EPIDEMIOLOGICAL INDICATORS OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS IN THE CITY OF SEMEY

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease with increasing global incidence and prevalence.
• Epidemiological data for UC in Kazakhstan, specifically the Semey region, are limited.
• Understanding regional UC trends is crucial for healthcare planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiological trends of ulcerative colitis in the Semey region, Kazakhstan.
• To analyze changes in UC prevalence, incidence, and patient characteristics over a decade (2014-2023).

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study analyzing 1,539 primary medical records from 2014-2023.
• Inclusion of inpatient, outpatient, and electronic medical records.
• Statistical analysis using Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (p<0.05).

Main Results:

• Average annual UC prevalence increased from 23.7 to 45.4 per 100,000 population (9.0% annual trend).
• UC cases peaked in the 31-40 and 51-60 age groups, with a moderate female predominance (54.9%-58.1%).
• Improved diagnosis led to a rise in Grade 1 activity (4.7% yearly increase).

Conclusions:

• The healthcare burden of UC in the Semey region is escalating due to rising incidence and better diagnostics.
• Epidemiological patterns align with international findings, highlighting the need for resource allocation.
• Further research is needed to verify potential increased mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic.