Arterial Stiffness and Histologically Confirmed Helicobacter pylori Infection in Young Adults

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection has been linked to systemic inflammation and vascular dysfunction, potentially contributing to arterial stiffness. Research in younger populations is limited, highlighting the need to explore its early cardiovascular impact. This study investigated the association between histologically confirmed HP infection and arterial stiffness. Data were retrospectively analyzed from a cohort of adults who underwent health check-ups and gastric mucosal biopsies to confirm HP infection. A mong them, young adults aged 19–39 years were included in the analysis. Arterial stiffness was assessed using estimated PWV (ePWV), which was calculated using age and mean arterial pressure according to validated equations. Among 7803 participants, 4289 (53.9%) tested positive for HP. ePWV was significantly higher in HP-positive individuals (6.66 ± 0.60 vs. 6.33 ± 0.58 m/s; p < 0.001), with a linear increase observed across HP severity levels (analysis of variaungnce p < 0.01). A positive correlation was identified between the Updated Sydney System (USS) score and ePWV (p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated an independent association between USS score and ePWV after adjusting for confounders. Logistic regression analysis showed that severe HP infection was associated with a markedly higher likelihood of elevated ePWV (odds ratio, 3.87; 95% CI. 3.25–4.60; p < 0.001). HP infection was independently associated with increased arterial stiffness in young adualts, with greater infection severity linked to higher ePWV levels. Early detection may help reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.