Helicobacter pylori Seroprevalence among Hostel-Resident Students of Rivers State University, Nigeria

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium implicated in chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastric malignancies. This study evaluated the seroprevalence of H. pylori infection and associated risk factors among students of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. A total of 100 students were randomly recruited for the study. Whole blood samples were collected and screened using a rapid H. pylori antibody test kit, while socio-demographic characteristics and potential risk factors were obtained using structured questionnaires. The overall seroprevalence of H. pylori infection was 54%. A slightly higher prevalence was observed among females (56.36%) compared to males (51.11%); however, this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Chi-square analysis further revealed no significant association between H. pylori seropositivity and gender or age (p > 0.05). Although infection was most frequent among students aged 16–20 years, H. pylori was broadly distributed across all demographic categories, suggesting relatively uniform exposure within the study population. These findings highlight the need for improved hygiene practices, sanitation, and targeted awareness programs, particularly within university hostel environments, to reduce H. pylori transmission. In conclusion, the high seroprevalence indicates that H. pylori infection remains a significant public health concern among university students, warranting proactive preventive and educational interventions.