Helicobacter: can a DNA test help?

A consumer DNA test like MyBody-X cannot diagnose an active Helicobacter pylori infection. These tests may report genetic variants associated with increased risk for gastric cancer or peptic ulcers, but the evidence is weak – mostly from GWAS or mechanistic studies, not clinical practice. Standard diagnosis of active H. pylori infection requires a stool antigen test, urea breath test, or endoscopy with biopsy. Genetic risk testing for H. pylori is not recommended in clinical guidelines because the predictive value is low and most infections are asymptomatic. Even if a risk variant is found, it does not change management: treat only if infection is confirmed. Consumer DNA tests for H. pylori are therefore not helpful for diagnosis or treatment decisions. If you have symptoms, consult a doctor for proper testing.