Risk factors linked to gastric intestinal metaplasia in adults from a private clinic in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

Background and Aims

Gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM) significantly increases the risk of developing future gastric cancer by 6-fold. This study aimed to identify the most common risk factors associated with GIM in adults who underwent EGD at a private clinic in the Dominican Republic.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined the risk factors of GIM in adults who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at a private clinic in the Dominican Republic in 2024. Indications included dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), surveillance of premalignant lesions, combined lower and upper gastrointestinal screening, and alarm symptoms. All procedures followed the Sydney biopsy protocol, with additional biopsy specimens from areas concerning for GIM. Experienced pathologists reviewed biopsy specimens and diagnosed GIM histologically. Patient data and biopsy results were obtained from electronic medical records, and logistic regression identified independent risk factors for GIM.

Results

Of the 781 patients, 14.6% had GIM. Multivariate odds ratio (MultivOR) analysis indicated that current Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) infection (MultivOR, 3.51; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.01-6.10), past H pylori infection (MultivOR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.63-4.16), and age (MultivOR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.04-1.08) were linked to an increased risk of GIM. Other factors showed no significant association.

Conclusions

Current and past H pylori infections and age increase GIM risk for both extensive and limited GIM in adults undergoing EGD at a Dominican clinic. Further studies are needed to evaluate their relevance for gastric cancer screening strategies.