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Fadel ZT, Jefri ZE, Alkhalifah HA, Ahmad HMY, Alzahrani RA, Ashi MB, Samargandi OA. Physician practices in referring rheumatoid hand and thumb carpometacarpal arthritis cases to hand surgeons. Saudi Med J 2024; 45:919-928. [PMID: 39218469 PMCID: PMC11376691 DOI: 10.15537/smj.2024.45.9.20240187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the referral practices across different medical specialties and identify possible barriers to hand surgery referral. Rheumatoid hand deformities (RHDs) and thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis may require surgery once deformities occur. However, in Saudi Arabia, the rate of referrals to hand surgeons remains low. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study that included 102 consultants of family medicine, rheumatology, and orthopedics across various regions of Saudi Arabia. A total of 30 institutions were contacted and requested to distribute a survey questionnaire to their physicians; these institutions included 8 private hospitals, 16 government hospitals, and 6 primary healthcare centers. The survey included questions on the incidence, rate, management, knowledge, and referral of patients with RHD and CMC arthritis using a 5-point Likert scale. The Kruskal-Wallis H test was utilized in our analysis to evaluate the differences in responses among the 3 specialties. RESULTS For RHD and thumb CMC arthritis, the referral rate was higher among orthopedic surgeons compared to rheumatologists and family medicine physicians. The main barriers to referral were patient refusal, medical treatment alone being deemed adequate, and a lack of awareness of surgical options for management. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight discrepancies in patterns of physician referral of RHD and thumb CMC arthritis cases to hand surgeons, indicating the need for targeted interventions to improve referral rates and enhance patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahir T Fadel
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainalabden E Jefri
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussain A Alkhalifah
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanin M Y Ahmad
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad A Alzahrani
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed B Ashi
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama A Samargandi
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery (Fadel, Samargandi), Faculty of Medicine King Abdulaziz University, and from the Faculty of Medicine (Jefri, Alkhalifah, Ahmad, Alzahrani), King Abdulaziz University; and from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Ashi), National Guard Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Bin Alamir AA, AlShammari AM, Almutairi MM, Aldhafiri HJ, Alnasser Y. How safe is Autheem therapy for young Saudi infants? A question worth asking. J Family Med Prim Care 2024; 13:3184-3189. [PMID: 39228639 PMCID: PMC11368277 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1959_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In Saudi Arabia, a traditional therapy for a folk labeled problem known as "Autheem - " is often offered to infants. The procedure involves manipulating an infant's soft palate to alleviate pain associated with infant colic and poor feeding. However, concerns remain about this procedure's impact on infant health and its potential to transmit infections. This study focused on perceptions that Saudi mothers hold about Autheem therapy. Methods A descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted via an online platform to reach Saudi mothers in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia. Results Five hundred and thirty-six Saudi mothers participated; half were older than 30 years of age. Despite a high rate of college degree attainment, the majority of mothers relied on their elders as a source of information (88.4%). Autheem was viewed to be a stand-alone disease by 86.5% of respondents; 71.4% believed it could not be treated with modern medicine. Most infants were under six months of age when they received Autheem therapy (72%). Roughly 13% of mothers found that their infant had a fever after the therapy; we found an association between Autheem therapy and viral illnesses. About 13% of mothers altered their child's vaccination schedule after Autheem therapy. Conclusion Older mothers have more positive attitudes towards and stronger beliefs in Autheem therapy than younger mothers. The therapy's strong association with viral illnesses and its negative impact on vaccination schedules are major public health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yossef Alnasser
- Department of Pediatric, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- George Washington Milken School of Public Health, Washington, DC, United States
- BronxCare Hospital, Bronx, NY, United States
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Almalki SA, Ashdown BK. Women's access to healthcare services in the Jazan region of the KSA. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2024; 19:766-774. [PMID: 39081592 PMCID: PMC11286984 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2024.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Our study investigated women's access to governmental healthcare in the Jazan region of the KSA. Our purpose is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the determinates of women's perceptions of their own access to healthcare, considering various demographic factors, family life, and gender role beliefs. Methods We conducted a hierarchical regression analysis using data from a sample of 494 women. The first model included nationality, education, age, rurality, and other sociodemographic factors. The second model included the variables from the first model as well as self-ratings of physical and mental health and regular exercise. The third model included the variables from the first two models in addition to satisfaction with family life and gender role beliefs. Results Our analysis revealed that age, nationality, employment, and having good physical and mental health, and satisfaction with family life positively predicted women's perceptions of their access to healthcare. Adherence to traditional gender roles, however, predicted less accessibility. Conclusion Policymakers could use the outcomes of our study to enhance women's healthcare accessibility in Jazan region. The results could enhance the development and transformation of healthcare and women's health issues, particularly in understudied rural Saudi regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Almalki
- Department of Home Economics, University College of Farasan, Jazan University, Jazan, KSA
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Gudipaneni RK, Alzabni KMD, Alrashedi FFA, Alruwaili DHJ, Albalawi FA, Alanazi AH, Alshamri BS, Almaeen SH, Manchery N, Bawazir OA. The impact of parental dental anxiety and oral health literacy on child oral health and dental-visit patterns: a cross-sectional study. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:853. [PMID: 39068408 PMCID: PMC11283704 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04536-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying the risk indicators of parental dental anxiety (PDA) and oral health literacy (OHL) can help oral healthcare professionals recognise challenges in this field. Armed with the appropriate information, they can effectively engage with parents to build trust and promote early and regular child dental visits. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the association between PDA and OHL with the sociobehavioural characteristics of families, self-reported child oral health (presence of ≥ 1 untreated decayed teeth) and the dental visit patterns amongst children living in Al Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A total of 430 parents with children aged ≥ 14 years were invited using a systematic random sampling method. PDA was assessed using the Dental Anxiety Scale-Revised (DAS-R) scale, and parents' OHL was measured using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry-30 (REALD-30). The relationships amongst participant characteristics, PDA and OHL were evaluated through the Chi-square and ANOVA. Additionally, binary regression analysis was conducted to identify predictor variables associated with PDA and OHL. A P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Children with ≥ 1 untreated decayed tooth were 2.5 times more likely to have PDA (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.37, 4.37). Children who visited the dentist in < 6 months had 93% lower likelihood to have PDA (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.07; 95% CI = 0.03, 0.18). Parents aged 20-25 years were 81% less likely to have OHL than those above 30 years (AOR = 0.19; P = 0.038). Similarly, parents with medium family income were 52% less likely to have OHL than the high-income group (AOR = 0.48; P = 0.013). Finally, parents of children who visited the dentist within < 6 months were 34 times more likely to have OHL than those whose children visited the dentist > 12 months ago (AOR = 34.94; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION PDA and OHL were significantly affected by parental age, family income, the presence of ≥ 1 untreated decaying tooth and the child dental visit patterns. During a child's first dental visit, paediatric dentists should always assess the PDA, OHL and sociobehavioural characteristics of a family by using appropriate scales and semistructured interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Kumar Gudipaneni
- Pediatric dentistry, Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Khalid Maziad D Alzabni
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Fraih A Alrashedi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dimah Hamoud J Alruwaili
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Farah Awad Albalawi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asrar Helal Alanazi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Buthainah Saleh Alshamri
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saud Hamdan Almaeen
- Pediatric dentistry, Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nithin Manchery
- School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland Herston, Queensland, 4006, Australia
| | - Omar A Bawazir
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Almutairi B, Adam TR, Bustami R. Caries prevalence among children at public and private primary schools in Riyadh: a retrospective study. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:809. [PMID: 39020334 PMCID: PMC11256497 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04570-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Dental caries is a global oral health issue, especially critical in children, affecting their growth, nutrition, and education due to school absences or distractions from dental pain. The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between school types (indicative of socioeconomic conditions) and dental caries prevalence among primary school children in Riyadh, alongside assessing the overall caries prevalence among schoolchildren in Riyadh. Retrospective study on 28,343 first and fourth-grade students from 960 public and private schools in Riyadh, using data from the Saudi Ministry of Health (Feb-April 2019). Utilized the DMFT/dmft index for assessment and collected demographic data. Most of the schools were public (76.1%), private national (17.1%), and private international (6.8%). Overall, the mean DMFT index for permanent teeth and the dmft index for primary teeth were 1.78 and 1.94, respectively. 