Helicobacter pylori infection in asymptomatic subjects in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: To determine the seroprevalence of Helicobacter.pylori antibodies in asymptomatic healthy population.

Methods: Convenient sampling was done in asymptomatic healthy individuals accompanying the patients who had no previous history of epigastric pain. Venous blood was collected from individuals and sera separated. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine H. pylori IgG antibodies in all sera.

Results: A total of 396 samples were collected. H. pylori antibodies were found in 201 (51%) individuals. A 46% seroprevalence was found in subjects 15-20 years of age, which gradually increased with age and reached to .61% in subjects up to 50 years of age. Subjects > 40 years had higher antibody response than those < 40 years. There was no significant association between presence of H. pylori antibodies and dietary habits and sources of drinking water. H. pylori antibodies in female smokers were found in 9% and in non smoking females were 91% but no such difference was found in male smokers or non-smokers.

Conclusion: Infection with H. pylori is prevalent in the healthy individuals of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Infection is acquired in the early age and reaches up to 61% as the age advances. A nation wide epidemiological study is warranted to determine the seroprevalence of H. pylori in Saudi Arabia.