Abstract
INTRODUCTION: This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection and kidney stone formation in China, given the high incidence of Hp infection and its potential to cause damage to multiple systems. METHODS: Conducted at the Department of Health Management of Wuhan Union Hospital, the study included 48,294 hp-negative and 28,455 hp-positive individuals. Hp infection was detected using the 13C urea breath test (13C-UBT), and kidney stones were identified via urinary Doppler ultrasonography. RESULTS: Results showed that Hp-negative (Hp-) individuals had higher levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (Scr), and uric acid compared to Hp-positive (Hp+) individuals, while Hp- patients had lower urine pH (P < 0.001). The prevalence of kidney stones was significantly higher in the Hp+ group. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses indicated that Hp infection is an independent risk factor for kidney stones (OR: 1.275, 95% CI: 1.219-1.333, P < 0.001) after adjusting for confounding factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and lipid profiles. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Helicobacter pylori infection is an independent risk factor for kidney stone development in China.