Evaluating Parental Knowledge and Behaviors Regarding Developmental Toxicants in Jazan, Saudi Arabia Using the Prevention of Toxic Chemicals in the Environment for Children Tool (PRoTECT).

This study evaluated the level of knowledge among parents in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, regarding substances that can harm child development. The Prevention of Toxic Chemicals in the Environment for Children Tool (PRoTECT) was used for this assessment. A cross-sectional survey using a multi-stage cluster random sampling approach was undertaken among 424 parents who were enlisted from eight primary healthcare centers (PHCCs). The PRoTECT score's median value was 72 out of 90, suggesting a generally high level of awareness. The study found that individuals with higher education, particularly those with postgraduate degrees, had greater awareness of protecting their children's health. Interestingly, unemployed individuals and those residing in mountainous areas also demonstrated higher awareness, possibly due to having more time to focus on their children's health and well-being. Most participants (68.2%) acknowledged the correlation between exposure to toxic chemicals during pregnancy and early childhood, and the subsequent development of neurodevelopmental disorders. The study found a solid foundation of knowledge, with 85.1% of participants interested in learning more about reducing children's exposure, but it also stressed the need for specific actions to turn awareness into prevention. These findings would help policymakers develop effective strategies, such as targeted educational campaigns, collaboration with healthcare providers, utilization of media channels, and encouragement of community-led initiatives, to reduce children's exposure to developmental toxicants in line with national and global environmental health initiatives. Future research should focus on longitudinal consciousness and behavior evaluations and regional environmental contaminants.

Satisfaction-Behavior Paradox in Lifestyle Choices: A Cross-Sectional Study of Health Behaviors and Satisfaction Levels in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Lifestyle choices significantly affect health outcomes in Saudi Arabia, but the relationship between health behaviors and satisfaction is unclear. This study aimed to assess lifestyle choices and associated satisfaction levels among residents in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, with 3411 participants. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, and satisfaction data were collected using a questionnaire that was completed during interviews. Logistic regression analyses were implemented to examine the relationships between the study variables and factors related to weight, physical activity, and eating satisfaction. RESULTS: The study found that 38.3% of participants were inactive and 77% rarely ate fruits and vegetables. A total of 47.6% were overweight or obese. Weight (71.12%) and eating (71.59%) satisfaction were high despite these health concerns. The satisfaction-behavior paradox was especially evident in diet. Higher income, physical activity, and healthy eating habits were significantly associated with higher satisfaction (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.15-1.93, p = 0.003 for weight satisfaction, OR = 34.74, 95% CI: 25.42-48.35, p < 0.001 for physical activity satisfaction, and OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.67-2.61, p < 0.001 for fruit and vegetable consumption). CONCLUSIONS: Lifestyle behaviors and satisfaction in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, are complex. The satisfaction-behavior paradox, especially in diet, reveals a major gap between perceived and actual health. These findings highlight the need for targeted, culturally sensitive interventions that address behavioral change and perception alignment to improve regional public health.

Quality of Life Among Saudi Parents of Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children can adversely impact parental quality of life (QoL). However, limited research exists among families in Saudi Arabia, especially in understudied regions like Jazan. This study was designed to determine the QoL in parents of children with ADHD in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia from June 2023 to December 2023. Online questionnaires were used to collect data from parents of children with ADHD residing in the country. A structured questionnaire was developed in consultation with the National Institute for Children's Health Quality (NICHQ) guidelines. The total sample size was 276. The study participants were recruited through convenient non-random snowballing sampling where the promotion of the questionnaire web link aided in reaching the required sample size of the study. Participants aged more than 18 years, residents of the Jazan area, and both genders were included. R software was used for data analysis. Results The study, involving 275 participants, revealed that 45 (16%) children were diagnosed with ADHD by doctors, with a higher prevalence among males 36 (80%). The NICHQ scale identified ADHD in 50 (18%) participants, with the predominant subtypes being inattentive 28 (56%), hyperactive/impulsive 28 (56%), and combined 19 (38%). The median QoL score was 8.6, with good QoL reported by 51.27% of parents and poor QoL by 48.73%. Gender significantly influenced QoL (p < 0.01), with 57% of males and 43% of females reporting good QoL, while 61% of females and 39% of males reported poor QoL. Oppositional defiant symptoms were significantly associated with poorer QoL (p < 0.05). There was a notable alignment between ADHD diagnoses from parental reports and the NICHQ scale. Conclusions This cross-sectional study found that parents of children with ADHD behaviors, especially those exhibiting oppositional defiant symptoms, experienced significantly lower QoL, particularly in personal fulfillment and psychosocial well-being. The findings emphasize the need for culturally tailored psychosocial interventions in Saudi Arabia to improve parental coping and QoL, benefiting overall family well-being and child outcomes.

