Peptic ulcer disease: a cross-sectional study of symptoms and risk factors among students at Jimma University, Ethiopia

Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD), which includes gastric and duodenal ulcers, is a common condition with symptoms including epigastric or abdominal pain. It is multifactorial, with physiological, demographic and environmental risk factors, some of which make it more prevalent in developing countries. Aims: This study aims to assess the symptoms of and risk factors for PUD among students at Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia. Methods: This institutional based cross-sectional study design used a self-administered questionnaire to collect data for analysis. This included logistic regression analysis, in which a p-value of <0.05 at 95% CI indicated statistical significance. Findings: Of the 240 respondents, 41.3% had symptoms indicative of PUD. Most students developed symptoms after enrolling at university and primarily managed them with medication. PUD-like symptoms were found to be associated with year of study, frequent Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs use, smoking, prolonged fasting and anxiety. Conclusions: PUD is highly prevalent in this setting. Therefore, the university may wish to raise awareness of PUD and aim to reduce anxiety among students.