THE IMPACT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS ON GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH: A FOCUS ON GASTRITIS
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Keywords
Psychological stress, Gut-Brain Axis, Gastritis, Perceived Stress, Gastrointestinal Health
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychological stress and symptoms of gastritis among university students in Peshawar.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 300 undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18–30 years. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and a gastrointestinal symptom questionnaire were used to gather data via online surveys. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation, were performed using SPSS v20.
Results: The findings revealed that 61.07% of participants experienced high psychological stress. GI symptoms such as stomach complaints exacerbated by stress (18.85%) and frequent upset stomach (13.52%) were prevalent. Pearson's r indicated moderate correlations between stress indicators especially feelings of nervousness and loss of control and gastric symptoms.
Conclusion: Psychological stress significantly correlates with gastritis symptoms among students. Interventions targeting stress management may reduce the incidence of gastritis and improve gastrointestinal and mental well-being.
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Malka I Saba
MBBS Students, Kabir Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
Basit Ahmad Khan
MBBS Students, Kabir Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
Ammara Islam
MBBS Students, Kabir Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
Saba Zahid
MBBS Students, Kabir Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan