Helicobacter Pylori: Background, Diagnostic Methods and Nutritional Aspects

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Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria have infected one-half of the world’s population. The subset of H. pylori colonization with persistent inflammation is associated with an increased risk of developing gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gastric cancer, and iron-deficiency anaemia. There are extra-gastric diseases that potentially can weaken the immune system and thus expose the host cells to bacterial infection. Accurate diagnosis of H. pylori infection is crucial for proper eradication treatment. There are several invasive and non-invasive methods available for H. pylori detection, and each of the methods has its advantages and disadvantages. In addition, nutritional status plays an important role in the progression of the H. pylori infection, which is further discussed in this review. We believe that there will be continuous improvements in the diagnostic methods and pharmaceutical treatments in the management of H. pylori infection. The emphasis on nutritional intake in the individual diet should also be implemented in the primary healthcare setting to reduce the incidence of H. pylori infection.