Community Medicine Abstracts - College of Medicine and Health ...

Project No. 167 (D-2000/1)A Descriptive study of Peptic Ulcer Perforation During Ramadan from January1995 to September 2000 in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Layla Mohd Omran Taryam Omran, Noora Mubarak Jassim ThaniAl-Muraikhi, Moza Mohd Saeed Musallem H. Al-AmeriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To recognize the frequency of peptic ulcer perforation during the period ofRamadan. Starting from January 1995 to September 2000 in Al Ain Hospital.Methods The information gathered was based on a descriptive retrospective study,from patients’ medical records and the operation theater records in Al Ain Hospital(January 1995 to September 2000).Results Overall patients were 115 in the six years duration (69 months). Our studyshowed that there is an increase in the frequency of peptic ulcer perforation duringRamadan (five months) 39 (34%) compared to other months (64 months). Thepatients fall in the age group 30-39 years 48 (42%) and they were Bangladeshi,Indians then Pakistani 50 (43%), 24 (22%) and 20 (18%) respectively. Patientsusually present with sudden and severe pain. In our study 81 (46%) had no previoushistory of peptic ulcer disease. Family history and cigarette smoking contribute to thedevelopment of peptic ulcer disease 12 (10%) and 57 (50%) respectively.Conclusion Peptic ulcer perforation increases during Ramadan, especially among themiddle age, Indian subcontinent group. Previous history of peptic ulcer is alsosignificant. Family history, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption are consideredrisk factors. It is recommended to develop an educational program for the expatriatesto reduce the prevalence of peptic ulcer disease and thus perforations.