Helicobacter pylori as a risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases
L.V. PUZYRYOVA, ZH.M. ALIMBETOV, Z.D. MAGOMEDOV
Omsk State Medical University, Omsk
Contact details:
Puzyryova L.V. — MD, Associate Professor of the Higher Attestation Commission, Head of the Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Address: 12 Lenin St., 644099 Omsk, Russian Federation, tel.: +7-913-149-12-32, e-mail: puzirevalv@mail.ru
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common pathogen traditionally associated with the upper digestive tract diseases. However, recent studies have shown that it may also play a role in the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Timely detection and treatment of H. pylori infection can be considered an important part of preventing cardiovascular pathology.
The purpose — to evaluate the impact of Helicobacter pylori infection on the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease; to explore current ideas about its effects on lipid metabolism, the vascular wall, and systemic inflammation.
Material and methods. We reviewed the 2014–2025 Russian and international studies on the association between H. pylori and atherosclerosis. Data from clinical observations and meta-analyses of infected and uninfected patients were analyzed.
Results. We found a reliable association between chronic H. pylori infection and signs of clinical atherosclerosis and lipid metabolism disorders. Strains that contain the CagA gene are linked to increased inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Eradication therapy can improve the lipid profile and reduce the level of inflammatory markers.
Conclusion. Thus, H. pylori infection is a significant non-traditional risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Timely diagnosis and treatment of infection can be considered as an additional area of prevention of cardiovascular pathology, especially in patients with dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome.
Key words: Helicobacter pylori, atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular pathology, inflammation.
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