Abstract:

Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) develops when the protective mechanisms of the gastrointestinal mucosa, such as mucus and bicarbonate secretion, are overwhelmed by the damaging effects of gastric acid and pepsin resulting in the damage of lining epithelium and mucosal layer. Peptic ulcers occur mainly in the stomach referred to as gastric ulcer or in duodenum as proximal duodenal ulcer. There are several causes of PUD. Most cases of peptic ulcer disease are associated with H. pylori infection and/or the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Higher peptic ulcer disease incidence has been found to be associated with male sex, smoking, and chronic medical conditions.

Methodology: This was a school based cross sectional study that was conducted at Catholic University of Health and Allied Science (CUHAS) in Mwanza city. 345 university students from diploma students and undergraduates were included in the study. Social - demographic data and other information will obtained by using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire.

Results: The results turned out to be positive the response was good and awareness was created among patients who took the survey. Around 90% of the college students are aware of peptic ulcer disease and some of the common symptoms and around 70% are aware of the common mentioned risk factors of peptic ulcer disease.

Conclusions: Many students were aware of the symptoms of peptic ulcer but still further awareness must be spread, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Peptic ulcer could be aggravated by certain foods and also everyone must be hygienic to prevent several diseases from all others.