Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori: A Stealthy Resident and Its Hidden Impact
Description:
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a spiral-shaped bacterium that resides in the lining of the stomach. It‘s one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide, affecting over half of the global population.
H. pylori usually infects during childhood and can remain dormant for years without causing any symptoms. However, it has been implicated in a range of conditions, including:
Associated Diseases:
- Peptic ulcers: H. pylori is the primary cause of peptic ulcer disease, which includes ulcers in the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
- Gastric cancer: H. pylori infection is a major risk factor for stomach cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
- Gastritis: H. pylori can cause chronic inflammation of the stomach lining, known as gastritis.
- Dyspepsia (indigestion): H. pylori infection can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea.
- Iron deficiency anemia: H. pylori can interfere with iron absorption, causing anemia.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 20% of people infected with H. pylori will develop a peptic ulcer, and 1% will develop stomach cancer.
