Evaluation of pharmacological treatment and outcome of peptic ulcer in Iraqi patients

Background: Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is characterized by a disruption of mucosal integrity of stomach, duodenum or both, caused by local inflammation, which leads to well defined mucosal defect. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate treatment of PUD and outcome in Iraqi patients, whether controlled or uncontrolled in correlation with treatment. Methodology: A total of 520 patients were enrolled from several hospitals in Baghdad. Results: Peptic ulcers were most common in patients over 60yrs of age (50%), followed by patients between 40-59yrs of age (27%), then patients between 18-39 years of age (23%). Moreover, PU is predominant in males (73%) of total patients. 65% of patients in study were smokers. H. pylori was identified as the causative agent in approximately 15% of cases. Analysis of treatment practices in Iraqi hospitals revealed that 61% of patients received proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), 24% were treated with H2-receptor antagonists, and only 15% were administered a targeted anti-H. pylori regimen. 69% of patients were controlled in correlation with treatment schedule. Conclusion: Elderly individuals are at higher risk for development of PU. Smoking is a significant risk factor since it stimulates basal acid output.