Abstract

LACK OF AWARENESS OF SELF-MEDICATION LEADING TO GASTROINTESTINAL ULCER IN MANSEHRA CITY

*Dr. Samiyah Tasleem

Abstract

This paper covers the aspect of introduction of gastric ulceration along with its onset due to self-medication and causative drugs as well. The incidences of gastric ulcers is noticed to be increased when rate of selfmedication increases especially of NSAIDs for pain relief purposes. The unprotected medications are usually suggested by older or well educated member of the family, especially for analgesia purposes. The prevalence of self-medication and its bad outcomes is common problem in developing countries. The gastrointestinal ulcers include stomach, lower esophagus, and ulcer of small intestines. There are several causative agents of gastric ulceration that includes inflammation due to bacteria H. pylori or denaturation of gastric mucosa caused by stomach acids. Among self-medication, the rate of analgesics is at peak. Gastric is main target of NSAID toxicity. The paper includes the mechanism of ulcer formation due to administration of unnecessary NSAIDs. It is concluded that more than half of the patients found in lady reading hospital Mansehra in gastroenterology and hepatology department have developed gastric ulceration due to selfmedication of NSAIDs particularly aspirin due to its high availability, efficacy and also its cost effectiveness. This research study is conducted to estimate the extent of lack of awareness of self-medication leading to gastric diseases and specially ulceration. This research study is conducted at Lady Reading hospital Mansehra in departments of gastroenterology and hepatology. The objective of this research study is to estimate the prevalence of self-medication in Khyber pakhtunkhwa particularly in Mansehra region. So, this research may persuade the other researchers to take action to prevent the self-medication. Interview based data collection system is used from hospital. Proper questionnaire is prepared to conduct interview and collect data at interview spot. The report of this research shows that prevalence of stomach ulcer is high among all gastric ulcers. Most affected population is old age with more than 10 years.

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