Know Your Risks

H. pylori is common and more dangerous than many people realize.

H. pylori is a bacterial infection that affects around 40% of people in the U.S. and two-thirds of people worldwide. Most people don’t know they have it, but over time, it can lead to serious health problems, including ulcers and stomach cancer.

 

You may be at higher risk for H. pylori if you:

  • Live with someone who has it. It can spread through shared dishes, kissing, or poor handwashing.
  • Live in crowded conditions or have limited access to clean water.
  • Drink untreated well water, especially in rural areas.
  • Have lived in or traveled to a developing country — long-term travel and military service may increase risk.
  • Have a family history of gastric (stomach) cancer.
  • Have a history of ulcers or unexplained stomach symptoms.
  • Eat or drink contaminated food or water.
  • Smoking
  • Are middle-aged or older

How you can get Hpylori

 

Elbaiomy, R.G., Luo, X., Guo, R. et al. Antibiotic resistance in Helicobacter pylori: a genetic and physiological perspective. Gut Pathogens 17, 35 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13099-025-00704-5. CC-BY-4.0

Persistent stomach issues like bloating, heartburn, or stomach pain?

These could be signs of an H. pylori infection — a common but often overlooked cause. Check the Symptoms page to see what else to watch for.

Explore Symptoms

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