Prevalence And Factors Associated with Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among Children Below Twelve Years Attending Opd at Ogur H/C Iv In Lira District

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with H. pylori infection among children below twelve years attending OPD at Ogur H/C IV in Lira district.

Background of the study Globally, the prevalence of H. pylori infection is estimated to be over 50%, with significantly higher rates observed in developing countries. The prevalence of H. pylori infection is very high in Sub-Saharan Africa; Studies have shown that rates might reach 70% in children.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 312 randomly selected children below twelve years. A sample of blood from the finger was collected using a capillary tube and an enzyme immunoassay method was used to analyze the blood for the H. pylori antibodies. The study used quantitative methods to gather information on environmental/health related factors, caregivers’ socioeconomic factors and socio demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics and modified poison was used to analyze the level and factors associated with H. pylori infection.

Results: The study findings showed that the prevalence of H. pylori was 39.42% (123/ 312). The majority of the children were above five years (52.6%), With more males participating in the study (53.2%) compared to females (46.8%). The multivariate analysis revealed that children from single-parent households had a significantly higher prevalence rate of H. pylori infection compared to those from married households (Adjusted PR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.02–1.80; p = 0.033). Conclusion: The prevalence of H. Pylori infection among children below twelve years was relatively high, with marital status and source of drinking water emerging as key factors associated with the infection

Key words: Prevalence, Helicobacter Pylori Infection, Children, Twelve Years