AUTHOR=Che Thai Hoang , Nguyen Tu Cam , Vu Vy Ngoc Thao , Nguyen Hiep Thanh , Hoang Dung Thi Phuong , Ngo Xuan Minh , Truong Dinh Quang , Bontems Patrick , Robert Annie , Nguyen Phuong Ngoc Van 

TITLE=Factors Associated With Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among School-Aged Children From a High Prevalence Area in Vietnam

JOURNAL=International Journal of Public Health

VOLUME=Volume 68 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/international-journal-of-public-health/articles/10.3389/ijph.2023.1605908

DOI=10.3389/ijph.2023.1605908

ISSN=1661-8564

ABSTRACT=Objectives: The study aimed to identify risk factors and the main transmission route of Helicobacter pylori infection in pupils of Ho Chi Minh city (HCMC).
Methods: A total of 1476 pupils was enrolled to this cross-sectional study by using multiple-stage sampling method. Infection status was assessed using stool antigen-test. A questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Logistic regression was performed to assess possible factors related to the infection. 
Results:We found that rarely or sometimes handwashing with soap after toilet (OR = 1.65, 95% Cl: 1.08 – 2.55), and the use of only water to clean after toilet (OR = 3.13, 95% Cl: 1.28 – 7.64) are independent factors associated with higher risk of H.pylori. Crowded living areas, larger family size, and younger age were also independently associated with the infection.
Conclusion: Our results highlight the importance of fecal-oral route and the attribution of crowded living conditions to the spreading of H.pylori in HCMC. Therefore, preventive programs should be set up with a focus on education of hygiene practices, and oriented to those living in crowded conditions.