Dramatic changes in the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection during childhood: a 10-year follow-up study in Russia.

Background: The prevalence and rate of acquisition of Helicobacter pylori infection in children from developing countries is higher than in developed countries. This phenomenon has been related to differences in socioeconomic status, sanitation, and household hygiene. Russia is in the process of transforming from an underdeveloped to a developed country.