Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of peptic ulcers among Saudi medical students and identify relevant risk factors for the condition.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2023 using an online survey to measure the prevalence of peptic ulcers among the selected medical students in Saudi. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on the medical students’ demographics, stress faced during their studies, and peptic ulcer disease symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures.
Results: The study covered 986 medical students from various regions of Saudi Arabia, excluding those who declined participation. Of the participants, 66.9% were females, 51.1% were aged 21-23 years, and 24.2% were studying in fourth year. In terms of peptic ulcer diagnoses, 86.1% had never been diagnosed, and 75.4% were unaware of family history. The most commonly reported symptom was abdominal pain (36.5%). In terms of stress, 30% experienced frequent academic-related stress, where most participants’ coping mechanisms referred to socializing (44.4%) and considered examinations as their stressors (69%). Finally, the results also showed that 67.8% found preventing peptic ulcers very important, and 86.1% were interested in information on prevention. Among these, 61.4% preferred online resources.
Conclusion: The study revealed potential gender disparities in peptic ulcer prevalence. It highlighted the impact of advancing age and academic year on susceptibility to peptic ulcers and emphasized the need for preventive measures and stress management throughout medical education.
Key words: Peptic ulcer, stress, medical students, Saudi Arabia, risk factors.
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