Helicobacter pylori infection in Africa: 2018 literature update

Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. 2018 Sep;64(3):222-234. doi: 10.23736/S1121-421X.18.02464-9. Epub 2018 Jan 10.

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) relationship with humans is believed to have originated in Africa and three African H. pylori populations have been identified: hpAfrica1, hpAfrica2 and hpNEAfrica. Actually, H. pylori infection is a ubiquitous infection in developing countries, particularly Africa. In this continent, the prevalence of H. pylori is higher and the bacterium is acquired at an early age compared to developed countries. In fact, while it affects over 50% of humans in developed countries its prevalence reaches 80% or more among adults in Africa. This paper reviews works in literatures, including epidemiology, virulence genes, gastric pathology and antimicrobial treatment and resistance of H. pylori in Africa.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Africa / epidemiology
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial
  • Helicobacter Infections* / drug therapy
  • Helicobacter Infections* / epidemiology
  • Helicobacter pylori* / drug effects
  • Helicobacter pylori* / genetics
  • Helicobacter pylori* / pathogenicity
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Stomach Neoplasms / microbiology