The prevalence of exposure to the bacteria Helicobacter pylori in Central Texas is unknown. It has been shown that elderly individuals have a higher rate of infection than younger individuals. Exposure is even higher in the elderly living in long term care facilities. Evidence of exposure can be demonstrated by the presence of antibody to H. pylori. Plasma samples collected from several age groups are tested for the antibody to determine the exposure rate for different age groups. DESIGN: An exemption was granted by the TexasState University Institutional Review Board (IRB) as the plasma samples had been previously collected for other types of laboratory assessments. Samples were tested with the Status H. pylori ® Immunoassay that identifies anti-H. pylori IgG antibody in plasma samples.