A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON PREVALENCE, RISK FACTORS, CLINICAL PRESENTATION AND MANAGEMENT OF HAEMORRHOIDS

Background: Haemorrhoids are among the most common benign anorectal disorders, typically resulting from the abnormal downward displacement of anal cushions. Characterized by symptoms such as rectal bleeding, prolapse, pain during defecation, and pruritus ani, they significantly affect quality of life. Despite their high prevalence, the true burden of the disease is difficult to estimate due to underreporting and social stigma, especially in developing countries like India. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated risk factors of haemorrhoids in patients admitted to a surgical unit in a tertiary care center. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Surgery at NIUM Hospital, affiliated with Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore. Data were collected from medical records of 157 patients diagnosed with haemorrhoids. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 10–80 years, while those with haemorrhoids secondary to anorectal tumors or under 10 years of age were excluded. Patient demographics, symptoms, dietary habits, BMI, and haemorrhoid grading were analyzed using standard statistical methods. Results: The study revealed a higher prevalence of haemorrhoids among males (66.87%) compared to females (33.13%). The most affected age group was 40–60 years. Key symptoms included passage of hard stools (91.71%), pain during defecation (68.78%), and rectal bleeding (62.42%). A majority of patients had mixed diets (89.81%), and most fell within a normal BMI range. External haemorrhoids were the most common type (38.85%), followed by interno-external (36.94%) and internal haemorrhoids (24.20%). Risk factors identified included chronic constipation, low fibre intake, spicy diet, inadequate hydration, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity. Conclusion: Haemorrhoids are prevalent in the adult population, particularly in middle-aged males, and are strongly associated with modifiable lifestyle factors such as poor diet and physical inactivity. Early identification of risk factors and promoting awareness regarding dietary changes, hydration, and regular physical activity can aid in prevention and reduce the disease burden.