What is Helicobacter pylori infection and whom does it affect?What is Helicobacter pylori infection and whom does it affect?

What is Helicobacter pylori infection and whom does it affect?

What is Helicobacter pylori infection and whom does it affect?

Helicobacter pylori (commonly just called H. pylori) is a bacterium (germ). It can infect the lining of the stomach and duodenum. It is one of the most common infections in the UK although it is getting less common as time goes by. More than a quarter of people in the UK become infected with H. pylori at some stage in their life. Once you are infected, unless treated, the infection usually stays for the rest of your life.

Most people with H. pylori infection will never have any signs or symptoms. It's not clear why this is, but scientists believe some people may be born with more resistance to the harmful effects of H. pylori.