Cost-benefit analysis of Helicobacter pylori screening

Health technology The study compared two intervention strategies for the management of Helicobacter pylori (Hp). Strategy 1 was population-based Hp screening with subsequent treatment for all positive screened individuals. Strategy 2 was no screening, with the testing and treatment of Hp only if associated clinical symptoms were documented. Screening was performed using an enzyme immunoassay to investigate serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgA antibodies to Hp. Lower limits of raised titres were 700 for IgG and 70 for IgA antibodies. Treatment, which was administered for 1 week, consisted of amoxycillin (1,000 mg x 2), clarithromycin (500 mg x 2) and omeprazole (20 mg x 2).