Helicobacter pylori Infection and Cognitive Function in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Muhsen Khitam, Ornoy Asher, Akawi Ashraf, Alpert Gershon, Cohen Dani
Primary Institution: Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University
Hypothesis
H. pylori infection might negatively affect cognitive development.
Conclusion
H. pylori infection is associated with lower cognitive function at early school age, particularly in children from higher socioeconomic backgrounds.
Supporting Evidence
- H. pylori infection was linked to lower IQ scores in children from higher socioeconomic communities.
- The study controlled for socioeconomic and nutritional factors.
- Children with H. pylori infection had significantly lower full-scale IQ scores compared to uninfected children.
Takeaway
Kids with a stomach bug called H. pylori might not do as well in school, especially if they come from families with more money.
Methodology
A community-based study assessed H. pylori infection and cognitive function in 200 children aged 6-9 years using stool samples and IQ tests.
Potential Biases
Potential residual confounding factors may still be present.
Limitations
The small sample size limited the precision of the effect estimates and the ability to assess the duration of H. pylori infection.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 6-9 years from different socioeconomic backgrounds in Israeli Arab communities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
95% CI -11.4, -0.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website