Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among dyspeptic patients attending Baghdad medical city complex.

Background and objectives: Dyspepsia is a disorder characterized by difficulty in digestion and represents a major health concern. Therefore, it is crucial to identify functional dyspepsia linked to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This research aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori among patients with dyspepsia and to examine the potential risk factors associated with the infection.

Materials and methods: From August 14^th to September 21^st, 2024, a total of 105 patients with dyspepsia, who attended the Central Laboratory of Baghdad Medical City Complex (Iraq), were enrolled in this study. Data on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, family history, fasting habits and frequent fast food consumption were collected through participant interviews.

Results: Based on the urea breath test results, dyspeptic patients were categorized into infected (63.8%) and non-infected (36.2%) groups. Factors that influenced these patients included the intake of NSAIDs (48.6%), smoking (21.9%), family history (29.5%), fasting habits (36.2%) and regular consumption of fast food (57.1%).

Conclusion: Dyspeptic patients exhibit a high prevalence of H. pylori infection, indicating the significant impact of H. pylori on this population. However, the intake of NSAIDs, smoking, family history, fasting habits and regular fast food consumption have no significant effects on the presence of H. pylori.