Abstract: Background: Hernia is a protrusion of any viscous from its proper cavity. Inguinal hernias being more frequent. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence and risk factors of inguinal hernia. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence and risk factors of inguinal hernia.
Material and methods: The present study was carried out among 320 adults who had come to the surgery outpatient department for inguinal hernia repair or recurrence over the period of 2 years. The demographic details were taken by means of a questionnaire. A thorough clinical examination was performed by the surgeon. Details of the hernia were also noted. Scarring at the site was taken as recurrence of hernia. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21.0 statistical software (SPSS, Chicago, IL).
Results: In the present study total patients were 320. Maximum patients 36.56% were of age group 31-40yrs and minimum (4.68%) were of age group 20-30yrs. Primary hernia was 76.56% and recurrent hernia was 23.43%. Period of swelling was less than one year for majority (56.25%) of the patients, while the least of them had swelling for more than 2 years (10.93%). The most common side where the hernia was observed was on the right side (46.87%), followed by the left side (31.25%). 21.87% patients had inguinal hernia on both the sides (bilateral). The most common cause for the presence of hernia was lifting heavy objects (44.37%).
Conclusion: This study concluded that maximum patients were of age group 31-40yrs and minimum were of age group 20-30yrs. Primary hernia was more. Period of swelling was less than one year for majority of the patients. The most common side where the hernia was observed was on the right side. The most common cause for the presence of hernia was lifting heavy objects.