Project – Knowledge of causes and preventive measures of pyruvic ulcer Among Alvan Ikoku Federal University students Owerri imo State

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a significant gastrointestinal condition caused by the erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining, often resulting from an imbalance between gastric acid secretion and mucosal defense mechanisms. Studies highlight that the major etiological agents of PUD are Helicobacter pylori infection and the chronic use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Sung et al., 2009). Among students, particularly in higher education, the prevalence of PUD has been linked to stress, irregular eating habits, and self-medication with NSAIDs, all of which are behaviors associated with academic and lifestyle pressures (Jain & Yadav, 2016).

A number of studies have assessed students’ awareness and knowledge of the causes of PUD. Research conducted by Nwokediuko et al. (2013) in Nigeria revealed that many students held misconceptions about the disease, with a significant number attributing it solely to spicy foods or skipping meals. While such factors may exacerbate symptoms, they are not the primary causes. Only a minority of students correctly identified H. pylori or NSAID use as causative agents. This knowledge gap highlights the need for improved health education within tertiary institutions.

Preventive measures are generally well understood in the medical community but less so among students. Recommendations include avoiding excessive use of NSAIDs, cessation of smoking and alcohol intake, maintaining regular meals, and managing stress levels (Malfertheiner et al., 2017). However, in a study by Adamu and Ibrahim (2020), only 45% of surveyed university students practiced any form of dietary regulation or stress management aimed at ulcer prevention. This indicates that awareness does not necessarily translate to behavioral change, underlining the need for both knowledge and motivation.

The level of awareness and preventive practices appears to vary by discipline. Students enrolled in health-related courses such as medicine, nursing, or biology demonstrated significantly better understanding and practice compared to their counterparts in non-science disciplines (Okeke & Aniebue, 2015). This disparity suggests that curriculum exposure plays a role in shaping students’ health behaviors. Peer education and health campaigns on campuses could help bridge this knowledge gap across all disciplines.

Moreover, students often resort to self-medication for symptoms of dyspepsia or gastric discomfort, without proper medical consultation. The unsupervised use of antacids, NSAIDs, or herbal remedies can lead to complications or delayed diagnosis of underlying peptic ulcers. A study conducted in Ethiopia found that over 60% of university students used over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms without understanding the potential risks (Tadele et al., 2019). This underlines the critical role of awareness in promoting safe health practices.

In conclusion, while PUD remains a prevalent condition among students due to lifestyle and behavioral factors, there is a significant gap in their knowledge regarding its causes and prevention. Misconceptions and low awareness contribute to risky behaviors, including poor diet, stress neglect, and inappropriate medication use. Interventions such as health education campaigns, counseling, and stress management programs tailored to student populations could enhance knowledge, shift attitudes, and ultimately reduce the incidence of peptic ulcers among students.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD), characterized by the erosion of the gastric or duodenal lining, continues to be a significant health concern globally, including among university students. The prevalence of this condition is particularly alarming among young adults who are often exposed to risk factors such as stress, poor dietary habits, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Although medical research has extensively documented the causes and preventive measures of PUD, there remains a significant gap in the awareness of these factors among students. This lack of knowledge may lead to risky health behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing PUD, further contributing to the burden of gastrointestinal diseases among young populations.

Despite the well-established understanding that Helicobacter pylori infection and the excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are primary causes of peptic ulcers, studies have indicated that students often attribute the condition to misconceptions, such as spicy foods or irregular meal patterns. This misunderstanding not only misguides students about the nature of the disease but also prevents them from adopting effective preventive strategies. Research shows that most students have limited knowledge about the critical role of H. pylori and the dangers of NSAID overuse. As a result, they may fail to seek appropriate treatment or engage in necessary lifestyle changes, thus exacerbating their risk of ulcer development.

Furthermore, while the causes of peptic ulcers are well-documented, there is limited research on the extent to which university students understand the preventive measures available to mitigate the risk of developing the disease. Preventive practices such as avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, managing stress, and adhering to a balanced diet are well-recognized methods to reduce the incidence of PUD. However, studies have suggested that many students neglect these strategies due to lifestyle pressures, lack of health education, and limited access to healthcare resources. This knowledge gap concerning preventive measures, coupled with the high-stress environment of academic life, presents a significant public health concern.

The impact of this knowledge deficiency extends beyond students’ health. Peptic ulcer disease can lead to serious complications, including bleeding, perforation, and gastric cancer, which significantly impair students’ academic performance and overall quality of life. If students are unaware of the risks associated with their habits, such as poor eating practices, irregular sleep, and the use of over-the-counter medications, they are less likely to take proactive measures in managing or preventing PUD. As a result, the long-term consequences of PUD could have far-reaching effects on their physical and mental well-being.

Furthermore, a lack of awareness about the causes and preventive measures of PUD may contribute to students’ reliance on self-medication and unregulated treatments, which can complicate their condition. Many students self-medicate with antacids or pain relievers to alleviate discomfort without understanding the underlying pathology of peptic ulcers or the dangers of improper medication use. This practice could delay a proper diagnosis and increase the risk of adverse outcomes, further necessitating health education interventions that emphasize safe and effective management strategies for PUD.

