H. pylori bacteria --what is it and who gets it??

H. pylori (Helicobacter) bacteria is a spiral shaped bacteria that causes most ulcers.  80% of stomach ulcers and 90% of duodenal ulcers are caused by this germ.  This germ thrives in the acidy environment of the stomach and can penetrate the inner mucosal lining causing ulcers.   It’s much more common than we might think:  half of adults over 60 have the H. pylori germ and the experts believe they have had the bacteria since they were children.  Among people age 40 and younger, only 20% of people are believed to have the H. pylori germ living in their stomach.  The experts believe we get the H. pylori germ through food and water sources.  (I speculate that the improved water conditions in America in the last 60 years have helped protect younger people from this germ.)  More information can be found at  http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/h-pylori-helicobacter-pylori