Seroepidemiology ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection in Tepehuanos Aged 15 Years and Older in Durango, Mexico

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the seroepidemiology ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection in Tepehuanos (an indigenous ethnic group living in rural Mexico). The prevalence of anti-Helicobacter pyloriIgG antibodies was examined in 156 Tepehuanos in Durango State, Mexico, using an enzyme-linked immunoassay. In addition, sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics of Tepehuanos associated with seropositivity were investigated. In total, 103 (66%) of the 156 participants (mean age years) hadHelicobacter pyloriIgG antibodies. Fifty-four (52.4%) of the 103 seropositive individuals hadHelicobacter pyloriIgG antibody levels higher than 100 U/mL. Males and females had comparable seroprevalence ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection andHelicobacter pyloriIgG antibody levels. The seroprevalence was significantly higher in women with pregnancies than those without this obstetric characteristic. Logistic regression showed thatHelicobacter pyloriinfection was positively associated with low education (OR = 3.37; 95% CI: 1.13–10.00; ) and laborer occupation (OR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.14–6.42; ). This is the first report of seroprevalence and contributing factors forHelicobacter pyloriinfection in Tepehuanos and of the association ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection with laborer occupation. Results warrants further research.