Frequency of Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Patients with Gastritis in Bangladesh.

Abstract

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is strongly associated with gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Regional data on its prevalence in Bangladesh, particularly among symptomatic patients, are essential for guiding clinical management and public health strategies. Objective: This study aimed to determine the frequency of H. pylori infection in patients diagnosed with gastritis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at multiple center in Bangladesh.  Study Sample were collected at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Ad-din Medical College, South Keranigonj, Dhaka, Sheikh Russel Gastroliver Institute and Hospital, Dhaka, Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Mugda Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka in Bangladesh, from January 2023 to June 2023. Using purposive sampling, 223 gastritis patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were included. H. pylori infection was confirmed via rapid urease test (RUT). Data on age, sex, and symptoms (epigastric pain, nausea, bloating) were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0, with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: Among 223 gastritis patients (mean age: 42.5 years; 55.2% male), H. pylori prevalence was 68.2%, peaking in 40-60-year-olds (76.3%, p=0.028). Epigastric pain (92.1% vs 83.1%, p=0.042) and erosive changes (27.6% vs 18.3%) were more frequent in H. pylori-positive cases. Age 40-60 years (aOR=2.1, p=0.012) and epigastric pain (aOR=1.9, p=0.028) independently predicted infection. Conclusion: H. pylori infects two-thirds of patients with gastritis, Middle age and epigastric pain as key predictors. Routine screening and targeted treatment are recommended, particularly for 40-60-year-olds with erosive changes.