Epidemiology and Pathogenesis of H. pylori Infection

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori infection is very common in Pakistan and other nations all over the world. It induces chronic gastritis, the strongest known risk factor for peptic ulcer disease, distal gastric cancer and a number of extra gastric related morbidity. Increased incidence may be caused by worse hygienic conditions and lower socioeconomic level. Age, smoking, crowded housing, poor-quality food (such as fast food or restaurant cuisine), and unclean water may also exacerbate the problem. Clinical consequences depend on the genetic diversity of the host and the virulence factors of the bacterium, especially in relation to immune response genes. The organism develops many strategies that help it accomplish sustained colonization, allowing it to avoid the hostile acidic environment of the stomach mucosa and the human immune response. By routinely monitoring the risk factor system, as well as by raising the socioeconomic position and hygienic circumstances of the populace, it is possible to reduce the spread of H. pylori infection in Pakistan.