A Prospective Cohort Study on Metamorphosis of Peptic Ulcer Dynamics: Insights into High Risk Paramedical Students Transformed Knowledge, Lifestyle and Symptoms Pattern

Abstract

Background: This study explores the epidemiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) among resident students in Komarapalayam, India, with the aim of increasing awareness, identifying influential lifestyle factors, and assessing intervention effectiveness. Methods: A comprehensive nine-month prospective cohort study involving 404 paramedical students aged 17-28 was rigorously conducted. Data collection included a meticulously validated questionnaire, high-risk subgroup identification, and the implementation of educational interventions. Statistical analyses maintained a significance threshold at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The study findings revealed a striking contrast. While the actual incidence of Peptic Ulcer Disease was lower than anticipated, the prevalence of prodromal symptoms was surprisingly high. This underscores the critical need for early symptom identification. Tailored educational interventions exhibited great promise in improving PUD comprehension. Lifestyle choices played a substantial role in susceptibility, with hostellers experiencing the highest PUD prevalence at 10.3%— the efficacy of symptom-based assessments extended beyond healthcare domains. Conclusion: This investigation underscores the urgency of early symptom recognition, personalized education, and proactive health-oriented choices to mitigate the onset of Peptic Ulcer Disease. It highlights the merit of symptom- based assessments and emphasizes the essential role of health education within tertiary institutions. This research catalyzes future initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of students in the context of Peptic Ulcer Disease.