Seroprevalence of Helicobacter pylori in New York City populations originating in East Asia

Helicobacter pylori prevalence is higher in developing countries than in industrialized countries, and within the latter, higher among immigrants than among native-born residents. Using a point-prevalence survey, we sought to identify risk factors for H. pylori seropositivity in US urban East Asian-born populations. At a clinic in New York City, we consecutively enrolled 194 East Asian-born adults, who then responded to a survey and provided a blood sample. Assays were performed to detect IgG antibodies against whole cell (WC) and cytotoxin associated gene A (CagA) antigens of H. pylori. For this group (mean age 50.2 ± 14.7 years), the mean period of residence in the Unites States was 11.9±7.7 years. The total H. pylori seroprevalence was 70.1%, with highest (81.4%) in Fujianese immigrants. Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated an independent association of H. pylori seropositivity with Fujianese origin [odds ratios (OR) =2.3, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) =1.05-5.0] and inverse associations with period in the United States (OR per year of residency in the United States =0.95, 95% CI =0.91-0.99) and with a history of dyspepsia (OR for a history of stomach pain =0.52, 95% CI =0.3-1.0). We conclude that H. pylori is highly prevalent among recent East Asian immigrants, especially among Fujianese. The protective effects of history of dyspepsia and duration in the United States suggest that these may be markers for antibiotic therapies.