Assessment of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Risk Factors among Patients with Gastroenteritis in Sebha City, Libya

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is the most frequent bacterial infection in humans, affecting 50% of the population worldwide and representing the major pathogen cause of gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric cancer. Infection with H. pylori is a major public health problem in many countries all over the world, particularly in Africa, South America, and Western Asia. The risk of infection with H. Pylori is strongly correlated with hygienic conditions and socioeconomic status. Aim: This study aimed at assess the prevalence and risk factors of H. pylori infection among patients with gastroenteritis in Sebha city, Libya. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted on patients with gastroenteritis who had attended the medical Algene laboratory from January to November 2022. Data was obtained through the review of medical records and interviews with patients. H. pylori infection was determined by antibody detection using the Alegria® immunodiagnostic system. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS. Results: Out of 175 samples tested, there were 89 (50.9%) males and 86 (49.1%) females, and the mean age of the subjects was 38.9 years. Of the 93 subjects who were reactive to the H. pylori screening test, the reactivity of H. pylori was found to be 53.5%. The prevalence rates of H. pylori among male and female patients were 52.8% and 53.5%, respectively. The maximum positivity rate of H. pylori was found among patients aged between 41 and 60 years (60%) and the minimum among those aged less than 20 years (45.8%). There was no significant association between the presence of H. pylori infection and gender or age (P > 0.05). Also, there was no significant difference in H. pylori infection with dietary habits, sources of drinking water, or smoking (P > 0.05). Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of H. pylori infection in patients with gastroenteritis in Sebha city, Libya. It is imperative to effectively manage stressful circumstances in the 41-60 age group. Health education is crucial for understanding risk factors, modes of transmission and prevention methods.