Community experience and awareness regarding foreign body aspiration in Asir region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a serious preventable pediatric health problem and one of the main causes of accidental death in children. Although unusual in adults, it is often overlooked as a cause of airway obstruction with serious consequences. This study assessed awareness and previous FBA experiences in the Asir community, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Using validated questionnaire, an annonymous online survey was conducted among 870 people aged 18 years and above. The questionnaire was used to collect data about the personal and sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents, as well as their experiences with FBA, and participants' knowledge and perceived seriousness of FBA. The level of knowledge was deemed good if the score ranged between 60% and 100%, and bad if the score fell below 60%The level of knowledge was deemed good if the score ranged between 60% and 100%, and bad if the score fell below 60%. The majority of the participants (79.7%) were females, 48.1% were aged 18 to 30 years, 72.9% had university degree, 30.6% were students, 26.9% worked in the educational sector, 43.6% reported monthly income of <5000 Saudi Riyals and 19.8% of them identified themselves as healthcarepractitioners. Although the community experience with FBA was considerably high (70.6%) among the study participants, their awareness levels about FBA were deficient. Only 24.7% of the respondents had good knowledge of FBA. Older age, being a health practitioner, and perceiving FBA as a serious incident were significantly associated with good knowledge (P < .001). The findings of this study indicate an urgent need to raise community awareness of FBA. To reduce FBA morbidity and mortality, health education efforts in community and healthcare settings are required to educate people about the seriousness and importance of early diagnosis and management of the condition.

Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus and Practices Regarding Lifestyle Factors and Diabetes Management in a General Adult Population of Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction: Many studies report a lack of public awareness of the risk factors and complications of Diabetes Mellitus. Adequate glycemic control is crucial in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes complications, and medication adherence is one of the key factors in achieving this goal. This study aimed to measure the knowledge about diabetes mellitus and practices regarding lifestyle factors and diabetes management in the study population in the Aseer region, of Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in Abha, a city in the Aseer region of Saudi Arabia. The general population of 18 years of age and above, who were residing in the study area during the period of study, ie, January 2023 to June 2023, were included. The questionnaire was distributed through social media and e-mail for data collection. The descriptive variables were presented using frequency, percentage, and graphs. Pearson's chi-square test was used at a 5% level of significance. Multivariate tests were applied to further explore the findings of univariate analysis. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: Out of the total 348 participants, a higher proportion was males (56.3%). About 78.7% of the participants were ever diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and 21.3% were never diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Nearly 31.6% knew that the major cause of diabetes mellitus was obesity and 31.3% knew that it was a hereditary disease. About 42.2% of respondents exercised regularly and 27.6% were smokers. Adherence to prescribed anti-diabetic medications was seen in 63.2% of the respondents. Self-alterations in the timing and dose of prescribed anti-diabetic drugs were seen in 36.5% and 34.8%, respectively. About 60.1% had a moderate level of self-rated knowledge about Diabetes Mellitus, and 27.6% and 12.4% had good and poor self-rated knowledge levels of Diabetes mellitus, respectively. On multivariate analysis, the age group 60-69 years had significant variations as compared to the other age groups on DM, bachelor's degree holders had significant variations as compared to other education variables, being married had significant differences as compared to those unmarried, those employed had significant variations as compared to the other occupation categories, and smokers had a significant impact on DM as compared to non-smokers. Conclusion: Findings indicated less number of respondents exercised regularly, low adherence to prescribed anti-diabetic medications and low levels of self-rated knowledge of diabetes mellitus. Enhancing the patients' knowledge of diabetes mellitus and improving their self-management and adherence to its medications is necessary through public health education.

Exploring the self-efficacy of patients with diabetes: its role as a predictor of diabetes management and well-being.

Background: Self-efficacy is a popular psychological concept that refers to an individual's perception or belief in his ability to perform specific actions. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of self-efficacy, measured using the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease 6-Item Scale (SEM6S) questionnaire, for diabetes management and overall well-being in patients with diabetes. Subject and methods: An anonymous online cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the self-efficacy of diabetic patients in the Asser region of Saudi Arabia. The participants were requested to upload their most recent glycated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) measurements taken in the last three months, which helped in the accurate categorization of their diabetes as either controlled or uncontrolled. We used the valid Arabic version of the SEM6S and WHO-5 well-being questionnaires to assess patient self-efficacy and well-being. Results: A cohort of 342 patients was enrolled in the study, 67.25% were married, their mean age was 43.17 ± 17.61 years, and 52.69% had university-level or higher education. Among the participants, 46.0% exhibited well-being, while 24.9% reported poor well-being, including 9.4% who were identified as experiencing depression. The mean scores of self-efficacy and well-being were significantly higher among those with controlled diabetes versus uncontrolled diabetes (40.86 ± 13.26 vs. 36.48 ± 13.26) and (67.35 ± 21.22 vs. 60.93 ± 25.05), respectively. The predictors of glycemic control were self-efficacy [Odds ratio (OR)=1.03 (95%CI, 1.01-1.06, P=0.002], having other chronic diseases [OR=3.25 (95%CI), P<0.001], having type 1 diabetes [OR=7.16, 95%CI, P=0.005], being Saudi [OR=7.67, (95%CI, P=0.027], working in a public sector [OR=0.15, (95%CI, 0.05-0.44), P=0.005], being unemployed [OR=0.19, (95%CI, 0.06-0.59), P=0.005], being a smoker [OR=0.44, 95%CI, 0.19-0.98, P=0.048], and duration of diabetes between 6-10 years [OR= 0.33, 95%CI, 0.11-0.95), P=0.043] or more than 10 years OR=0.32, 95%CI, 0.12-0.86), P=0.026]. The main determinants of well-being were having self-efficacy [OR=1.07 (95%CI, 1.04-1.09), P = 0.0001], having public health insurance [OR=4.36 (95%CI, P=0.015], and education level (read and write) [OR=0.13 (95%CI,.02-.70), P=0.021]. Conclusions: The study reveals that non-modifiable and modifiable factors, including self-efficacy, play a crucial role in diabetes control. The study recommends providing targeted educational interventions, using different social media platforms, psychosocial support programs, and inclusive healthcare policies to improve diabetes control and mental well-being among diabetic patients.

