Factors associated with parietal cell autoantibodies in the general population

► Serum parietal cell autoantibodies (PCA) are typical of autoimmune gastritis. ► In the general population PCA are more frequent in postmenopausal women. ► PCA are more frequent in people with insulin resistance. ► Smoking and alcohol consumption have a strong protective association with PCA. ► In patients who smoke or drink alcohol, clinicians should be cautious about PCA.