Awareness regarding Cause, Symptoms and Treatment Options for Acute Appendicitis and Cholecystitis among Patients Attending GMC Anantnag

Background: Acute Appendicitis and Cholecystitis are the most common causes of acute abdomen which require emergency surgical intervention. This study was undertaken with the objective to assess the awareness regarding causes, symptoms and treatment options for acute appendicitis and cholecystitis among patients attending GMC Anantnag. Material and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted between May-September 2021 among OPD patients in GMC Anantnag selected by random sampling technique. Information regarding their socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding causes, symptoms and treatment options for acute appendicitis and cholecystitis were obtained using a self-administered, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using epi info v7 software using appropriate statistical tests. Results: In the present study 35% (140) of the patients fall were below 40 years of age while 65% (260) were above 40 years. 54% (216) of patients were male and 46% (184) were female. In the present study, almost half of the participants knew while half of participants didn’t know about the causes, three fourth knew while one fourth didn’t know about any symptom ,almost three fifth knew while two fifth participants didn’t know about any treatment options of Appendicitis. Similarly, almost three fourth participants while one fouth didn’t know about causes, symptoms and treatment options of Cholecystitis. Conclusion: Clear understanding of causes, symptoms and treatment options for acute appendicitis and cholecystitis helps in early recognition and prevention of complications.