Assessment of Patients’ Education and Lifestyle Factors in Ulcerative Colitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background:

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammation of the colon that can significantly affect daily life. Managing this condition requires medication as well as healthy habits like staying active, eating well, managing symptoms, and following treatment plans.

Objective:

This study explored what patients with ulcerative colitis know about their condition, manage their lifestyle, and how these relate to their personal and medical backgrounds.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 152 patients with ulcerative colitis, recruited through purposive sampling from a total population of 300 at a gastroenterology and hepatology teaching hospital. The required sample size was determined using power analysis. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Inferential statistics were used to examine associations between patient characteristics and outcomes. The analysis was conducted using t-test, ANOVA (F-test), independent, and SPSS version 24.

Results:

Participants averaged 41 years old, mostly female, and lived in urban or suburban areas. Nearly half had been hospitalized, mainly due to bleeding, and 27.6% had surgery related to their condition. Most patients showed poor knowledge of ulcerative colitis (96%), low physical activity (99%), and unhealthy lifestyle habits (79%). Medication adherence was poor in nearly 60%. Occupation and age were linked to knowledge and lifestyle, while economic status affected medication adherence. Better knowledge was associated with healthier habits and better treatment adherence. Specifically, knowledge was significantly correlated with medication adherence (p = 0.006), physical activity (p = 0.006), diet management (p = 0.001), and psychosocial factors (p = 0.028). Knowledge was not significantly correlated with symptom management (p = 0.106) or overall healthy lifestyle (p = 0.995).”

Conclusion:

Patients with ulcerative colitis often have limited knowledge and face challenges with lifestyle and medication adherence. Providing tailored education and support from healthcare providers can enhance disease understanding, improve self-management, and promote a healthy lifestyle.