Background: The success of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication depends on several host and treatment factors. Serum vitamin D levels may be associated with H. pylori infection and eradication rates. We investigated the association between vitamin D and H. pylori infection and eradication, using a large electronic database based on medical records from a population-based health maintenance organization.
Methods: Data regarding adults who underwent H. pylori testing and had vitamin D measurements within one month of H. pylori testing were collected. H. pylori infection was ascertained using urea breath or stool antigen tests. A negative H. pylori test following a positive result implied eradication. Multivariate regression models were constructed to assess associations between H. pylori infection, eradication, and vitamin D.
Results: Among 150,483 members who underwent H. pylori testing from 2009 to 2018, 27,077 (18%) had vitamin D measurements. Vitamin D levels were inversely associated with H. pylori infection, p < 0.001. The odds of a positive H. pylori test were 31% higher among patients with vitamin D levels <20 ng/mL, compared with those with levels ≥20 ng/mL (OR 1.31, 99% CI 1.22-1.4, p < 0.001). Purchase of vitamin D supplements was associated with a negative subsequent H. pylori test (p < 0.001). Mean vitamin D levels were moderately higher in those with successful vs. failed H. pylori eradication (19.34 ± 9.55 vs. 18.64 ± 9.61, p < 0.001).
Conclusions: Vitamin D levels are associated with H. pylori infection. Increased vitamin D levels are associated with successful H. pylori eradication. Vitamin D may have a role in H. pylori eradication.
Keywords: 25-hydroxyvitamin D2; Helicobacter pylori eradication; Helicobacter pylori infection; Israel; vitamin D.