Study on aphthous ulcers and stress in college students.

| Posted in: Health Sciences Science Journals

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A study on aphthous ulcer and its association with stress among college students
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Rukzana Bisar, Dhanya Dharman, Deepa Manohar, Shaiju S. Daran, Nefcy Navas and Ashima Basheer


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A study on aphthous ulcer and its association with stress among college students

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20216-20623

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Aphthous ulcers, also known as recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), are prevalent inflammatory lesions found in the oral mucosa, affecting approximately 25% of the global population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of aphthous ulcers among college students and investigate their association with stress levels. Previous studies have indicated that stress and anxiety may trigger the onset and recurrence of these ulcers, contributing substantially to morbidity among individuals, especially dental and medical students who often experience high stress levels.

The Prevalence of Aphthous Ulcers

The study surveyed 75 pharmacy students aged 18 to 25 to estimate the prevalence of aphthous ulcers. Out of the participants, 66 reported experiencing these ulcers. Findings revealed that a significant portion of students suffered from ulcers and associated symptoms. Most participants experienced a single ulcer during each episode, primarily located on the cheeks, with episodes lasting from 3 to 5 days. The data illustrated that a connection exists between higher levels of stress and increased occurrences of aphthous ulcers among pharmacy students.

Stress as a Contributing Factor

The research highlighted perceived stress as a major factor influencing the prevalence of aphthous ulcers in the student population studied. Among those experiencing ulcers, a notable percentage attributed their stress mainly to exam pressures. Other stressors included dietary changes and personal losses. The study demonstrated a significant correlation between self-reported stress levels and the occurrence of ulcers, reinforcing the idea that mental stress can influence immune regulatory activities, potentially precipitating these lesions.

Impact of Education and Stress Management

The findings suggested that pharmacy students endure more stress due to the demanding nature of their curriculum, resulting in a higher prevalence of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. This stress likely exacerbates symptoms and increases the frequency of ulcerations. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue, advocating for improved stress management strategies within educational settings. Recommendations include encouraging better oral hygiene and reducing academic stress through supportive measures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study confirmed a high prevalence of aphthous ulcers among pharmacy students and established a significant association with perceived stress levels. Stress management interventions are critical to alleviate the burden of aphthous ulcers among students, which not only reduces discomfort but may also enhance academic performance. The research underscores the need for further investigations into effective stress reduction strategies to improve student well-being and minimize the occurrence of oral health issues such as RAS.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What are aphthous ulcers and who do they primarily affect?

Aphthous ulcers, or recurrent aphthous stomatitis, are inflammatory lesions of the oral mucosa. They are common, affecting around 25% of the population, particularly among college students who experience higher stress levels.

What was the purpose of the study conducted on college students?

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of aphthous ulcers among college students and assess their association with stress levels, using a questionnaire to gather data on ulcer experiences and perceived stress.

How were the data for the study collected?

Data were collected through a cross-sectional questionnaire survey distributed to 75 pharmacy students, where 66 completed the questionnaire regarding ulcer experiences and perceived stress.

What are the common symptoms and duration of aphthous ulcers?

Participants reported experiencing slight to moderate pain, with the ulcers generally lasting for 3-5 days. Most had single ulcers in episodes, commonly occurring in the cheeks, lips, and gums.

What factors were identified as causes of stress among students?

Exam pressure was reported as a primary stressor, alongside changes in diet, loss of loved ones, and multiple other stressors contributing to their experiences of aphthous ulcers.

What conclusions were drawn regarding stress and aphthous ulcers?

The study concluded that high self-reported stress levels were significantly associated with the prevalence of aphthous ulcers among pharmacy students, highlighting a need for stress-reduction interventions.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Study on aphthous ulcers and stress in college students.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Ulcer:
Ulcers refer to multiple instances of ulcerative lesions. The study examines recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), a common condition involving multiple oral ulcers. Understanding the distribution of these ulcers helps in correlating the psychological stress experienced by students, thereby emphasizing their impact on health and quality of life.

