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World J Gastroenterol. Aug 14, 2014; 20(30): 10348-10354
Published online Aug 14, 2014. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i30.10348
Prevention of Helicobacter pylori infection in childhood
Oya Yucel
Oya Yucel, Pediatric Department, Istanbul Health Education and Research Hospital, Baskent University, 34662 Istanbul, Turkey
Author contributions: Yucel O solely contributed to this paper.
Correspondence to: Oya Yucel, Associate Professor, Pediatric Department, Istanbul Health Education and Research Hospital, Baskent University, No. 22 Uskudar, 34662 Istanbul, Turkey. oyayucel2000@yahoo.com
Telephone: +90-532-3565456 Fax: +90-216-4114033
Received: November 1, 2013
Revised: March 12, 2014
Accepted: April 15, 2014
Published online: August 14, 2014
Processing time: 293 Days and 1.5 Hours
Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is one of the most common infections worldwide. Although infection rates are falling in the developed and developing countries, H. pylori is still widespread in the world. This article has reviewed the important publications on H. pylori in childhood with a focus on its evolving transmission route and the source of infection and preventive strategies in childhood, PubMed was searched up to identify eligible studies. Relevant publications were searched using the following.

Keywords: Children; Growth retardation; Helicobacter pylori; Iron deficiency; Prevalence; Prevention; Transmission

Core tip: This review has focused on transmission route and the source of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and preventive strategies in childhood. The best way to decrease the prevalence of H. pylori infection in children is to educate women about how to protect themselves and their offspring from H. pylori infection. H. pylori infection rates may be decreased dramatically with improvements in sanitary infrastructure and household hygienic practices.