A Yangon doctor has raised the possibility that Myanmar’s spicy curry-based diet could be contributing to an apparent increase in the incidence of the gastric disease colitis.
Reporting a rise in the painful disease, which leads to rectal bleeding, bloating and diarrhea gastroenterologists are planning a nationwide survey to determine the spread. It is believed to be particularly prolific in rural areas.
Dr Khin San Aye from Thingangyun Sanpya General Hospital told the Myanmar Times that 30 per cent of patients there had the disease. “Most patients come from Ayeyarwady Region,” she said. “They eat a lot of curry sauce and pickled fish.”
Other potential causes include eating too much saturated fat, irregular meals and general poor health, she said.
The disease can be caused by infections – meaning poor hygiene could also be to blame.
“Colitis is very dangerous, but early treatment can be successful,” said Dr Khin San Aye. “However, most patients live in rural areas, and come to hospital very late, after the disease has taken hold. Some have self-medicated with antibiotics, and may have rendered the disease drug-resistant.”
