Helicobacter pylori in immigrants from East Africa

This study determines the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection in a group of immigrants from East Africa with dyspepsia symptoms. Costs of trea tment (including financial costs, adverse effects of treatment, and complex ity of care) are compared for empiric treatment and treatment guided by ser ologic testing. Of the symptomatic patients, 93% had H. pylori antibodies. Empiric treatment of all patients with dyspepsia could reduce the cost of c are by approximately half, with minimal risk to uninfected patients.