RESUMO
Background: Sciatica, a pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, can cause significant suffering and functional limitations. Understanding individual populations' knowledge and attitudes about sciatica pain is crucial for designing targeted interventions and enhancing healthcare delivery, especially in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitude toward sciatica pain and treatment methods among the population of Al-Qassim in Saudi Arabia. Methods and materials:This online cross-sectional study was conducted in the Al-Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, using a self-administered questionnaire. The data was analyzed using SPSS software, with numeric data presented as mean ± SD and categorical variables as frequencies and percentages. Correlation analyses included the Chi-squared test and one-way ANOVA. Results: The study received 398 responses, from mostly female (n=305, 76.6%) and Saudi adults aged under 30 (n=248, 62.3%). Most participants sought treatment for sciatica pain from a specialist doctor (n=28, 56.0%) or a general doctor (n=10, 20.0%). Physical therapy was the most common self-treatment method (n=11, 32.4%), followed by painkillers and muscle relaxants (n=10, 29.4%). Knowledge and attitude toward sciatica were generally low (mean score: 3.54 ± 2.61 out of 9), with only 70 (17.6%) showing good knowledge. Most respondents recognized practices like spinal imaging, surgery as a last resort, and exercise/sitting habits as impacting sciatica outcomes. Traditional therapies like massage, cupping, acupuncture, and cautery were considered beneficial. Educational level significantly impacted knowledge scores, with higher mean scores among postgraduate education holders and bachelor's degree holders (mean scores: 4.06 ± 2.48 and 3.98 ± 2.53, respectively). Age, gender, occupation, nationality, and region showed no significant differences in mean knowledge scores. Attitude scores were similar across sociodemographic spectra, with younger respondents having slightly more positive attitudes. Conclusion: The study showed poor knowledge, influenced by education levels, and neutral attitudes about sciatica among residents of Al-Qassim. Therefore, educational programs and engagement of healthcare stakeholders are recommended to raise awareness and improve knowledge and attitudes.
RESUMO
Several dietary factors are associated with an increased risk of diabetes in Saudi Arabia. The increasing consumption of processed and sugary foods, including fast food and sugary beverages, in recent decades along with the rising prevalence of diabetes indicate the necessity of exploring the influence of eating habits on diabetes in Saudi Arabia. That is why the association between eating habits and diabetes in Saudi Arabia has become a topic of increasing interest. Therefore, this systematic literature review aimed to explore the influence of eating habits on the prevalence of diabetes in Saudi Arabia by providing a comprehensive synthesis of existing evidence from studies conducted on this topic in Saudi Arabia. A systematic search was conducted using predefined search terms in electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Medline, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Studies investigating the relationship between eating habits and diabetes prevalence among the Saudi Arabian population were included. Data extraction was performed, and the quality of included studies was assessed using appropriate tools. The findings were synthesized and discussed. Understanding the association between eating habits and diabetes in Saudi Arabia is crucial for developing effective preventive and management strategies for diabetes and other non-communicable diseases and promoting healthier eating habits in Saudi Arabia.
RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) pose a significant challenge to the well-being and productivity of individuals and various occupational groups, including teachers. Among teachers, the prevalence of MSD has raised concerns globally, impacting their daily activities and overall quality of life. Buraidah and Saudi Arabia, like many other regions, face the implications of this issue. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and associated risk factors of MSD among teachers in Buraydah, providing valuable insights into the extent of the problem and potential areas for intervention. METHODOLOGY: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted for three months, from April 1 to June 30, 2023, using the Arabic version of the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorder Questionnaire. This study was conducted in all schools in Buraydah City, Saudi Arabia. The study population was all schoolteachers (including principals, vice principals, etc.) in Buraydah City. The study analyzed responses from 648 teachers and 139 school workers using statistical tests, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models. RESULTS: The results indicated a notable prevalence of MSD among teachers, with a significant association found between age, gender, and major depressive disorder (MDD) and MSD. The study reveals that females are at higher risk of MSD compared to males, emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions. Moreover, the presence of MDD is identified as a significant contributor to MSD among teachers. However, certain demographic and lifestyle factors, such as marital status, level of school, smoking habits, and fixed rest times, do not show significant associations with MSD. Although age and years of experience are correlated, only age is found to significantly contribute to MSD. Regular exercise and BMI also do not emerge as significant contributors, although a lack of exercise shows a marginal impact. CONCLUSION: This study's findings have implications for educational institutions and policymakers, highlighting the need for tailored interventions to address MSD among teachers. It underscores the importance of ergonomic interventions, gender-sensitive approaches, and mental health support.
RESUMO
Introduction: Bell's palsy, characterized by acute onset unilateral facial weakness, is caused by the paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face. This condition can result in functional disabilities, and early detection and management are crucial for quick recovery. Awareness was found to be one of the factors associated with early detection and interventions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the awareness of the population of Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia, regarding Bell's palsy. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study on 1,198 participants in Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia, between May and July 2023. We used a self-administered online questionnaire inquiring about knowledge and awareness of Bell's palsy. We performed descriptive and correlation analyses, and a p-value of less than 0.05 indicated a statistical significance. RESULTS: The mean (± SD) knowledge score was 7.02 ± 2.03 out of a total of 13 points. Almost a third of participants (n=353, 29.5%) expressed uncertainty about the causes of Bell's palsy, with 346 (28.9%) and 107 (8.9%) attributing it to idiopathic factors and viral infections, respectively. Most participants (n=520, 43.4%) believed both genders were equally affected, while 563 (46.9%) correctly identified cranial nerve 7 as the affected nerve. Treatment awareness varied, with 629 (58.2%) acknowledging physiotherapy and (n=777, 64.9%) acknowledging traditional medicine. Interestingly, only 111 (9.3%) thought that Bell's palsy was permanent, most participants (n=1023, 85.4%) recognized Bell's palsy as treatable, and 1,105 (92.2%) correctly perceived it as non-contagious. There were significant correlations between awareness and age (p<0.001), gender (p<0.001), marital status (p<0.001), occupation (p<0.001), information source (p<0.001), nationality (p=0.009), and education levels (p<0.031). Addressing these gaps and demographic nuances through targeted educational campaigns is crucial for enhancing overall awareness of Bell's palsy. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate suboptimal awareness among participants in general, poor knowledge about causes and clinical manifestation, and a relatively better awareness of treatments. We recommend further studies exploring awareness and associated factors.