NÍVEL DE CONHECIMENTO SOBRE INTOLERÂNCIA À LACTOSE NA COMUNIDADE ACADÊMICA DA UNIVERSIDADE PARANAENSE DE CASCAVEL – PR

Abstract

Introduction: Lactose is a disaccharide composed of D-galactose and D-glucose, present in milk. In some individuals, its digestion is ineffective, causing gastrointestinal disorders. Justification: These cases occur due to poor absorption of lactose, caused by a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which does not hydrolyze the disaccharide. This leads to the accumulation of carbohydrates, favoring intestinal fermentation and causing classic symptoms. Objective: To evaluate data from students at Universidade Paranaense to analyze the population's understanding of the disease and how patients mention care in treatment. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional and original study, which was mediated through responses to the online questionnaire answered by students who agreed to participate in the research after accepting the TCLE. Results: Information regarding knowledge of the diagnosis, eating habits, and some personal data were collected to collaborate with the study of lactose intolerance. There were 407 students participating, 75.4% of whom were women, and the most significant age group was 21-30 years. The frequency of lactose intolerance among the participants was 13.5%, and 36.9% did not know whether they had this condition. Among the confirmed participants, the majority of the diagnosis was made by laboratory lactose intolerance testing. Conclusion: After analyzing the results, a portion of the sample did not have a diagnosis even though they presented symptoms. This reveals the need to encourage the investigation of the pathology in search of a diagnosis and correct treatment.