Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Among Dyspeptic Patients in Lahore: A Gender and Age-Based Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a major pathogenic factor associated with peptic ulcers, gastric malignancies, and chronic dyspeptic conditions. Its prevalence remains a significant health burden in developing countries such as Pakistan, where epidemiological data stratified by age and gender are limited. Objective: To determine the prevalence of H. pylori among dyspeptic patients in Lahore and to evaluate age- and gender-based differences using manual and automated ELISA methods. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to April 2023 in three tertiary care hospitals in Lahore. A total of 455 dyspeptic patients aged 15–85 years were enrolled. Serum samples were collected and tested for H. pylori-specific IgG antibodies using both manual and automated ELISA kits. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0, and associations with age and gender were assessed using the Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Out of 455 patients, 102 (22.41%) tested positive for H. pylori. A higher prevalence was observed in males (56.86%) compared to females (43.13%). The highest prevalence occurred in the younger age groups: 15–25 years (28.4%) and 26–35 years (23.5%). A significant correlation was found between younger age and H. pylori positivity (p < 0.05). Conclusion: H. pylori infection remains an important cause of dyspepsia in Lahore, with higher prevalence in males and younger individuals. These findings highlight the need for early screening, timely diagnosis, and targeted treatment strategies in younger populations to prevent long-term complications.