Frequency and Pattern of Peptic Ulcer Disease among Patients Admitted to the Internal Medicine Department of Ibn Sina Emergency Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan: A Descriptive Case-Series Study

Abstract

Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains an important gastrointestinal disorder and may result in serious complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, and penetration if not diagnosed and treated appropriately. Helicobacter pylori infection and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the major recognized risk factors. However, local data regarding the frequency and clinical pattern of PUD in Afghanistan remain limited.

Objective: To determine the frequency and pattern of peptic ulcer disease among patients admitted to the Internal Medicine Department of Ibn Sina Emergency Hospital during 1404 Solar Hijri year.

Methods: A descriptive case-series study was conducted using medical records of patients admitted to the Internal Medicine Department of Ibn Sina Emergency Hospital during 1404. Among 2,795 admitted patients, 226 had gastrointestinal tract diseases, and 58 patients had PUD confirmed by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. A universal sampling method was used, and all eligible patients with confirmed PUD were included. Data regarding age, sex, residence, literacy, ulcer location, possible risk factors, complications, and treatment were collected from patient records and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results were presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Of the 58 patients with endoscopically confirmed PUD, 38 (65.6%) were male and 20 (34.4%) were female. The largest proportion of patients was in the 54–79-year age group, accounting for 65.52% of cases, followed by 41–53 years (25.86%) and 30–40 years (8.62%). Duodenal ulcers accounted for approximately 56.25% of cases, while gastric ulcers accounted for 43.75%. Among the reported risk factors, H. pylori infection was the most frequent (35%), followed by NSAID use (20%). Other reported factors included other medications, chemical agents, psychological factors, poisoning, and cigarette smoking. Regarding complications, gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, and ulcer penetration were reported among the patients. Pantoprazole and omeprazole were the most frequently used proton pump inhibitors, each accounting for 31.25% of prescriptions.

Conclusion: In this hospital-based study, PUD was more frequent among males and older adults, particularly those aged 54–79 years. H. pylori infection and NSAID use were the most commonly reported associated factors. Strengthening early diagnosis, endoscopic services, appropriate detection and treatment of H. pylori, rational NSAID use, and patient education may help reduce complications related to PUD in Afghanistan.