Helicobacter pylori antigen in stools of children: A cross-sectional study in two regional hospitals in the South West region of Cameroon

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection (HPI) is usually acquired during childhood and most often, it is asymptomatic in children. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of Helicobacter pylori antigen in stools of children. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from February to April 2023 at the Buea and Limbe regional hospitals. Children aged 6 months to 15 years were included. The diagnosis was made by performing the H. pylori stool antigen rapid test, using monoclonal antibodies. Data were entered into Excel spreadsheet and analysed using SPSS version 25.0. Chi square test was used to compare variables, and logistic regression by univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test for associated factors. Statistical significance was set at p-value<0.05. Results: Three hundred and twenty-one participants were recruited. The mean age was 6.15 years ± 4.46. The overall prevalence of HPI was 28.7%. Male children represented 53.3% (n=171). Among the positive cases, 50% were symptomatic with abdominal pains emerging as the most common symptom. The associated factors to HPI were family history of HPI AOR=1.85 (95%CI [1.08-3.18], P=0.025) and increasing age, with age groups ]5-10] years AOR=1.96 (95%CI [1.06 3.62], P=0.032) and ]10-15] years with the AOR=2.67 (95% CI [1.46-4.91], P=0.002). Conclusion: The overall prevalence of HPI was 28.7%. Age groups ]5-10] years and ]10-15] years, and family history of H. pylori infection were identified as risk factors associated to HPI.