Prevalence and risk factors for the transmission of Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species among patients presenting with gastritis in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed at determining prevalence of H. pylori, E. coli and Klebsiella species, and identifying risk factors associated with H. pylori.

Setting: The study was cross sectional done in Kibera and Dagoretti areas in Nairobi, Kenya.

Subjects: Outpatient visiting Mbagathi and Mutuini hospitals presenting with gastritis were identified by clinicians and follow-up visits done to recruit immediate contacts.

Interventions: Stool samples were collected and subjected to H. pylori stool antigen and cultured on MacConkey for E. coli and Klebsiella isolation. Only stool that turned positive by kit were cultured on Columbia for H. pylori isolation and Biochemical test done.

Outcome measures: Potential risk factors were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Prevalence data was summarized as means, counts and percentages. Assessment was by measuring associations using logistic regression at 95% CI and observing significant differences, P<0.05.

Results: H. pylori, E. coli and Klebsiella were found in 34%, 49% and 18% participants respectively. A high prevalence (82%) of bacterial infection was found among persons residing in Kibera, and among close contacts (76%). Co-infections for targeted bacterial organisms was found in 25% of subjects. Place of residence, presence of other microbial agents and smoking were identified risk factors associated with H. pylori infection, (P<0.05, OR.>1). No significant associations were found between H. pylori infection and other socio-demographic factors, presence of livestock, and source of water (P>0.05).

Conclusion: Bacterial infections is on the rise hence more data should be shared for policy purposes and creation of awareness about this silent killer infection.