Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori infection among school-age children (6-15years) in Jalalabad Afghanistan.

ABSTRACT:

Background

H. pylori infection poses a significant public health burden in low- and middle-income countries. In children, it can cause gastritis, abdominal pain, anemia, and growth retardation, and increase the risk of peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. This study examines its prevalence and determinants among 6-15-year-old children in Jalalabad, Afghanistan.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2023 to March 2024 among 460 school-aged children (6-15 years) in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, using multistage stratified random sampling. H. pylori infection was assessed via stool antigen test, and socio-demographic, economic, and hygiene-related factors were analyzed using logistic regression to identify independent risk factors.

Results

Amo

SUBMITTER: Shinwari AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12659387 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature