Helicobacter pylori infection and prevalence of stroke

Abstract Background Helicobacter pylori causes peptic ulcer disease; however, conflicting evidence exists regarding its role in extragastric conditions. We aimed to examine associations of H pylori infection and peptic ulcer disease with stroke. Methods A cross‐sectional study was undertaken using data of 147 936 individuals aged 25‐95 years who underwent the urea breath test during 2002‐2012, based on the computerized database of the second largest health maintenance organization in Israel. Logistic regression models were fitted to control for potential confounders. Results Overall, 1397 (0.9%) patients had stroke and 76 965 (52.0%) had a H pylori positive test. The likelihood of prevalent stroke increased in relation to H pylori infection: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.16 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.04‐1.29), gastric ulcer: aOR 1.50 (95% CI: 1.18‐1.91), and duodenal ulcer: aOR 1.25 (95% CI: 1.07‐1.46). Conclusions The results support the premise that stroke may be associated with a history of H pylori infection.