Occupational Risk of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> Infection among Endoscopy Staff at a Saudi Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Cohort Study

Objectives: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is highly prevalent in the general population, but its prevalence among hospital staff remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection among healthcare workers, particularly endoscopy unit personnel, who may face occupational exposure risks. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, we compared the prevalence of H. pylori among endoscopy unit staff (Group A) and matched controls from hemodialysis and family medicine clinics (Group B) at a tertiary care hospital. Infection status was assessed using the Helikit® MS01 urea breath test (UBT). The study was conducted from March 15, 2021, to February 15, 2022. Participants with dyspepsia or prior H. pylori diagnosis were excluded. Results: Among 61 participants (mean age 37.1 years; 43 (70.5%) female), the overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 20 (32.8%). Group A (endoscopy staff; 18 [29.5% of cohort]) had an infection prevalence of 6 (33.3%), while Group B (controls; 43 [70.5% of cohort]) had a prevalence of 14 (32.6%). The unadjusted odds ratio for infection in endoscopy staff (Group A) versus controls (Group B) was 1.04 (95% CI: 0.31 - 3.28; p = 0.95). Multivariable adjustment yielded similar non-significant results (aOR = 0.98; p = 0.98). Conclusion: The prevalence of H. pylori infection among hospital staff was 20/61 (32.8%), with no significant increase observed in endoscopy personnel (6/18 [33.3%] vs. 14/43 [32.6%]). Occupational exposure in endoscopy units does not appear to increase infection risk.