ABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo explore the relationship between Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection and colorectal cancer in different continents or economic conditions. Methods Published case-control studies dealing with the correlation of colorectal cancer with Hp infection were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, High Wire Press, Ovid, Medline and EBSCO. Meta-analysis was performed by using RevMan 5.3 software. We selected the OR and 95% CI as indicators of the analysis according to different continents (Asia, Europe, and America) and economic conditions (developed countries and developing countries). Results A total of 23 studies dealing with the correlation of colorectal cancer with Hp infection were included in the present meta-analysis, and there was a total sample of 182,561 patients, including 88,378 cases in Hp positive group and 94,183 cases in Hp negative group. The results of meta-analysis showed the OR was 1.42 (95%CI 1.38-1.46). Geographically, the correlation was low in Asian countries (OR=1.29, 95%CI 1.13-1.48), and was highest in American countries (OR=1.44, 95%CI 1.39-1.48). According to the economic conditions, the correlation was low in developing countries (OR=1.17, 95%CI 1.01-1.37), and was higher in developed countries (OR=1.43, 95%CI 1.39-1.47). Conclusions Hp infection is a risk factor for colorectal cancer. It seems that there is a close relation ship between its incidence and geography, and also economic condition.