was 35.7 +/- 3.8%. The age was statistically significant using a multiple regression test (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the socioeconomic (p < 0.05) and educational level (p < 0.01) in the adults and the water sources (p < 0.01) in the pediatric group were all statistically significant according the multiple regression test. The overall Hp infection prevalence in Argentina was 35.7 +/- 3.8%. Age was a predictor of Hp infection status. There is evidence of low infection prevalence in children, a higher prevalence in adolescents, and a more noticeable increase at 40 years of age. Furthermore, the socioeconomic and educational level in adults and the water sources in the pediatric group explained, in part, the occurrence of Hp infection.