Diabetes and prediabetes prevalence through a community-based screening initiative in Alqunfudah, Saudi Arabia.

Aim: This study aimed to identify prediabetic and diabetic patients using fasting blood sugar in Alqunfudah, Saudi Arabia. Patients & methods: Multistage stratified random sampling technique was used to recruit study participants aged 18 years and older. We measured anthropometric measures like waist circumference and body mass index. Results: A total of 332 participants were included in this study, 52.4% were female, 45.2% aged >50 years, 89.8% were Saudi, and 19.0% had been diagnosed with hypertension. Nearly a third (36.1%) of the participants were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and 28.3% had impaired fasting glucose. Age and hypertension were significant predictors of diabetes. Conclusion: Early detection and intervention are crucial to reducing the diabetes epidemic in Saudi Arabia.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widespread health concern. Saudi Arabia is among the countries with the highest prevalence of diabetes. We conducted a cross sectional study in Alqunfudah, Saudi Arabia, to identify apparently healthy individuals who had undiagnosed T2DM and prediabetics. Through community engagement, we carefully selected apparently health participants from the general population in Alqunfudah, regardless of age or nationality. We measured various health indicators like waist circumference, body mass index, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar levels. We included 332 participants in our study. Among them, slightly more than half were women, and a large sector was over 50 years old. Most of the participants were Saudi, and some had been diagnosed with hypertension. When we measured fasting blood sugar levels, we found that a considerable portion had T2DM, while others had impaired fasting blood sugar (prediabetic), indicating a risk of developing T2DM. Additionally, our analysis revealed that factors such as age and hypertension were associated with the diagnosis of T2DM. Our study highlights a significant prevalence of asymptomatic T2DM and prediabetes among the general population in Alqunfudah, Saudi Arabia. Early detection and intervention are critical for managing these conditions effectively. We recommend that local health authorities consider implementing screening programs for T2DM and prediabetes through community-based approaches to identify and assist people at risk.

Study in Alqunfudah, Saudi Arabia uncovers a concerning prevalence of diabetes & prediabetes in the general population. Early detection is vital. Urging local health authorities to initiate screening programs for early intervention using community engagement-based approach. #Diabetes #PublicHealth. More support is needed. #Obesity #community engagement.

Exploring the burden of irritable bowel syndrome among university students in Saudi Arabia: A study on prevalence, psychological associations, and well-being.

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experience not only a detrimental impact on their physical health but also a significant influence on their psychological well-being. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IBS among university students, investigating the sociodemographic and lifestyle factors influencing its onset. Furthermore, it explored the potential impact of psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, and overall well-being on the prevalence of IBS. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Saudi Arabian universities in November and December 2023. To collect data, an anonymous, validated, predesigned questionnaire was used. The diagnosis of IBS was carried out using the validated Arabic version of the Rome IV questionnaire. We used the Arabic version of the World Health Organization Well-being Index to assess the participants' well-being. We used the Arabic version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) to identify people who show clinically significant symptoms of anxiety and depression. Our study included a total of 379 university students, 46.7% were female 86.0% of participants resided in urban areas, and 7.2% had been previously diagnosed with IBS. The prevalence of IBS among participants was found to be 31.9%. We observed a significant association between marital status and IBS (χ2 = 3.95, P = .047). Furthermore, the highest prevalence of IBS was observed among students majoring in literary and scientific disciplines (χ2 = 0.952, P = .049). Individuals with IBS demonstrate a significantly higher prevalence of anxiety (71.90% vs 41.09%, P < .001) and depression (64.46% vs 42.64%, P < .001) compared to those without IBS. Furthermore, people with IBS had a slightly higher prevalence of poor well-being (38.84%) compared to those without IBS (33.72%), but this association was not statistically significant. In multivariate analysis, having a family history of IBS [OR = 1.75 (95% CI, 1.06-2.87), P = .029] having borderline anxiety [OR = 7.58, 95% CI (2.12-27.06), P = .012] and anxiety [OR = 16.07, 95% CI (4.57-56.52), P < .001], and depression [OR = 2.97, 95% CI (1.13-7.83), P = .010] were the main significant predictors of IBS among university students. The high prevalence of IBS among university students was associated with a family history of IBS as well as depression and anxiety. Increasing awareness, multidisciplinary support, and access to mental health services is required to ensure university students' well-being.

