Age-related prevalence of Helicobacter pylori antibodies in Indian subjects.

Abstract

Our data indicate that in India exposure to Helicobacter pylori occurs early in life and is widespread; about 83% of the population is exposed to Helicobacter pylori during the first two decades of life. The comparable prevalence rates of IgG antibodies to Helicobacter pylori and hepatitis A virus, in different age groups, in India and in the West, suggest a feco-oral mode of transmission for Helicobacter pylori.