Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
Background: Conflicting results exist on the association between Helicobacter pylori infection and gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), and its complications, such as erosive oesophagitis (EO) and Barrett's oesophagus (BO).
Aims: To explore the association of H. pylori infection with GOR symptoms and their complications
Methods: We searched Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases through December 2020 for relevant articles. Regarding the association between H. pylori and GOR symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation or reflux), we included observational studies comparing the prevalence of GOR symptoms between H. pylori-positive and -negative individuals. Concerning the association between H. pylori and complications of GOR, we included studies comparing the prevalence of EO or BO between H. pylori-positive and -negative individuals.
Results: In total, 36 papers were eligible. Based on seven cross-sectional surveys, H. pylori infection was associated with a lower odds of GOR symptoms (odds ratio [OR] 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61–0.90). However, in four case-control studies, H. pylori infection was not associated with odds of GOR symptoms (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.85–0.1.43). In 26 cross-sectional studies in patients with GOR symptoms, the OR for EO was 0.70 (95% CI 0.58–0.84) in H. pylori-positive vs -negative cases. Based on nine cross-sectional studies in subjects with GOR complications, no significant association was found between
