• Jeremie Kasereka
• Dr. Amanuel Kidane Andegiorgish
• Dr. Monica Mochama

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a globally prevalent bacterial infection, affecting nearly half of the world’s population and posing a significant public health challenge, especially in developing countries. It is associated with gastrointestinal conditions such as peptic ulcers, chronic gastritis, and gastric cancer. Despite this, limited data exist on its prevalence and risk factors in Rwanda, particularly at Ruhengeri Referral Hospital. This study aims to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection and identify associated factors among adult outpatients. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 adults using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through structured interviews and H. pylori stool antigen testing. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20, with descriptive statistics used to determine prevalence, chi-square tests to explore associations, and logistic regression to identify independent predictors. The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 33.4%. Male participants had significantly higher infection rates (p = 0.048). Consumption of fermented foods (p = 0.005) and processed meats (p < 0.001) were linked to increased risk. Environmental and behavioral factors such as eating outside the home (p = 0.039), having infected family members (p = 0.024), inconsistent handwashing (p < 0.001), and irregular use of clean water (p < 0.001) were also associated. These findings emphasize the need for targeted public health interventions focusing on hygiene, safe water access, and dietary education to curb H. pylori transmission.

H. pylori, Prevalence, Associated factors

"Prevalence and Factors Associated with Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among Adult Patients Attending Ruhengeri Referral Hospital, Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no.f17-f31, November-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511524.pdf

"Prevalence and Factors Associated with Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among Adult Patients Attending Ruhengeri Referral Hospital, Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no. ppf17-f31, November-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511524.pdf