To Study The Prevalence Of Helicobacter Pylori In Patients With Gastric Cancer Attending A Tertiary Care Centre: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Gastric adenocarcinoma is a major global health threat. Gastric cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection recognized as a key etiological factor. Regional prevalence data are essential to guide preventive and therapeutic strategies. Aim and Objectives: To determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection among patients with histopathologically confirmed gastric carcinoma. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 112 consecutive patients with gastric adenocarcinoma confirmed by histopathology. Clinical details were recorded, and multiple biopsy specimens were obtained during endoscopy or surgery. H. pylori detection was carried out using rapid urease test (RUT) and histopathology with hematoxylin–eosin and modified Giemsa staining. Patients were considered positive if either test was positive. Results: The mean age of patients was 51.2 years (range: 18–80), with a male predominance (60.7%). The peak incidence occurred in the 41–60 years age group. Distal gastric adenocarcinoma was the most common site (69.6%), followed by proximal (13.4%), body (8.9%), and diffuse carcinoma (8%). The prevalence of H. pylori was 43.8% (49/112). Site-specific analysis showed the highest prevalence in distal cancers (46.1%) and diffuse type (55.6%). Conclusion: Nearly half of gastric carcinoma patients in this cohort were infected with H. pylori, highlighting its significant role in gastric carcinogenesis. These findings support early detection and eradication of H. pylori as a public health priority in high-risk populations.