Helicobacter pylori is a common bacterial infection of the stomach that can cause ulcers and other digestive problems. Recent studies suggest that this infection may also affect metabolism and blood fats (lipids), which are important for heart health. Changes in lipid levels, such as higher triglycerides and lower "good" cholesterol (HDL), can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

This study will examine whether H. pylori infection is linked to changes in lipid profiles, especially the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP). AIP is a calculation based on triglycerides and HDL cholesterol that helps predict the risk of heart disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients older than 18 years.
• Able to sign the written consent.
• Willing to participate in the research and undergo H. pylori testing. Exclusion criteria
• Unwilling to participate in the study.
• History of severe metabolic disorders.
• Taking medications that affect adipose tissue metabolism.
• History of gastric surgery.

Adult patients (≥18 years) attending the Gastroenterology Unit at Tanta University Hospitals (Egypt) and the Internal Medicine Department at Tadawi Hospital (Saudi Arabia). Participants will include both men and women diagnosed with or without H. pylori infection, recruited consecutively during routine clinical visits.