Incidence and risk factors associated with peptic ulcer in different cities of Punjab, Pakistan

Peptic ulcers are severe digestive tract mucosal lesions. Worldwide, peptic ulcer disease (PUD) increases medical costs and morbidity. PUD is rising in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Karachi due to lifestyle and changes in diet. PUD is linked to drug and alcohol use, smoking, lack of exercise, and emotional stress. Infection with Helicobacter pylori, lack of sleep, and obesity also raise ulcer risk. This study examined the lack of PUD research in three main cities of Punjab (Bahawalpur, Multan, and Lahore). These populations were studied for PUD incidence, complications, risk factors, correlations with other diseases, medications, and blood group linkages. Data was collected by a cross-sectional study from November 2022 to June 2023 on peptic ulcer symptoms in participants aged 11 and above. Questionnaires collected demographic, medical, lifestyle, and nutritional data. Heart rate, blood pressure, and H. pylori status were checked. SPSS 25.0 was used to analyze data. Out of 200 participants, 47.5% were men and 52.5% women. There is no correlation between age, gender, or peptic ulcer prevalence in men or women. The sample comprised more rural than urban individuals. Both men and women with peptic ulcers had an O+ blood group. Women had more fever and belly pain. This study shows the prevalence and risk factors of peptic ulcers in urban Pakistan, highlighting the need for prevention and treatment. These findings highlight PUD across genders and suggest future research should consider sample size and self-reporting.