Evaluating Lifestyle and Educational Factors Influencing Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Helicobacter pylori ‐Induced Gastric Ulcer: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori )‐induced gastric ulcer is a public health challenge in Pakistan. The current study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding H. pylori ‐induced gastric ulcers among the general Pakistani population. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan's second‐largest city, involving 385 participants from the general population selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via interview‐administered questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, χ 2 tests, and binary logistic regression, were performed using SPSS version 25. Results Among the participants, 51.4% were male and 48.6% female, primarily 54.1% were aged 18–24 with 57.4% holding bachelor's degrees. In general Pakistani population majority have moderate knowledge of H. pylori ‐induced gastric ulcers, with 49.1% having heard of the condition and many were unsure about its symptoms and transmission. Regarding attitude, 86.8% recognized it as a serious health issue, and only 40.0% believed they could be infected. Preventive practices such as regular hand washing (52.2%) and proper food hygiene (43.8%) were common, but lifestyle factors like smoking and diet affected knowledge and attitudes significantly. Regression analysis highlighted that individuals aged 18–24 (odds ratio (OR) = 2.592, p = 0.014) and students (adjusted odds ratio (ORa) = 20.849, p < 0.001) showed higher knowledge, while low education (ORa = 0.151, p = 0.004), low income (ORa = 0.230, p = 0.001), and smoking (ORa = 0.379, p = 0.026) were associated with poorer attitudes. Students (ORa = 0.130, p = 0.005), and unemployment (ORa = 0.173, p = 0.013) were linked to poorer practices. Conclusion The results of the current study highlight significant knowledge, attitude, and practice gaps regarding H. pylori ‐induced gastric ulcers in the general Pakistani population. Targeted educational interventions are important to address misconceptions, promote healthy behaviors, and improve management strategies for H. pylori ‐induced gastric ulcers in Pakistan.