Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection amongst food vendors in the main market of Gulu City. Cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i2.2296Keywords:
Helicobacter pylori prevalence, food vendors, Gulu City, sanitation, hygiene practicesAbstract
Background:
Helicobacter pylori infection is a widespread gastrointestinal infection affecting more than half of the global population, with higher prevalence in low-resource settings due to poor sanitation and hygiene. This study aims to determine the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection amongst food vendors in the main market of Gulu City.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study design was conducted involving 113 food vendors selected through a simple random sampling method. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using Microsoft Excel.
Results:
The study involved 113 respondents, 70.8% were female, and 29.2% male. (32.7%) were aged 26-35 years, followed closely by those aged 36-45 years (31.1%), while 19.5% were between 18-25 years, and 16.8% were 46 years and above. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was higher among females (62.5%) than males (54.5%), suggesting that gender-related differences in hygiene practices or risk exposure may influence infection rates. In terms of age, most participants were aged 26-35 years (32.7%) and 36-45 years (31.1%), representing the most active and economically productive age. This age category’s high participation in food vending also reflects a greater likelihood of exposure to H. pylori infection, since they are the most engaged in daily food handling activities. The majority of respondents came from Gulu (37.1%), followed by Arua (22.1%) and Kitgum (14.2%). This distribution suggests that most food vendors were local residents or nearby migrants who have long-term exposure to the same market environment, potentially increasing the risk of cross-contamination and persistent infection within the area.
Conclusion:
The study shows a notable prevalence of H. pylori infection among food vendors in Gulu City, with higher rates in females and those aged 26–45 years.
Recommendations:
Health education on hygiene and safe food handling should be strengthened among vendors, alongside improved sanitation facilities in the market.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Winfrey Winnie Awanga, Emmanuel Kafeero , Hasifa Nansereko, Francisco Ssemuwemba , Anthony Ssekitoleko, Jane Frank Nalubega
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