Prevalence and Sociodemographic Correlates of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Tehsil Mandanr, District Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63075/k1q27v68Keywords:
Helicobacter Pylori, Prevalence, Sociodemographic Factors, Buner, Pakistan, Cross-Sectional Study.Abstract
Background: Helicobacter pylori is a major gastric pathogen associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Its prevalence varies globally, with higher rates in developing regions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated sociodemographic risk factors of H. pylori infection in Tehsil Mandanr, District Buner, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2025, involving 256 participants selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and diagnostic tests. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sociodemographic variables and infection rates.
Results: The overall prevalence of H. pylori infection was 64% (163/256). Infection rates were higher in males (80%) compared to females (20%). The most affected age group was 21–40 years (66%), followed by 5–20 years (19%) and >40 years (15%). Higher infection rates were observed among individuals with high school education (37.4%), students (25.8%), and those with monthly incomes between PKR 31,000–50,000 (42.9%).
Conclusion: H. pylori infection is highly prevalent in Tehsil Mandanr, with significant associations with male gender, younger age, lower education, and middle-income status. Public health interventions targeting awareness, hygiene, and socioeconomic conditions are recommended.
