Prevalence of Fissure-in-Ano among the Patients of Anorectal Complaints Visiting Nium Hospital

Abstract

Background and objective: Anal fissure is one of the most painful conditions among the anorectal disorders. In classical Unani literature, anal fissure is termed as shiqaq e miqad. It is a common anorectal condition, and in terms of prevalence it ranks third after chronic constipation and haemorrhoids but exact data on its prevalence is rare. Therefore, this study was designed to estimate the prevalence of anal fissure among the patients of anorectal complaints visiting NIUM Hospital. Materials and methods: Present study was a cross sectional study of 1 year duration conducted in the Hospital of National Institute of Unani Medicine between 2012 and 2013. A total of 416 patients with anorectal ailments were included; 317 males and 99 females. Diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical findings and anorectal examination, which includes inspection (visual examination of anus and surrounding area), digital examination and proctoscopy. Results: The present study revealed that out of 416 subjects, 65 (15.62%) were found to be suffering from anal fissure, out of them 48 were males and 17 were females. Out of those 65 patients, 5 were also found to be having haemorrhoids along with anal fissure. Constipation, low fibre diet and less physical activities are found to be significantly associated with anal fissures. Conclusion: Present study reveals that anal fissure is a common anorectal condition. Constipation and other life style factors (e.g. diet etc.) are the modifiable risk factors for the anal fissure. Health education should be provided to the patients to adopt certain lifestyle changes that can be beneficial to limit the progress of the disease.