HELICOBACTER-PYLORI INFECTION AND ISCHEMIC-HEART-DISEASE - IS THERE ALINK

Several studies have recently reported an association between ischaemi c heart disease and Helicobacter pylori infection. We critically revie w the epidemiological and clinical evidence on this association and ex amine the possible pathogenetic mechanisms by which Helicobacter pylor i may increase the risk of developing ischaemic heart disease. The pre sent evidence supporting the association between these two conditions is weak and based mainly on cross-sectional surveys in which it is dif ficult or impossible to separate cause and effect; moreover; the seque nce of gastric infection and heart disease is uncertain. Further prosp ective or interventional studies are needed to clarify this issue.