58% of school children had no dental caries, 25% had mild caries, and 17% had moderate to severe caries. Public school children showed a higher caries prevalence than private schools. Oral disease rates were higher in girls than in boys, and grade four students had a higher prevalence than grade one students. Saudi Arabia, a developing nation, faces challenges in addressing oral health, especially in public schools. Targeted initiatives are crucial for awareness, preventive measures, and meeting oral health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tasneem Rashed Adam
- College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Rami Bustami
- College of Business, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Pasay-An E, Saguban R, Cabansag D, Alkubati S. Health literacy as mediator between perception of illness and self-medication behaviour among outpatients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: implication to primary healthcare nursing. BMC Nurs 2024; 23:278. [PMID: 38664742 PMCID: PMC11046901 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-01950-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Perception of illness (PI) and self-medication (SM) have been thoroughly explored in the existing literature. However, there is a lack of understanding about the mediating effect of health literacy on PI and SM in a non-homogenous population like Saudi Arabia. As such, primary healthcare nurses who have constant interaction with the outpatients have difficulty addressing self-medication. This study aimed to investigate health literacy as mediator between PI and SM among outpatients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). METHODS This study employed a cross-sectional approach and was conducted at 10 major primary healthcare (PHC) clinics serving 30 million individuals in 13 different regions of KSA. The 424 outpatients who participated in this study were selected through convenience sampling. Data collection started in November 2022 and concluded in February 2023. RESULTS The mean of the Brief Health Literacy Screening Tool, self-medication scale (SMS), and PI scores were 13.01 ± 3.32, 27.46 ± 7.01, and 45.56 ± 7.69, respectively. There was a significant relationship between the age and BRIEF scores (p = 0.039), and the level of education was significantly related to all variables, as were nationality and BRIEF scores (p = 0.001). Finally, occupation was significantly related to BRIEF and SMS scores (p = 0.001 and 0.003, respectively). Completing college and being non-Saudi had positively significant effects on health literacy (p < 0.01). The structural equation model (SEM) found no effect of PI on health literacy or SM behaviour (p = 0.263 and 0.84, respectively), but health literacy did have an effect on SM behaviour (p<0.001). CONCLUSION Health literacy is an important factor in self-medication behavior and that PI is not directly related to health literacy or self-medication behavior, but that health literacy does influence self-medication behavior. Therefore, primary healthcare givers should promote public health literacy alongside the control of other conditions as one of the most effective ways to decrease the prevalence of self-medication and the risks associated with it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddieson Pasay-An
- Maternal and Child Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail City, Hail, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Reynita Saguban
- Department of Mental Health Nursing, AJA campus, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail City, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dolores Cabansag
- Medical-Surgical Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail City, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameer Alkubati
- Medical-Surgical Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail City, Saudi Arabia
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Aljahany M, Doumi R, Alhuthail RA, Alshangiti HY, Alsugair RA, Aldokhail LS, Aljohani LH, Alqasimi NA, Alotaibi EM, Alaradi LM, Alabdullah NA, Alkelabi NS, Aleyeidi NA, Fayed A. Public Health Literacy and Emergency Department Utilization in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2024; 17:995-1004. [PMID: 38680480 PMCID: PMC11055523 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s440872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Health literacy (HL) is the degree in which individuals are able to access, comprehend, and use publicly available health resources and services. A previous study was done in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) assessing the prevalence of HL, the study shows that almost half of KSA residents had limited HL. Most studies that show the level of HL and its relationship to emergency department (ED) utilization were conducted outside KSA. This study aims to assess the association between HL and utilization of ED services and to estimate the prevalence, factors, and outcomes of low HL in KSA. Patients and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 903 participants in KSA over a period of 2 months (April and May 2023) using an online survey. Participants were asked about sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, nationality, marital status, education, work status, income), associated factors (chronic diseases, psychiatric disorders, Covid-19 infection, Covid-19 vaccination, ED visits), and Health Literacy (read, access, understand, evaluation, decision). A health literacy instrument for adults (HELIA), which consists of the previously mentioned five subscales, was used to estimate the level of HL and its association with the risk factors. Results Almost 529 (58.58%) and 374 (41.42%) had limited HL and adequate HL, respectively. Participants with limited HL were mostly aged 35-45 years (61.7%), men (p < 0.05) (68.9%), divorced (65.9%), non-Saudi (69.6%), and had elementary level of education (66.7%). Participants with adequate HL had master's and PhD degree (48.1%), were healthcare students or graduates (62.8%, p < 0.05), had an income >30 thousand riyals (55.6%, p < 0.05), were previously infected with COVID-19 (43%), and did not visit ED in the preceding year (42.3%). Conclusion A high prevalence of low HL among KSA residents was observed. There was no significant difference in ED utilization between participants who had adequate and limited HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muna Aljahany
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rasha Doumi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ruba Adel Alhuthail
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hind Yahiya Alshangiti
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Abdullah Alsugair
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Salah Aldokhail
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain Hatim Aljohani
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nuwayyir Abdullah Alqasimi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Enar Mohammed Alotaibi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain Mohamed Alaradi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah Abdulaziz Alabdullah
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadeen Saad Alkelabi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouran A Aleyeidi
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amel Fayed
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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AlJohani BA, Bugis BA. Advantages and Challenges of Implementation and Strategies for Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia: A Systemic Review. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2024; 61:469580241233447. [PMID: 38357867 PMCID: PMC10874142 DOI: 10.1177/00469580241233447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The Saudi Vision 2030 emphasizes the need for health insurance in terms of both economic growth and lowering government healthcare costs. Recently, the Saudi Ministry of Health has requested the private sector to contribute more to health spending through alternative financing and delivery systems, specifically health insurance. The main purpose of this review is to systematically review the benefits and issues of the implementation approach for health insurance in Saudi Arabia. Three electronic databases were used to conduct the systematic search for articles published in 2018 or after as this is a recent review of the last 5 years articles. Articles were considered if they matched the following criteria: Saudi articles concentrating on health insurance in Saudi Arabia, with a particular emphasis on issues, problems, barriers, and challenges related to insurance in Saudi Arabia. Of the many references identified in the initial search, 13 studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. The included studies clearly highlighted, explained the current financial methods of the healthcare system in Saudi Arabia, and evaluated Cooperative Health Insurance's potential contribution to the healthcare system's success in achieving the Saudi Vision 2030 goals, as well as the benefits and disadvantages of health insurance. This review exemplifies the need for implementation of health insurance in Saudi Arabia to improve economic growth, and to improve efficiency and quality of care. Many of the issues were identified in this review could be addressed by a strong healthcare infrastructure. The Council of Cooperative Health Insurance and Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency should keep monitoring medical services and collaborating toward enhancing Saudi Arabia's health insurance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bussma Ahmed Bugis
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Saudi Arabia
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Alyazidi F, Shakely D, Petzold M, Alyazidi F, Hussain-Alkhateeb L. Community perception of causes of death using verbal autopsy for diabetes mellitus in Saudi Arabia. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001690. [PMID: 38051697 PMCID: PMC10697554 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a serious global health issue which significantly impacts public health and socioeconomic development. Exploring how the community perceives the causes of death and their associated risk factors is crucial for public health. This study combines verbal autopsy (VA) with the Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) register to explore community perceptions of causes of death and associated influential factors in Makkah province, Saudi Arabia. 