Epidemiology ofHelicobacter pyloriin Australia: a scoping review

Abstract

Background Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium implicated in the development of peptic ulcer and gastric cancer, is estimated to infect around half the world’s population. Its prevalence in Australia is unclear. This scoping review aimed to evaluate all Australian literature providing estimates of the prevalence of H. pylori. Methods Australian studies examining H. pylori prevalence from 1982 onwards were eligible for inclusion. Medline, Embase and Scopus databases, and grey literature sources, were searched. Two independent reviewers undertook a two-stage screening process. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers using a pre-specified template. Results Of 444 identified studies, 75 were included in the review. H. pylori prevalence in Australian population-based studies (n = 8) ranged from 38.0% in 1991 to 15.1% in 2002; however, estimated prevalence across all non-clinical population studies in diverse sub-groups (n = 29) has varied dramatically. Decreased prevalence has been more marked in populations with gastrointestinal symptoms and conditions compared to non-clinical populations. Data on H. pyloriprevalence in vulnerable populations are lacking. Conclusions This is the first scoping review of Australian studies reporting H. pylori prevalence. A wide range of study designs, population groups, geographic regions, and diagnostic methods was included, involving data collected over a 50-year period (1969 to 2018). The summary of H. pylori prevalence estimates over time in this review points to a decrease in prevalence in Australia, particularly among populations with gastrointestinal symptoms and illnesses; however, it is unknown whether there is inequity in prevalence trends across vulnerable sub-groups of the Australian population. Future research and interventions supporting the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations is required to ensure equitable health gains are made for all.

The Suitability of Stool Antigen Testing in the Detection of Helicobacter pylori in a Regional and Rural Area of Australia

“…This study found that approximately 15% of all NITs for H. pylori were positive. This matched the reported prevalence of H. pylori in Australia which has been estimated to range between 15.1% and 38.0% [34]. When looking at NIT methodologies, this study suggested that clinicians in the Illawarra Shoalhaven regions prefer UBT as the primary noninvasive H. pylori detection method.…”

“…In Australia, prevalence has been estimated to range between 15.1% and 38.0% with increasing prevalence recognised amongst subgroups such as indigenous or elderly populations [34]. For this study, the prevalence in each population area was calculated under the assumption that the positive H. pylori result was representative of the total area population.…”

The Role of Probiotics in the Eradication of Helicobacter pylori and Overall Impact on Management of Peptic Ulcer: A Study Involving Patients Undergoing Triple Therapy in Bangladesh

“…Congedi et al published a scoping review that reported a decreased tendency of H. pylori infection among Australian citizens. Nevertheless, the scoping review could not confirm the infectious potential of H. pylori among susceptible clusters [22]. Another systematic review conducted by Peleteiro et al reported that the highest and lowest rates of H pylori infection were found in Mexico (90%) and Finland (13.1%), respectively [23].…”