2) Study (Studying):
The study aims to explore the prevalence of aphthous ulcers among college students and their association with stress levels. Conducting this research enables the identification of potential mental health concerns among medical students. It serves as a foundation for further investigations into stress management interventions in academic settings.

3) Science (Scientific):
The term 'sciences' encompasses various fields of study, including biology, medicine, and psychology. This study is rooted in pharmaceutical sciences, aiming to assess the relationship between oral health conditions and psychological stress, thus bridging gaps between mental and physical health sciences for comprehensive understanding.

4) India:
India is the geographical context of the study, which sheds light on health issues specific to the region's college students. Given the diverse population and varying stressors faced in educational settings, the findings may have implications for health policies and student well-being initiatives across the country.

5) Kerala:
Kerala, a state in India, is the location where the study was conducted among pharmacy students. The cultural and educational environment in Kerala poses unique stressors on students, influencing their health conditions. Results from this study may contribute to local health awareness and stress management strategies.

6) Indian:
The term 'Indian' reflects the demographic of the study's participants, asserting that the findings are situated within the cultural context of India. This is significant for interpreting stress and health behaviors, influences on healthcare access, and attitudes toward healthcare practices within this specific population.

7) Food:
Food is a vital aspect that can influence health conditions, including aphthous ulcers. The study explores dietary habits among students, as changes in food intake can be stressors. Understanding these connections is essential for holistic treatment approaches and dietary recommendations for individuals suffering from ulcers.

8) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the physical and emotional pain experienced by individuals with aphthous ulcers. In this context, the study highlights the impact of recurrent ulcers on students' quality of life, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and management strategies to alleviate their suffering in stressful academic environments.

9) Allergy:
Allergies are immune responses that can contribute to the development of conditions like aphthous ulcers. The study suggests investigating potential allergic contributions to inflammation, thus expanding the scope of management strategies for affected students. Identifying allergens may help in targeted preventive measures.

10) Anxiety:
Anxiety, a psychological state characterized by excessive worry, may influence the onset of aphthous ulcers. The study aims to highlight the correlation between stress, anxiety levels, and the prevalence of ulcers among students, thus placing emphasis on the importance of mental health support in educational institutions.

11) Surface:
The term 'surface' pertains to the areas of the mouth affected by aphthous ulcers, specifically those with non-keratinized mucosa. Understanding the locations where ulcers commonly occur helps in identifying patients at risk and underscores the significance of oral health education in settings with high stress.

12) Family:
Family support systems can play a crucial role in mitigating stress and health issues like aphthous ulcers. The study may examine trends relating family history to the prevalence and severity of ulcers, revealing insights into genetic predispositions and family influences on students' well-being.

13) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology, the study of drug interactions and effects, is vital for understanding treatment options for aphthous ulcers. The study's setting in a pharmacy school shines a light on the role that pharmacological knowledge plays in managing and preventing the recurrence of stress-related health conditions.

14) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response that contributes to the development of aphthous ulcers. The study aims to understand how psychological stress can exacerbate inflammation, providing insight into how managing stress may alleviate the condition. This highlights the need for interdisciplinary approaches to treatment.

15) Performance:
Performance refers to students' academic and health outcomes affected by stress and health challenges such as aphthous ulcers. This study suggests that interventions to reduce stress can improve not only health but also academic performance, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being.

16) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study evaluates the findings in a broader context, addressing the implications of high prevalence rates of aphthous ulcers among pharmacy students. This part serves to analyze contributing factors and suggest areas for further research and practical interventions in stress management.

17) Knowledge:
Knowledge about the causes, prevalence, and management of aphthous ulcers among college students is essential for improving health outcomes. The study seeks to enhance understanding of the psychological and physiological interplay, which can lead to better education and strategies for self-care among affected populations.

18) Sindhura (Simdhura):
Sindhura appears to refer to an author or a researcher associated with relevant literature on the topic. The inclusion of various references aims to support the study's findings and integrate knowledge from previous research. Valuable insights from established authors establish a credible foundation for the current study.