302 VA interviews were conducted with relatives or caregivers of deceased who died between 2018 and 2021 based on T2DM medical register from Alnoor Specialist Hospital in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia. Cause-specific mortality fractions (CSMFs) obtained from the VA using the InterVA-5 model were utilized to assess community perception. We used a multivariable logistic regression model to determine factors influencing community perceptions of causes of death. Lin's CCC with 95% CI was used to analyze the concordance for the CSMFs from verbal autopsy causes of death (VACoD) as a presumed reference standard and family-reported causes of death (FRCoD). The outcomes of this study demonstrate a generally broad spectrum of community perceived mortalities, with some critical misconceptions based on the type of death and other vital events like marital status, with an overall CCC of 0.60 (95% CI: 0.20-1.00; p = 003). The study findings demonstrate that community perception is weak if the deceased was male compared to female (aOR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.26-1.03) and if the deceased was > = 80 years compared to 34-59 years (aOR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.16-1.38), but it significantly improves among married compared to single (aOR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.02-4.42). Exploring community perception of causes of death is crucial as it provides valuable insights into the community's understanding, beliefs, and concerns regarding mortality. Higher or lower community perception is attributed to how people may perceive risk factors associated with the causes of death, which can guide public health planning and interventional programs. The study findings further emphasize the need to employ robust and standardized VA methods within the routine medical services for a systemized assessment of families' reported causes of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faleh Alyazidi
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences at Al-Leith, Umm Al-Qura University, Al-Leith, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Deler Shakely
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Max Petzold
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fawaz Alyazidi
- Infectious Diseases Control Department, Executive Directorate of Preventive Medicine, Makkah Healthcare Cluster, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Laith Hussain-Alkhateeb
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Population Health Research Section, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Ahmed S, Kehyayan V, Abdou M, Bougmiza I. Prevalence and determinants of health literacy among the adult population of Qatar. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1278614. [PMID: 38045973 PMCID: PMC10690364 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1278614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Health literacy (HL) is both a direct determinant and a mediator of health outcomes. Research on the prevalence and determinants of HL in terms of its functional, communicative, and critical domains is scarce in the state of Qatar and its surrounding regions. Thus, this study aims to fill the knowledge gap in this area, estimate the levels of functional, communicative, and critical health literacy among the general adult population, and identify its determinants in the state of Qatar. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study with a disproportionate stratified random sampling technique was conducted in 2022. A representative sample of phone numbers was obtained from the Cerner database at Hamad Medical Corporation and approached via well-trained data collectors. A socio-demographic and health-relevant factor questionnaire and the validated All Aspects of Health Literacy scale (AAHLS) were used to collect the data on functional, communicative, and critical HL and their determinants. Descriptive analysis, independent sample t-test, ANOVA, and linear regression were used and yielded the outcomes on HL levels as low, adequate, and high in percentages and the HL determinants. Results A total of 770 participants were included. The study found that 41.5%, 29.3%, and 29.2% of them have adequate, high, and low overall HL levels consecutively. People who participated in the study are older adult, are of Arabic ethnicity, are of Qatari ethnicity, have a lower level of education, have close relatives with a lower level of education, have a lower income, are non-migrants, are not living within a family, sought medical care within the last week, and who do not know if they have a chronic disease or do not have lower overall HL levels compared to the other groups. After linear regression analysis, only the participant's level of education and "last time sought medical care within last week" variable predict the overall HL score. Conclusion Almost half of Qatar's adult population has an adequate HL level, comparable to the HL levels in other regions, despite the limitation in comparison due to variation in context and the HL measurement tools used. The possible determinants are amenable factors to focus on while designing HL interventions and providing healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Ahmed
- Department of Community Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vahe Kehyayan
- College of Business Management, University of Doha for Science and Technology, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mariam Abdou
- Department of Community Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Iheb Bougmiza
