Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of the Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Bukavu City in the Democratic Republic of Congo

The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is high in Africa. However, local surveys are still needed to be conducted for filling up the gap existing in understanding the epidemiological situation of the infection within the continent. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of H. pylori and its determinant factors in Bukavu, the capital city of Southern Kivu Province in Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted across the 3 communes risk of anti-H. pylori seropositivity by 6 (OR = 5.73 [95% CI: 1.89 - 17.41]; p = 0.002), while illiteracy (OR = 0.41 [95% CI: 0.18 - 0.97]; p = 0.043) and smoking (OR = 0.16 [95% CI: 0.04 - 0.65], p = 0.010) had paradoxical protec-tive effect against anti-H. pylori seropositivity. The seroprevalence of H. pylori is very high in Bukavu. Identification of risk groups has the potential for supporting publish health issues needed for fighting against this infection. We recommend implementing appropriate sanitation and hygiene activities, health education programs, and further investigations for addressing this endemic infection locally.