EXPLORING THE PREVALENCE AND DEMOGRAPHICS OF LIVER CIRRHOSIS DIR L

Abstract

Background: Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive condition that significantly impacts global health, often coexisting with or mimicking gastrointestinal disorders such as functional dyspepsia. Its burden is increasing in both developing and developed regions, with multifactorial etiologies including viral infections, malnutrition, metabolic disorders, and post-surgical complications. Early identification through clinical and investigative profiling is crucial for improved prognosis and tailored patient care.

Objective: To determine the frequency and demographic distribution of liver cirrhosis among patients presenting with symptoms of functional dyspepsia and to evaluate associated clinical characteristics including body mass index (BMI), surgical history, and presence of cholelithiasis.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Regional Health Center Khall, Dir Lower, from March to August 2024. A total of 46 patients clinically and radiologically diagnosed with liver cirrhosis were enrolled. Data collection included detailed clinical assessments, liver function tests (LFTs), imaging studies (ultrasonography), and demographic parameters such as age, sex, BMI, symptom duration, prior surgical history, and gallstone presence. Patients were stratified by BMI and age groups, and statistical analysis was used to examine frequency distributions and associations.

Results: The most affected age group was 41–50 years (43.6%). Males constituted 53.9% and females 46.1%, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1. BMI analysis showed 30.3% underweight, 35.8% normal, 20.6% overweight, and 13.3% obese. Acute onset of symptoms (≤2 weeks) was reported in 61.2% of cases. History of prior surgery was noted in 35.8% of patients, while 37.6% had cholelithiasis.

Conclusion: Liver cirrhosis was frequently observed in middle-aged, underweight males with functional dyspepsia. Associations with prior surgical history and BMI highlight the need for individualized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for better outcomes.