Risk Factors

Living with someone who has an H. pylori infection increases risk of infection. People may also be infected if someone who prepares their food does not wash their hands properly. Patients with an immediate relative with a history of gastric cancer are also at increased risk for infection.

In developing countries, living in crowded and unsanitary conditions without a reliable supply of hot water increase risk of H. pylori infection. People emigrating from geographic areas with high rates of gastric cancer are also at increased risk.

Prevention

Based on the results of recent studies, the following measure may help to reduce transmission of H. pylori bacteria:

• Practice good hygiene and hand washing, especially with food preparation.
• All patients with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms that may be associated with H. pylori infection should be tested and treated to prevent exposure to family members.
• Patients should complete the full course of therapy (antibiotics and acid blockers) to maximize the potential for a cure.
• Maintain proper nutrition to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
• Increase cruciferous vegetable intake (ie. cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli)
• Support policies to improve living conditions in developing countries

Human vaccines against H. pylori infections are in early stages of clinical trials.

Learn more about H. Pylori

• Background
• Signs and Symptoms
• Transmission and Spread of Infection
• Complications and Prognosis
• Testing and Treatment
• Prevalence and Incidence
• Risk factors and Prevention

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