SCREENING OF BACTERIURIA IN ASYMPTOMATIC UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF SARHAD INSTITUTE OF ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCES, PESHAWAR

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections worldwideand often caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, and Enterobacter species. They present a significant health burden, ranging from mild cystitis to severe pyelonephritis, and are complicated by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance due to the widespread and inappropriate use of antibiotics. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sarhad Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Peshawar, from April to July 2025. A total of 52 undergraduate students, selected through convenience sampling were enrolled. Midstream urine samples were collected and urine routine examination was done at lab of Sarhad Institute of Allied Health Sciences. Those samples which were positive for bacteria are then cultured on CLED and MacConkey agar for the isolation and identification of uropathogens using standard biochemical tests and Gram staining.Out of 52 enrolled students the male and female ratio was equal with the majority aged 18–22 years. Bacterial growth was detected in 4 (7.7%) urine samples and all of the positive samples belong to female participants. Our finding indicated that females having more chances of bacteriuria although they are asymptomatic as compared to male in our study population.

Keywords : Uropathogens; Prevalence; Asymptomatic Bacteriuria; Undergraduate Students.