Figure 1. A scanning electron microscopic image of Helicobacter pylori. This helical shaped gram-negative bacterium causes peptic ulcers, gastritis, and duodenitis.
Familial transmission of H pylori infection is common, and an increased number of siblings elevates the risk for transmission. Lower socioeconomic status has also been associated with an increased risk for H pylori infection.
The incidence and prevalence of the disease are generally higher among persons born outside North America, with the highest prevalence being seen in Africa (80%). Prevalence estimates in other countries include 57.57% in Latin America and the Caribbean, 54.7% in Asia, 26.6% in Northern America, and 24.4% in Oceania.
The prevalence of H pylori infection has been decreasing in highly industrialized Western countries; in developing and newly industrialized countries, prevalence has plateaued at a high level.
Learn more about the epidemiology of H pylori.
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Cite this: B.S. Anand, Steven F. Moss. Fast Five Quiz: Helicobacter pylori - Medscape - Jan 20, 2022.
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