THE IMPACT OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION ON IRON LEVELS AND ITS DEFICIENCY IN THE BODY

Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the main causes of gastric infections and has a significant impact on the health of the digestive system. Numerous studies show an association between H. pylori infection and iron deficiency, which leads to the development of anemia. This study aims to evaluate the link between H. pylori infection and iron deficiency anemia in a population group in the Polog region without obvious risk factors. The study is retrospective and includes 330 patients, who were divided into two groups: a group infected with H. pylori and a negative control group. The iron level and the titer of IgG antibodies of H. pylori were measured in serum. The results show that H. pylori positive patients have lower iron levels compared to negative patients, and the differences are more pronounced in patients of the last two age groups (41-60 years and >60 years), in whom a statistically significant difference in iron levels was observed (p < 0.05). This paper concludes that patients infected with Helicobacter pylori have lower serum iron levels compared to those who are not infected. Infection contributes to the development of anemia, especially in older patients. The results of this study emphasize the importance of monitoring iron values for the timely detection and treatment of infection to prevent health complications that may result from anemia.