Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Patients with Gastroduodenal Diseases at Benghazi Medical Center, Libya

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a critical etiological agent in the pathogenesis of a wide range of gastroduodenal diseases, yet epidemiological data remain sparse in certain regions, including North Africa. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and clinical significance of H. pylori among 144 dyspeptic patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at Benghazi Medical Center, Libya. A comprehensive diagnostic approach was employed, integrating serological (IgG), stool antigen, and urease tests, as well as PCR-based amplification of the 16S rRNA, GLM, and HPU genes. The overall H. pylori IgG seroprevalence was 72.2%, with stool antigen and rapid urease tests indicating active infection in 62.5% and 61.1% of patients, respectively, and molecular assays confirming H. pylori in over 60%. Notably, infection rates were disproportionately elevated in patients diagnosed with gastritis (45.8%) and peptic ulcer disease (18.1%), demonstrating a robust association between H. pylori positivity and these conditions. Furthermore, strains harboring specific virulence factors correlated with more severe clinical outcomes, underscoring the pathogen’s central role in disease progression. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved diagnostic strategies, locally tailored treatments, and targeted public health measures to mitigate the substantial disease burden imposed by H. pylori.