KNOWLEDGE, PERCEPTIONS AND PREVENTIVE PRACTICES ON PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN THE UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR, NIGERIA
Author(s): Uzomba, C. I; Nsa, E. I; Uzomba, A. E; Odu, V. E; Etuk, I. S
Institute(s): 1,2,5 Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar; 3,4 Department of Public Health, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar
Volume 5 / Issue 1
Abstract
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a problem of public health concern in our environment. Undergraduates represent a vulnerable population susceptible to developing PUD due to various factors, including poor dietary habits, stress, and substance use. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, perceptions and preventive practices on peptic ulcer disease among undergraduates in the University of Calabar, Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive study among undergraduates in the University of Calabar, Nigeria. Four hundred and five respondents were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 23. The results reveal that out of the 405 respondents, the male to female ratio is 1.2:1, aged 16 to 25 years with a mean age of 21.9 ± 4.3 years. Poor, fair and good knowledge levels of peptic ulcer disease were in 58.8%, 38.5% and 3% respectively. Majority of the respondents (67.2%) had positive perception. Most of the respondents (79.0%) practiced good hygiene, 54.8% prioritized regular health check-ups and screenings to identify potential health issues early. Some respondents reported that preventive practices included: avoiding spicy or acidic foods (76.0%), careful use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (60.2%), avoidance of smoking (62.0%), and moderate or no alcohol consumption (76.3%), regular exercise and balanced diet (63.2%). Conclusively, the study revealed that although respondents had positive perceptions of peptic ulcer disease, their knowledge levels were poor, which could hinder effective preventive practices. Hence, it is recommended that health education programmes on peptic ulcer diseases and proper use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be incorporated in the study area.
Number of Pages: 9
Number of Words: 3361
First Page: 67
Last Page: 75