Seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in an asymptomatic mauritanian population

Objective: Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a worldwide infection. However, no data are currently available on its prevalence in the Mauritanian population. Materials and methods: This is a transversal study on all patients who presented to the laboratory of the military hospital in Nouakchott to be collecting blood during the study period, regardless of the reason for the collecting blood. Patients who have a history of digestive diseases or followed in gastroenterology were excluded. The DRG(R) ELISA serological test Helicobacter pylori IgG was chosen as a diagnostic method. The following parameters were evaluated: serological status, demographic parameters, factors of promiscuity and the source of drinking water. Results: A total of 182 subjects were included. The average age was 36 years, ranging from 5 to 76 years. The sex ratio (M/F) is 1.12 (99 men and 83 women). The seroprevalence of HP was 76.4%. Risk factors found were age and male gender (p:0.04 and 0.03 respectively). Conclusion: The seroprevalence of HP is high in our country, similar to those in developing countries.