Seroprevalence of Anti-Helicobacter pylori IgG Antibodies Among Patients with Gastritis in Wasit Province, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Helicobacter pylori forms an important part of the epidemiology of chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers and is known to have significant long-term gastric complications. Objective: To measure the anti-Helicobacter pylori antibody levels and their relationship with some demographic and haematological parameters in patients with gastritis in Wasit Province in Iraq. Methods: This is a cross sectional study carried out at Al-Kima and Al-Hiat Laboratories of Al-Kut City, Wasit Province, Iraq from February to June 2021 using 100 cases about gastritis. Anti-H. pylori antibodies identified in the serum were performed by rapid immunochromatographic testing. Data on the demographic characteristics and complete blood count (CBC) were gathered and analysed using the SPSS version 25. Results: Of the 100 patients enrolled, 39 were male and 61 were female. Anti-H. pylori antibodies were detected in 41 patients, giving an overall seroprevalence of 41.0%. Seropositivity was observed in 43.6% of males and 39.3% of females. Most seropositive patients had normal white blood cell counts (90.2%) and normal hemoglobin levels (80.5%). Similarly, most seronegative patients had normal white blood cell counts (81.4%) and normal hemoglobin levels (79.7%). No statistically significant associations were found between seropositivity and gender, white blood cell status, or hemoglobin status. Conclusion: The seroprevalence of anti-Helicobacter pylori antibodies among patients with gastritis in Wasit Province was 41.0%. Although no significant association was observed with gender or hemoglobin status, the findings highlight the continued relevance of H. pylori in gastritis. Larger studies using confirmatory diagnostic methods and broader clinical assessment are recommended.