Factors Associated with Gastric Disease Among Students of Hawassa University: The Case of College of Agriculture Students

摘要

Gastritis affect a person in any sex, age, race and living status even if it is common among adolescent. Unless treated promptly and completely, it can continue to cause problems throughout the person's life. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of gastritis and assessed associated factors in Hawassa University of College of Agriculture. Cross-sectional study design was used and 174 regular students was taken using questionnaire. Then data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics like chi-square and logistic regression model with help of SPSS. The result of the study indicated that the prevalence of gastritis was 41.4. Problem of anxiety/stress, use of hot drinks like coffee, tea etc. and frequent use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen etc. had statistically significant association with gastritis. This happens due to the fact that anti-inflammatory drugs can result in infection with the bacteria, Helicobacter pylori. Infection with Helicobacter pylori (HP) can usually cause chronic gastritis. Over use of hot drinks and stress/anxiety had also similar effect on gastritis. Thus, the researcher recommends the university and other stakeholders to minimize the incidence through awareness creation about the causes of gastritis.