Prevalence and pre-disposing factors of helicobacter pylori among patients with gastro-intestinal symptoms attending Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection affects a large portion of the global human population, with varying prevalence across regions. Previous studies in Uganda have highlighted the presence of H. pylori infection, but comprehensive data on its prevalence and associated risk factors among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms remains limited. This study, therefore aimed at determining the prevalence and factors associated with H. pylori infection among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms attending Mulago Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 353 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms attending Mulago Hospital. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle and dietary habits, and medical history were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. H. pylori infection status was determined using stool antigen tests. Proportions were used to determine the prevalence of H. pylori and the associated factors analyzed using STATA version 14 software by performing bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify factors associated with H. pylori infection. Results: Out of 353 participants, the prevalence of H. pylori infection was 308 (87.3%). The majority of participants were aged between 16 to 25 years, 242 (69%), female 204 (58%) and resided in peri-urban areas (74%). Multivariate analysis revealed H. pylori infection associated with having more than five income dependents (aPRR=1.104, 95% CI: 1.025–1.189, p=0.008), previous H. pylori treatment (aPRR=3.459, 95% CI: 2.138–5.595, p<0.001), and family history of H. pylori or gastrointestinal tract ulcers (aPRR=1.135, 95% CI: 1.055–1.221, p=0.001). Conclusion: The study revealed that 9 out of 10 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms had H. pylori infection which was linked to household congestion, treatment history, and family history. Addressing these issues through better housing, awareness of familial risk, standardized treatment, and follow-up is crucial to reducing the infection burden of H.Pylori.