Prediction of Diabetes and Prediabetes among the Saudi Population Using a Non-Invasive Tool (AUSDRISK).

Background and Objectives: Screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) aims to identify asymptomatic individuals who may be at a higher risk, allowing proactive interventions. The objective of this study was to predict the incidence of DM2 and prediabetes in the Saudi population over the next five years. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Aseer region through August 2023 using a cross-sectional survey for data collection. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was adopted, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the validated Arabic version of the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK). Results: In total, 652 individuals were included in the study. Their mean age was 32.0 ± 12.0 years; 53.8% were male, 89.6% were from urban areas, and 55.8% were single. There were statistically significant differences between males and females in AUSDRISK items, including age, history of high blood glucose, use of medications for high blood pressure, smoking, physical activity, and measurements of waist circumference (p < 0.05). Based on AUSDRISK scores, 46.2% of the included participants were predicted to develop impaired glucose tolerance within the coming five years (65.8% among females vs. 23.6%), and 21.9% were predicted to develop DM2 (35.6% among males vs. 6.0% among females); this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Urgent public health action is required to prevent the increasing epidemic of DM2 in Saudi Arabia.

Spontaneous Reversal of Vitiligo, a Rare Phenomenon Reported in a Case in Saudi Arabia with an Insight into Metabolic Biochemical Derangements.

Background and Objectives: Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by hypopigmented macules occurring due to melanocyte destruction. An interplay of several biochemical mechanisms has been proposed to explain the etiopathogenesis of vitiligo, such as genetic, autoimmune responses, generation of inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress, and melanocyte detachment mechanisms. There is no cure for vitiligo; however, pharmacological treatment measures (cosmetic camouflage creams, steroids, psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy, narrowband UVB) are available, but they could have certain side effects. We reported an interesting case of vitiligo in Saudi Arabia that showed reversal of vitiligo, which is an extremely rare phenomenon, with the objective of probing the probable reasons for this reversal. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study on vitiligo that has reported spontaneous reversal of vitiligo in Saudi Arabia so far. Materials and Method: The patient presented to the Family Medicine clinic with a history of restoration of melanin pigment in his lesions after 3 years of the onset of vitiligo. Patients history was taken carefully along with clinical examination, carried out necessary biomedical lab investigations and compiled the data. The data at the time of pigment restoration were compared to the previous data when he developed the lesions. Result: The probable reasons for vitiligo reversal could be markedly decreased psychological stress, regular consumption of an antioxidant-rich herbal drink made of curcumin and honey, and dietary switchover to vegetarianism and an alcohol-free lifestyle. Conclusions: Curcumin-based herbal remedies could be an alternative option to treat vitiligo. These methods must be further explored through clinical trials as they are safer, easily available, and more affordable.

Factors associated with the knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women attending primary health care antenatal care clinics in Abha city.

Introduction: Knowledge of obstetric danger signs would equip women to make the right decisions and appropriate actions timely to have better health care assistance which will impose a significant impact on maternal mortality and morbidity. Hence, this study aimed to know the factors associated with the knowledge of obstetric danger signs among pregnant women who attend the primary health care clinics, which is considered as the first gate to seek health care for pregnant women during antenatal checkups. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 400 pregnant women selected by simple random sampling technique who were attending antenatal clinics at primary health care centers at Abha City by using an interview-based questionnaire.cores of <50%, 50-75%, and >75% were considered to be poor, intermediate, and good scores. Frequencies and percentages were used for descriptive variables, whereas for association, tests of significance (Chi square, t-test, and F-test) were applied. Results: Almost 70.8% of participants received health information on obstetric danger signs. The main sources of information were the Internet (23%), family, relatives or friends (17%), and health care providers. The highest participants' correct responses regarding obstetric danger signs were related to severe vaginal bleeding (93.5%), convulsions (76.8%), and decreased fetal movements (76.5%). Proportions of participants with poor knowledge showed an inverse and significant increase with their educational levels (P < 0.001). The highest percentage of poor knowledge grade was observed among participants with no children (54.6%). Participants who received previous information on danger signs had significantly better knowledge grades than those who have not received previous information (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Women's knowledge was suboptimal regarding obstetric danger signs. 30% of women did not receive information about danger signs. Health education provided on obstetric danger signs to pregnant women should be enforced to those who are illiterate, are unemployed, have a low family income, and are with no or less previous pregnancies.