Changes in Nutritional Habits and Lifestyles Associated With COVID-19 in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A 2022 Cross-Sectional Survey.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted dietary habits and physical activity patterns, with some long-term consequences. This study evaluated the effects of the pandemic on adults' dietary habits and physical activity in Jazan and compared them to pre-pandemic. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted among conveniently selected 559 individuals in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, in February 2022 using a validated online questionnaire. Data was collected to assess changes in eating habits, food intake, and weight before and 21 months after lifting of COVID-19 curfew restrictions in the region. Chi-square and McNemar's tests were used for analysis. RESULTS: The proportion of individuals consuming homemade meals decreased from 50.6% (n=283) before the pandemic to 46.5% (n=260) during the pandemic, while the proportion of participants consuming less than three meals per day increased from 42.2% (n=236) to 45.4% (n=254), and breakfast consumption decreased significantly from 58.1% (n=325) to 53.5% (n=299) (p = 0.033). There was an increase in the consumption of fast food from 10.7% (n=60) to 12.0% (n=67) and dining at restaurants from 18.4% (n=103) to 19.3% (n=108); however, these increases were not statistically significant compared to pre-pandemic rates. During the pre-COVID-19 period, 46.9% (n=262) reported engaging in physical activity one to three times a week, whereas this frequency decreased to 41.3% (n=231) during the pandemic (p = 0.017). In contrast, a significant increase was observed in the duration of computer usage as prior to the pandemic, 20.2% (n=113) reported spending more than five hours per day on the computer, while this proportion increased to 31.8% (n=178) during the pandemic (p < 0.001). Furthermore, a considerable proportion of both males and females, constituting over one-third (n=189) of the total sample, reported an increase in body weight. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the adult population in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia experienced significant lifestyle changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, including altered dietary patterns and a significant decline in physical activity. To mitigate potential adverse effects on future well-being, it is crucial to implement enduring initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles.

The Impact of Physical Activity on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress during Pregnancy in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and Objective: This study aimed to explore the impact of physical activity on depression, anxiety, and stress among pregnant women in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending randomly selected prenatal clinics in primary healthcare hospitals in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The calculated sample size was 350. Data were collected conveniently through a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographic details, pregnancy-related characteristics, physical activity assessed using the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), and mental health parameters evaluated by the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon and Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests, with significance levels set at p < 0.05. Results: The study involved 406 pregnant females. Nearly a third (31%) had a family history of depression, anxiety, or distress. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 62.6%, 68.7%, and 38.4%, respectively. The mean sedentary, light, moderate, vigorous, and total energy expenditures were 1.512, 24.35, 22.32, 4.84, and 53.02 metabolic equivalent tasks/day. Anxious females exhibited higher light activity (median 24, p = 0.033), while stressed ones showed higher light (median 25, p = 0.039), moderate (median 20, p < 0.001), and vigorous activity (median 3, p < 0.001). A significant association was observed between total energy expenditure and stress levels (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of physical activity in managing depression, anxiety, and stress among pregnant women in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The findings suggest a need for tailored interventions to promote physical activity to improve mental well-being during pregnancy.

Evaluating the public's readiness to combat vector-borne disease threats in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional survey.

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) pose a significant public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the Jazan region. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding VBDs among the population of Jazan and to identify factors associated with these variables. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 642 adult residents of Jazan using a convenience random sampling technique. The survey tool consisted of 6 domains: demographics, knowledge of VBDs, preventive practices, care-seeking behavior, knowledge of specific VBDs, and attitudes towards VBDs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t tests, ANOVA, and multivariable logistic regression. The majority of participants (60.0%) had high knowledge scores, while (75.5%) and (77.7%) had high attitude and practice scores, respectively. However, knowledge gaps were identified in specific areas, such as the transmission of leishmaniasis and Rift Valley fever. Gender was a significant predictor of both knowledge and practice scores, with males having higher knowledge and females demonstrating higher levels of preventive practices. Age, education, income, and working status were also associated with knowledge scores. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and educational campaigns to address the identified gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Future research should focus on exploring the effectiveness of different intervention strategies and investigating the integration of VBD prevention and control measures into existing healthcare systems. By employing a multi-disciplinary approach, evidence-based strategies can be developed to prevent and control VBDs, ultimately improving public health outcomes in Jazan and other endemic regions worldwide.

Satisfaction Paradoxes in Health Behaviors: Contrasting Patterns across Weight, Physical Activity and Dietary Habits.

(1) Background: Obesity, a poor diet, and inactivity are major health issues among Saudi youth. However, satisfaction with unhealthy lifestyles could impede change. This study assessed lifestyle factors and related satisfaction among Saudi university students. (2) Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 1957 students at Jazan University completed surveys on demographics, physical activity, dietary habits, and 10-point satisfaction scales for weight, activity, and diet. Chi-squared tests and logistic regression were used to analyze the associations between behaviors and satisfaction. (3) Results: Overweight/obesity prevalence was 25.45%, and only 26.67% of the subjects met activity guidelines. Many of them exhibited poor dietary habits. Despite unhealthy behaviors, some expressed high satisfaction, especially regarding their diets. Subjects with a normal BMI had the highest weight satisfaction. Activity satisfaction increased with higher activity levels. Dietary satisfaction was minimally impacted by healthfulness. Males and higher incomes were correlated with greater satisfaction. (4) Conclusions: A concerning paradox exists between unhealthy lifestyles and satisfaction among Saudi university students, particularly regarding their diets. Multicomponent interventions informed by behavior change theories and employing motivational techniques are urgently needed to address this disconnect and facilitate positive behavior change.

