Infection by Helicobacter pylori It is a bacterial condition that affects The stomach And that, in many cases, goes unnoticed for years. This bacterium, highly resistant to the acidic environment of the Digestive systemcan alter the gastric balance, generate inflammation in the mucosa and trigger various diseases if it is not detected in time.
Although its presence is frequent globally, understanding the causes of Helicobacter pylori infection is essential to reduce its propagation and prevent long -term complications. “Transmission is usually associated with precarious hygienic conditions, close contact with infected people and contaminated food or water consumption,” says Carlos Gutiérrez, internist doctor.
Several studies have indicated that certain individual, social and environmental factors increase vulnerability to this infection. Knowing them allows you to adopt concrete prevention measures and act in time to possible symptoms.
What is Helicobacter pylori and how is it transmitted?
“Helicobacter pylori It is a bacterium that is housed in the stomach mucosa, capable of surviving in an acidic environment thanks to its ureasa production, an enzyme that neutralizes gastric acid, ”explains Mario López, gastroenterologist.
The transmission occurs mainly orally, although it can also occur by direct contact from person to person or through contaminated food and water.
Once in the body, the bacteria can cause chronic inflammation in the gastric mucosa, weakening the stomach protective barrier and allowing the acid to damage the tissues, which generates symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion and, in more severe cases, ulcers or digestive bleeding.
Risk factors associated with Helicobacter pylori
There are multiple circumstances that increase the probability of contracting this bacterium. Next, the main risk factors recognized by specialists are detailed:
1. deficient hygiene conditions
The lack of access to drinking water, inadequate sanitation and insufficient hygiene practices, such as not washing their hands before eating or after going to the bathroom, significantly increase the possibility of infection.
2. Contaminated food and water consumption
Eating raw or poorly washed foods, as well as ingesting unrelated water, represents a common route of entry for bacteria. Food storage and preparation conditions are also decisive.
3. Live in overcrowding conditions
Sharing reduced spaces with many people facilitates the transmission of H. pyloriespecially when there is little ventilation and utensils or personal items are shared.
4. Close contact with infected people
The coexistence with people who already carry the bacteria can facilitate contagion, especially if cutlery, toothbrushes, bottles or other objects without proper hygiene are shared.
5. Early Exhibition Age
Several studies have shown that infection is usually acquired during childhood. Children exposed to environments with low hygiene levels are particularly susceptible.
6. Genetic and environmental factors
Although genetics alone does not determine contagion, some people present greater predisposition to develop complications derived from infection. Likewise, certain environmental factors, such as pollution or excessive use of non -steroidal anti -inflammatories, can aggravate the effects of bacteria on the stomach.
How to reduce the risk of infection?
Prevent the contagion of Helicobacter pylori It involves adopting healthy habits and sustainable hygiene measures:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Consume safe water and well cooked food.
- Avoid sharing utensils and personal objects without prior disinfection.
- Perform medical controls before persistent digestive symptoms.
In addition, it is important to go to a specialist if frequent gastric discomforts occur, since an early diagnosis allows more effective treatment and reduces the risk of long -term complications.