REVIEW OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIORAL FACTORS IN PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE

Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and it has been associated with various etiological factors. Whereas nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori infection have taken prominent roles in recent discussions, many peptic ulcers remain idiopathic and this suggests that other important factors may play a role in their pathogenesis. Behavioral and social factors are known to cause and prevent the healing of PUD. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the influence of psychological and behavioral factors on the development of gastroduodenal ulcers and how they predominately affect the progression of ulcers. We found that psychological stress increases the incidence of peptic ulcer in many ways. Psychiatric conditions and personality disorders have an adverse effect on the integrity of the stomach and duodenum. Health risk behaviors such as cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, irregular meal times, and short sleep duration, impair mucosal defenses and increase acid secretion. The mechanisms in which psychological and behavioral factors interact with other organic elements are not well understood, and future research addressing these aspects will broaden our knowledge on the prevention and treatment of PUD.