Sero-Prevalence of <i>H. pylori</i>Antibodies among Asymptomatic Rural Population in Bauchi State, Nigeria—A Preliminary Study

Helicobacter pylori infection is a major public health problem globally, with high prevalence in developing countries associated with poor sanitation, low standard of living, urban-rural disparity and increased gastrointestinal pathologies. This preliminary study determined the seroprevalence of H. pylori infection among asymptomatic rural population and association of sociodemographic variables on the result outcome. A total of 250 asymptomatic volunteered participants were screened for H. pylori antibodies, using rapid immunochromatographic strips. 44.8% (112/250) were seropositive, and showed increased prevalence with the age group, <15 years (8.0%), 18 - 39 years (23.5%) and 40 - 65 years (12.0%) with no significant difference. High prevalence among males, 88 (35.2) compared to 24 (9.6) females (p < 0.228). Significant association was observed with marital status, high prevalence among married participants 63 (25.0) followed by singles, 41 (16.4) (p < 0.010). Similarly, significant prevalence was observed among participants with non-formal education, 60 (24.0) followed by primary education, 21 (8.4) (p < 0.51). While non-salary earners accounted for 79 (31.6) (p < 0.244). The H. pylori seropositivity of 44.8% is relatively low in region with previous reports of high prevalence and predisposing risk factors. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of environmental and occupational risk factors for better epidemiological understanding of H. pylori infection and a template for intervention measures.