Abstract

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Helicobacter pylori the aetiologic agent of peptic ulcer, also associated with gastritis and gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma, has been reported to be prevalent in some developing countries. Taking into consideration its mode of transmission which is faecal oral, it is important for developing countries to be alert on the nation’s own prevalence, as a high rate could facilitate increase in transmission which would be detrimental to public health. This review, analyzes on available related research published online between 2010-2023, to identify the prevalence rate of H. pylori in Nigeria. The research papers collected for this review represented the North, South, East and West regions of Nigeria. Thus, showing a representative overview of prevalence rates of H. pylori in Nigeria. The range identified was 20%-80% prevalence rate, with most over 50% and the highest percentage prevalence of H. pylori, reported in the Northern region of Nigeria. Risk factors observed included among others, overcrowding, low socioeconomic class, water sources and toilet facility. Therefore taking into consideration the economic status of Nigeria, the risk factors and prevalence showed that a large proportion of Nigerians are at risk and may not have the facilities required to prevent this infection. As a result, it may be futile to limit the H. pylori prevalence management to personal efforts of individuals, rather more governmental and non governmental groups should be set up and financed to aid the control of the spread of H. pylori infection.

Keywords: H. pylori, prevalence rate