Abstract
Background and aims: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-induced gastric ulcer is a public health challenge in Pakistan. The current study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding H. pylori-induced gastric ulcers among the general Pakistani population.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan's second-largest city, involving 385 participants from the general population selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via interview-administered questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, χ 2 tests, and binary logistic regression, were performed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Among the participants, 51.4% were male and 48.6% female, primarily 54.1% were aged 18-24 with 57.4% holding bachelor's degrees. In general Pakistani population majority have moderate knowledge of H. pylori-induced gastric ulcers, with 49.1% having heard of the condition and many were unsure about its symptoms and transmission. Regarding attitude, 86.8% recognized it as a serious health issue, and only 40.0% believed they could be infected. Preventive practices such as regular hand washing (52.2%) and proper food hygiene (43.8%) were common, but lifestyle factors like smoking and diet affected knowledge and attitudes significantly. Regression analysis highlighted that individuals aged 18-24 (odds ratio (OR) = 2.592, p = 0.014) and students (adjusted odds ratio (ORa) = 20.849, p < 0.001) showed higher knowledge, while low education (ORa = 0.151, p = 0.004), low income (ORa = 0.230, p = 0.001), and smoking (ORa = 0.379, p = 0.026) were associated with poorer attitudes. Students (ORa = 0.130, p = 0.005), and unemployment (ORa = 0.173, p = 0.013) were linked to poorer practices.
Conclusion: The results of the current study highlight significant knowledge, attitude, and practice gaps regarding H. pylori-induced gastric ulcers in the general Pakistani population. Targeted educational interventions are important to address misconceptions, promote healthy behaviors, and improve management strategies for H. pylori-induced gastric ulcers in Pakistan.