In conclusion, the problem of insufficient knowledge about the causes and preventive measures of peptic ulcer disease among students is critical and warrants immediate attention. Without adequate education on this subject, students may continue to engage in harmful behaviors that increase their susceptibility to PUD. Therefore, it is essential to design and implement educational programs that provide accurate information about the disease, its causes, and preventive practices to reduce the burden of PUD on university campuses and improve the overall health and well-being of students.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine knowledge of causes and preventive measures of pyruvic ulcer Among Alvan ikoku federal University students Owerri imo State. The specific objectives are:

1. To identify the common causes of pyruvic ulcers in the population.
2. To explore the relationship between lifestyle factors and the development of pyruvic ulcers.
3. To investigate the effectiveness of various preventive measures in reducing the risk of pyruvic ulcers.
4. To assess the knowledge and awareness of pyruvic ulcers among the general public.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below;

1. What are the common causes of pyruvic ulcers in the population?
2. How do lifestyle factors contribute to the development of pyruvic ulcers?
3. What is the effectiveness of various preventive measures in reducing the risk of pyruvic ulcers?
4. What is the level of knowledge and awareness of pyruvic ulcers among the general public?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is stated below:

Ho: Lifestyle factors has no effect on the development of pyruvic ulcers.

H1: Lifestyle factors has effect on the development of pyruvic ulcers.

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in addressing the growing concern of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) among students, particularly at Alvan Ikoku Federal University, Owerri, Imo State. Peptic ulcers are a widespread health issue that can severely affect students’ academic performance, well-being, and overall quality of life. By investigating the knowledge of causes and preventive measures of PUD among students at this university, the study aims to fill a critical gap in understanding the factors that contribute to the disease’s prevalence. This knowledge is essential in developing targeted interventions that will help in reducing the incidence and improving the health outcomes of students at this institution.

One of the key aspects of this study’s significance is its potential to raise awareness about the risk factors that contribute to the development of PUD. Many students may not fully understand the roles of Helicobacter pylori infection, stress, irregular eating habits, excessive consumption of alcohol, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as major contributors to peptic ulcers. By assessing students’ understanding of these risk factors, the study can provide critical insights into areas where students are most misinformed or unaware. This information can then inform targeted health education campaigns designed to address these knowledge gaps and promote healthier lifestyle choices.

The findings of this study will also be instrumental in identifying gaps in the preventive practices adopted by students at Alvan Ikoku Federal University. Knowledge of the disease’s causes alone is insufficient if students do not know how to effectively prevent it. The study will explore how well students are aware of and practice preventive measures such as proper stress management, regular meal times, avoiding self-medication, and the importance of seeking medical advice when symptoms arise. By identifying the factors that influence students’ adherence to these preventive measures, the study will highlight the challenges in promoting these practices and offer recommendations for improving adherence to healthy habits.

Additionally, this study has the potential to inform public health policy and student health services at the university. By understanding the level of awareness and the gaps in knowledge among students, university health officials can tailor interventions that directly address the specific needs and challenges faced by the student population. If students are better educated about the causes and preventive measures of PUD, the burden of the disease on campus health services may decrease, as fewer students may seek medical care for advanced or complicated ulcer cases that could have been prevented with earlier intervention.

The study’s findings can also contribute to the broader field of health education and promotion. Universities, as environments that foster learning and personal development, are ideal platforms for health education interventions. By focusing on students, this study underscores the importance of integrating health education into academic settings, ensuring that students not only excel in their academic pursuits but also in managing their health. This approach could be replicated in other universities and higher learning institutions across the country, creating a more widespread impact on public health.

Finally, the significance of this study lies in its potential to improve the long-term health outcomes of university students. Peptic ulcers, if left untreated or poorly managed, can lead to severe complications such as bleeding, perforation, and even cancer. By enhancing students’ understanding of the disease and promoting preventive practices, this study will contribute to the overall well-being of the student population at Alvan Ikoku Federal University, reducing the risk of developing chronic gastrointestinal problems in the future. Moreover, healthier students are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, leading to a more productive and well-rounded campus environment.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines the knowledge of causes and preventive measures of pyruvic ulcer Among Alvan Ikoku federal University students Owerri imo State

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Knowledge: Knowledge refers to the information, awareness, or understanding acquired through experience or education. It encompasses facts, information, and skills gained over time, often through learning or study. In the context of health, knowledge refers to one’s understanding of health-related topics, such as the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for specific diseases.
2. Causes: Causes refer to the factors or conditions that contribute to the onset or development of a disease or condition. In a medical context, the causes are the underlying factors that trigger or contribute to the occurrence of a particular health issue. For example, the causes of peptic ulcers include factors likeHelicobacter pylori infection, long-term use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), stress, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
3. Preventive Measures: Preventive measures are actions or strategies implemented to reduce the risk or occurrence of a disease or health problem. These measures aim to stop the disease before it starts or minimize its severity if it does occur. In the case of peptic ulcers, preventive measures include avoiding known risk factors (such as excessive NSAID use), eating regular, balanced meals, managing stress, limiting alcohol intake, and not smoking.
4. Pyruvic Ulcer: It seems there may be a typo or misunderstanding with the term “pyruvic ulcer.”Peptic ulcer is the correct term you’re likely referring to. A peptic ulcer is a sore or lesion that forms on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to the action of stomach acid. The two most common types are gastric ulcers (in the stomach) and duodenal ulcers (in the first part of the small intestine). The causes of peptic ulcers include Helicobacter pyloriinfection, the use of NSAIDs, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking.

Project – Knowledge of causes and preventive measures of pyruvic ulcer Among Alvan Ikoku Federal University students Owerri imo State