Correlation of Helicobacter pylori infection with gastroduodenal diseases in Nigeria - improvement of diagnosis and treatment

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Helicobacter pylori infections are frequent in developing countries and up to 85% of the population of Nigeria is affected. These Gram-negative bacteria are the causative agent of gastritis, peptic ulcer and represent a risk factor for the development of gastric cancers. H. pylori is fastidious to cultivate as well as diagnosis and treatment of this pathogen is difficult, especially in African countries. We managed to establish a local network consisting of four major hospitals located in different areas of Nigeria with a coordination centre in Lagos. H. pylori strains as well as biopsy material will be collected to study the epidemiological situation. Our study is aimed to implement more efficient methods for proper diagnosis and to improve treatment strategies against H. pylori, including novel and fast methods for H. pylori antibiotic resistance determination. In addition, the virulence potential of H. pylori strains in Nigeria will be determined and compared with diagnosed gastroduodenal disease. This is the first comprehensive study of its kind in Nigeria. The expected benefits include a perspective for Nigeria to build up and improve the infrastructure and the management of H. pylori-induced diseases. Our proposal integrates scientists from both Nigeria and Germany establishing a German-African network including an intense education program for Ph.D. students from Nigeria. This will result in a better career perspective for young scientists in Africa.