Chapter – I
1.1Introduction :
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause symptoms like stomach
pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. It can be caused by various factors, including
infections (like H. pylori bacteria), excessive alcohol consumption, stress, certain medications
(like NSAIDs), or autoimmune conditions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines gastritis as an inflammation of the stomach
lining, which can be caused by a variety of factors including infection, alcohol use, certain
medications, and other irritants. The condition can be acute or chronic and may result in
symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a feeling of fullness or indigestion.
In their descriptions, the WHO emphasizes that gastritis is a significant global health issue,
often linked to Helicobacter pylori infection, which is a major contributor to chronic
gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. They also highlight the role of lifestyle factors, such as diet
and alcohol use, in the prevalence of the condition.
Management, according to WHO guidelines, typically involves:
Eradication of H. pylori infection with appropriate antibiotic treatment
Reduction of gastric acid secretion using medications like proton pump inhibitors
(PPIs) or H2 blockers
Dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding irritants (e.g., alcohol, spicy
foods) and managing stress.
There are two main types:
1. Acute gastritis: This occurs suddenly and may cause severe symptoms, often
triggered by something like a bacterial infection or alcohol use.
2. Chronic gastritis: This develops slowly over time and can lead to more serious
complications if left untreated.
1.2 Background and Significance of the Study
The background and significance of studying gastritis are important in understanding its
global prevalence, impact on public health, and the need for effective management strategies.
Here's an overview:
Background of Gastritis:
Gastritis is a common gastrointestinal condition characterized by inflammation of the
stomach lining. The causes of gastritis can vary widely, ranging from infection with
Helicobacter pylori (a bacterium responsible for many cases), to the overuse of non-
steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and
even autoimmune responses.
Historically, H. pylori infection has been a leading cause of chronic gastritis and is closely
associated with the development of peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. Over time, advances in
diagnostic methods, including endoscopy and breath tests, have improved the ability to
identify and treat gastritis, particularly chronic forms. Despite this, gastritis remains a
common and often underdiagnosed condition worldwide.
Gastritis can occur in acute or chronic forms, with acute gastritis being more transient and
often linked to infections or irritants. Chronic gastritis, on the other hand, can persist for years
and, if untreated, may lead to complications such as ulceration, gastric bleeding, or even
gastric cancer. This makes early diagnosis and management crucial.
Significance of the Study:
1. Prevalence: Gastritis is a major cause of gastrointestinal discomfort, with a
significant number of individuals experiencing symptoms worldwide. In some
regions, especially where H. pylori is endemic, gastritis and its complications are a
major health concern. Understanding the full scope of the disease and its underlying
causes is essential for public health.
2. Health Implications: Chronic gastritis, particularly due to H. pylori, can lead to
serious conditions like peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and, in some cases,
gastric cancer. Gastritis, if left untreated, can significantly affect quality of life and
lead to long-term health complications, making it important to identify and treat early.
3. Economic Burden: The medical costs related to treating complications of gastritis,
including hospitalizations for ulcers or bleeding, are substantial. A deeper
understanding of the condition could help reduce healthcare costs through early
detection and appropriate treatment strategies, including the use of proton pump
inhibitors (PPIs) and antibiotics for H. pylori eradication.
4. Global Health Strategy: The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted
the importance of addressing gastritis, particularly through H. pylori eradication
programs and public health initiatives that focus on improving diet, reducing alcohol
consumption, and managing stress. The significance of such research extends to
identifying at-risk populations and ensuring equitable access to treatments.
5. Advances in Treatment: Studies on the pathophysiology of gastritis have led to the
development of more effective treatments, from antibiotics for bacterial infections to
therapies that reduce stomach acid production. Investigating the disease's molecular
mechanisms, especially regarding autoimmune gastritis and the role of inflammatory
cytokines, remains crucial for refining therapeutic approaches.
6. Preventive Measures: The study of gastritis is essential for developing better
preventive strategies, such as vaccines against H. pylori, and improving public
awareness regarding the risks associated with NSAIDs, alcohol, and poor dietary
habits. Public health education campaigns could significantly reduce the incidence of
gastritis and its complications.
1.3 Research Question
What are the existing knowledge and practice regarding Gastritis.
1.4 Objectives of the study
1.4.1 General objective To assess the knowledge and practice about Gastritis.
1.4.2 Specific objective
To find out the socio-demographic characteristics
To assess the knowledge about gastritis
To determine the knowledge about carbohydrate, fat, protein
To identify the benefit of food habits
To determine the practice of balance diet
1.5 Variables of the study
1.5.1 Dependent variables
Knowledge about gastritis.
Practice regarding balance diet.
1.5.2 Independent variables
1. Socio-demographic variables:
Age
Sex
Religion
Education
. 2. Socio-economic variables:
Occupation
Monthly income etc
1.6 Conceptual Framework