Exploring the Relationship Between Bakhour Use and Respiratory Health: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Despite deep cultural traditions, incense burning significantly impacts respiratory health. Effects of Arabian bakhour remain unknown in Saudi Arabia's Jazan region with prevalent use. This cross-sectional study addresses this gap by investigating bakhour exposure and respiratory diseases. Methods: This was descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in Jazan area, Saudi Arabia, from October 2023 to March 2024. A total of 1612 participants age more than 18 years, both gender and resident of Jazan Area were included. Those aged less than 18 years were excluded. SPSS v 26 was used for data analysis. Results: The sample (n=1612) had a mean age of 29±11 years and was 63% female. Bakhour use was nearly universal (98%), especially using coal (73%). Higher bakhour frequency significantly associated with increased cough (p<0.01) and dyspnea (p<0.01). Certain bakhour types linked to greater allergic rhinitis prevalence (p<0.01). Regression analysis revealed cough during bakhour use worsened respiratory health (increased respiratory score) by 3.89 times (95% CI 1.13-6.64; p=0.006) while dyspnea increased the score by 7.48 times (95% CI 4.70-10.25; p<0.001). Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the association between Bakhour use and respiratory health in the Jazan region. The findings emphasize the need for further research and public health interventions to mitigate potential respiratory risks associated with Bakhour use.

Assessing the Dependence and Perceptions of the Harm and Addictiveness of Electronic Cigarettes among Saudi University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

(1) Background: The rising prevalence of e-cigarette use among university students necessitates a comprehensive understanding of dependence levels and associated factors. This study investigates e-cigarette dependence among Jazan University students in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: With the use of a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 1187 students through an online survey from January to April 2024. Dependence levels were assessed using the Penn State Electronic Cigarette Dependence Index (PS-ECDI), and the Arabic version of the questionnaire was validated through pilot testing. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with e-cigarette dependence. (3) Results: The results indicated that among current e-cigarette users, 37.4% had low dependence, 34.4% had medium dependence, and 13.8% had high dependence. A significant proportion of current and ever users regarded e-cigarettes to be less harmful (50.6% and 44.4%, respectively) and less addictive (37.9% and 32.3%, respectively) than cigarettes. Significant factors influencing dependence included gender, with males showing higher odds of medium (AOR = 12.8, 95% CI: 3.4-47.6) and low dependence (AOR = 9.7, 95% CI: 2.5-37.3) compared to females. Longer duration of e-cigarette use (>2 years) was strongly associated with high dependence (AOR = 50, 95% CI: 7.7-324). Daily use and multiple quit attempts were also significant predictors of higher dependence levels. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight the substantial e-cigarette dependence among university students and underscore the need for targeted interventions to address this growing public health concern.

Spatiotemporal, Demographic, and Climatic Drivers of Malaria Transmission in the Endemic Setting of Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND OBJECTIVES: Despite progress, malaria remains endemic in Jazan, Saudi Arabia necessitating updated epidemiological research to guide elimination strategies. This study analyzed recent surveillance data to elucidate drivers of sustained transmission. A retrospective, epidemiological study was conducted using malaria surveillance data from the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia over a 3-year period from January 2018 to December 2020. METHODS: Deidentified records of all confirmed malaria cases reported across Jazan during the study period were obtained from the Jazan Department of Health infectious disease surveillance system. Additional meteorological data was acquired to assess climatic correlates. The final analysis included 5255 confirmed cases meeting completeness criteria for key variables. Descriptive statistics characterized cases across demographic factors and spatial and temporal distributions. Correlations and linear regression modeling identified associations between monthly cases and weather parameters. Mapping visualized geographic patterns. RESULTS: Of 5255 confirmed cases, most were concentrated in Baish sector (50.8-72.0% annually), affected adult male foreigners (93.8-97.0%), peaked inconsistently across seasons, and were imported (85.4-94.9%). Non-Saudi nationality had 6-fold higher incidence versus Saudi citizens in 2020 (677.6 vs 23.1 per 100,000). Monthly cases associated negatively with temperature (p=0.015) and positively with windspeed (p=0.005). INTERPRETATION CONCLUSION: Malaria persistence in Jazan involves geographic and demographic hotspots driven by imported infections and climate effects on vectors. Tailored programming aligned with evolving local dynamics will be essential to sustain elimination gains. Surveillance, optimized interventions, and flexible adaptation to high-risk locations/populations and meteorological influences are key priorities.