Data collection

We collected demographic, clinical, and economic data from H. pylori-positive patients. The study required a minimum of two visits during the 6-month survey. Patients were recruited by consecutive sampling method, according to the order in which they presented to the Gastroenterologist for consultation. We included only those cases where we are able to get all data from beginning to end of therapy. The data were collected from patients' treatment chart/case sheets, laboratory reports, medication bills, and patient's attendees. All subjects gave informed consent to participate in the study and allowed the use of their personal data for research purposes. First endoscopy was performed at the beginning of the study for detection of gastrointestinal ulcers. Presence of H. pylori was confirmed by rapid urease test (CLO test). Second endoscopy was performed after every 10 days for 1 month after the completion of their treatments until the H. pylori status was found to be negative. Direct costs included costs of medical consumption (consultations, medication, diagnostic tests, and hospitalizations) related to diagnosis and treatment of disease.[9]