Helicobacter pylori infection and serum pepsinogen concentrations in an elderly population representative of Costa Rica

INTRODUCTION: Costa Rica has among the highest mortality rates from gastric cancer in world, largely due to late detection. It is therefore important that economically and logistically sustainable screening implemented order detect risk of developing cancer. We have previously shown low pepsinogen (PG) values infection with Helicobacter pylori-CagA+ are associated atrophy Rican populations. OBJECTIVES: To determine how markers for distributed an elderly population representative design a strategy. METHODS: The studied consists 2,652 participants nationally survey ageing. Information concerning epidemiologic, demographic, nutritional life style factors available. Serum PG concentrations as well H. pylori CagA status were determined by serology. Possible associations regression analyses. RESULTS: Antibodies present 72% those, 58% positive. Infection was higher PGI (p=0.000) lower (p=0.025). Both showed association PGI/PGII (p=0.006 p=0.000). Higher age prevalence (OR=0.98; p=0.000) CagA+ but not values. Regions high (p=0.004) (p=0.021) (OR=1.39; p=0.013) CagA+. Using cut-off PGI<100 µg/L PGI/PGII<2.0, 2.5 3.0, 7-15% would be considered at risk. CONCLUSIONS: alone useful marker Screening using serum feasible general appropriate based on more clinical data follow up capacity.