19) Activity:
Activity, in this context, may relate to physiological and psychological functions impacted by stress and ulcers. The study's exploration of how stress affects immune activity further emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment, addressing both emotional and physical aspects of health.

20) Shirisha (Sirisa, Shirisa, Sirisha):
Sirisha likely refers to an author whose work is referenced in the study regarding stress and aphthous ulcers. Citing collaborative research strengthens the study's validity and acknowledges the contributions of various scholars in advancing knowledge concerning oral health and its psychological associations.

21) Species:
Species refers to different biological classifications, and in this context may relate to understanding various therapeutic approaches for ulcers. Studying multiple species may enhance the development of medications or therapies, leading to better management strategies for recurrent aphthous stomatitis among diverse populations.

22) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing and managing aphthous ulcers. The study encourages oral hygiene practices among affected students, recognizing that poor hygiene can exacerbate ulcer occurrences and lead to complications, thus emphasizing the importance of patient education in healthcare settings.

23) Shruti (Sruti):
Shruthi is likely a reference to an author or individual whose work has contributed to the understanding of aphthous ulcers and stress relationships. The study cites various experts to strengthen its findings, aiming for a comprehensive overview of the subject through diverse scholarly contributions.

24) Dhanya:
Dhanya appears to be a co-author or researcher cited in the study, contributing to its scholarship and findings. The collaborative nature of research ensures that multiple perspectives enrich the understanding of aphthous ulcers, stress, and their relationships within the context of pharmacy education.

25) Nature:
Nature encompasses the environmental and inherent characteristics influencing health outcomes. This study considers how the nature of stress in pharmacy students contributes to the high incidence of aphthous ulcers, hence advocating for recognition of both academic pressures and personal circumstances in healthcare discussions.

26) Lalla:
Lalla may refer to an author whose previous research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between psychological stress and recurrent ulcers. Citing established authors strengthens the study's foundation, ensuring that the current investigation is positioned within the broader context of existing knowledge.

27) Patil:
Patil likely refers to an author or researcher whose work has explored similar themes related to ulcers and stress. Recognizing such contributions allows the study to build on established findings and offers credibility, promoting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding health issues.

28) Fever:
Fever can be a symptom associated with aphthous ulcers, sometimes indicating underlying conditions or infections that may co-occur. The study notes instances of students reporting fever, highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluations of health issues that may compound the burden of ulcerative conditions.

29) Nava (Navan):
Nava could refer to a contributor or entity within the study's review process. The context isn't specified in the provided text, but acknowledging such contributions demonstrates the collaborative effort and intertwined nature of ongoing research in fields concerning health, stress, and education.

30) Fear:
Fear plays a significant role in exacerbating stress levels among students, potentially leading to health issues such as aphthous ulcers. The study emphasizes the impact of academic pressures, showcasing how psychological fear regarding performance can contribute to physical health consequences.

31) Ship:
Ship likely refers to an authoritative source or author within dental literature. The inclusion of diverse references enhances the credibility of the study, indicating an effort to ground findings in well-established scientific literature, emphasizing ongoing discourse in oral health research.

32) Pain:
Pain is a predominant symptom associated with aphthous ulcers that significantly affects students' quality of life. The study mentions varying degrees of pain experienced by participants, highlighting the urgent need for effective management strategies in educational institutions tailored to mitigate the discomfort associated with ulcers.

33) Male:
Male refers to one demographic aspect of the study’s participants. Understanding the gender distribution concerning aphthous ulcers helps in identifying trends and potential differences in health experiences, promoting the need for tailored health interventions that consider gender-specific factors.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Study on aphthous ulcers and stress in college students.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Associated conditions, Environmental factor, College student, Academic performance, Stress Level, Oral mucosa, Aphthous ulcer, Perceived stress, Genetic factor, Tobacco consumption, Dietary deficiencies, Pharmacy students, Healthcare professional, Questionnaire analysis, Self-medication practice, Recurrent aphthous stomatitis, Cross sectional questionnaire study, Salivary cortisol.

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