Prevalence of Oral <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> and <i>cagA</i> Gene in Healthy Young Iranian Children: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The oral cavity has been suggested as a potential reservoir for Helicobacter pylori, which plays a significant role in various health conditions. The cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA gene) encodes an important virulence factor in H. pylori infection. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of oral H. pylori and the cagA gene in healthy children (< 5 years) in Tehran, Iran, and explore associations with age, sex, family history of gastritis, and dental health status. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 160 asymptomatic children. Informed consent was obtained from parents or guardians after discussing the study details. Age, sex, and family history of gastritis were recorded using questionnaires. Dental health status was assessed by a trained dentist using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) index. Oral samples were collected with sterile cotton swabs from the buccal and sublingual mucosa. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect H. pylori and the cagA gene. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact test (α = 0.05). Results: Helicobacter pylori was detected in six participants (3.75%), and the cagA gene was present in all H. pylori-positive samples. No significant associations were found with age, sex, family history of gastritis, or the dmft score. Conclusions: A small percentage of participants had oral H. pylori, with no significant link to demographic factors, family history of gastritis, or dental health. Larger studies are needed to better understand the epidemiology and long-term risks of oral H. pylori colonization in Iranian children.