Knowledge, Attitudes and practices of patients towards peptic ulcer disease at Namatala Health Centre IV, Mbale City. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71020/jwhr.v3i5.89Keywords:
Level of knowledge, Attitude and practices, Patients, Peptic ulcer diseaseAbstract
Background:
PUD is a frequent gastrointestinal disease affecting the stomach and duodenum and is characterised by deep lesions in the mucosa. The purpose of this study was to identify and analyse the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of patients towards peptic ulcer disease.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. Data was collected using structured questionnaires administered to 66 respondents who were selected through convenience sampling. The collected data were analysed and presented using tables, figures, and percentages to summarise the findings.
Results:
The majority of the respondents, 23(35%), were aged above 50 years, and 10 (15%) ranged between 18 and 30 years. Most of the respondents, 25 (38%), stopped in secondary, 20(30%) stopped in primary, 15 (28%) never studied, and 6(9%) stopped at Tertiary /University. The majority of respondents (77%) had heard about peptic ulcer disease, while 23% had not. Regarding causes, 39% associated PUD with H. pylori infections, 38% attributed it to the use of NSAIDS. In terms of management practices, 50% reported drinking milk to relieve symptoms, 31% drank coffee beverages, 15 % consumed spicy and fatty foods, and only 3% smoked. Additionally, 50% of respondents had never discussed H. pylori infections with their family members, indicating a gap in awareness and communication.
Conclusion:
The study concluded that although most respondents had some awareness of peptic ulcer disease, significant gaps remain in their understanding of its causes and management. Misconceptions about dietary practices and limited knowledge of H. pylori infection contribute to poor self –care and delayed medical attention.
Recommendation:
The study recommends strengthening community health education on prevention and management of PUD, promoting routine H. pylori screening, providing counselling at health facilities on proper dietary habits, and conducting further research to address knowledge gaps and improve public awareness.
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