- Department of Community Medicine, Primary Healthcare Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Binsaeed B, Aljohani FG, Alsobiai FF, Alraddadi M, Alrehaili AA, Alnahdi BS, Almotairi FS, Jumah MA, Alrehaili AT. Barriers and Motivators to Weight Loss in People With Obesity. Cureus 2023; 15:e49040. [PMID: 38116343 PMCID: PMC10729542 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obesity has become a global public health challenge with associated health risks. Effective weight-loss interventions are crucial to mitigating these risks and improving overall well-being. However, individuals with obesity often encounter various barriers that hinder their weight loss efforts, while specific motivators can drive them towards successful outcomes. This systematic review aimed to explore the barriers and motivators to weight loss in people with obesity. METHODS A literature search was conducted using relevant keywords in electronic databases such as PubMed, Medline, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals during the last 10 years were considered for inclusion. We included studies investigating both barriers and/or motivators to weight loss published in English. RESULTS The findings showed that motivators for weight loss include health concerns, body satisfaction, family support, normalcy restoration, emotional encouragement, self-determination, and mindful food choices. Motivators involve exercise facilities, balanced diets, and assistance from healthcare providers, peers, friends, or family. Gender influences healthcare providers' influence on weight loss, with women trusting providers more while men lean towards medication options. Healthcare providers play a role in impacting weight loss through discussions and educating patients. Age also influences motivators; adolescents emphasize health, self-esteem, and bullying avoidance, while young women focus on lifestyle influence, resources, and joy. Barriers include insufficient self-control, physical pain, time constraints, dietary restrictions, and a lack of support. Logistical issues, patient readiness, healthcare providers' views, resource scarcity, and social dynamics are also barriers. Dietary barriers involve triggers, emotional states, and limited healthy options. School-aged children with obesity face curriculum challenges and resource scarcity. CONCLUSION These findings show the intricate interplay between motivators and barriers, underscoring the multifaceted nature of weight loss in people with obesity. Targeted interventions that address these factors holistically are essential for successful weight management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alya A Alrehaili
- College of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Bushra S Alnahdi
- College of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
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Qadhi OA, Albothi GK, Fallatah R, Anazi M, Al-Rawi MBA, Syed W. Navigating Health Literacy and Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study on Nursing Undergraduates in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e941632. [PMID: 37751420 PMCID: PMC10541790 DOI: 10.12659/msm.941632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to assess the health literacy (HL) and health practices (HP) among nursing undergraduates at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in 2023 to assess how nursing students perceive HL and HP. HL is the ability of individuals to acquire, interpret, assess, and act on information to promote and maintain good health, while HP involves the application of knowledge and skills. HL was assessed using a total of 16 items, subdivided into 4 domains (understanding, evaluating, accessing, and utilizing health information) while HP was assessed using 11 items on a 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS In this study, 53.9% of the students were found to have poor HP, while 40.9% (n=166) reported moderate HP, and 5.2% (n=21) reported good HP. With regards to HL, 38.9% (n=158) of students were found to have good HL while 52.2% (n=212) reported moderate HL, and 8.9% (n=36) reported poor HL. The findings indicated that there was a relationship between age and HP, indicating that age is a major predictor of HP (P=0.001). Other comparisons, including year of study, income source, marital status, and the prevalence of chronic conditions, were discovered to have a significant relationship (P=0.001) with HP levels. CONCLUSIONS According to these findings, most students reported poor HP, while one-third claimed good HL. Therefore, there is a need to address the factors related to poor HP while also recommending methods to support good HP among students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omaimah A. Qadhi
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gada Khalid Albothi
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Fallatah
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Anazi
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmood Basil A. Al-Rawi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajid Syed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Alzayer R, Barakat M, Jirjees F, Alhamdan A, Aloraifej S, Cherri S, Mansour S, El Khatib S, Kharaba Z, Rahal M, Hallit S, Malaeb D, Hosseini H. Knowledge and awareness of stroke and associated factors in the Saudi general population: a cross-sectional study. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1225980. [PMID: 37808501 PMCID: PMC10552853 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1225980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Stroke is a major cause of death and disability globally and in Saudi Arabia as well. Prevention and management of stroke depend highly on raising knowledge and awareness about the disease. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate Saudi adult's knowledge and awareness about stroke and determine the associated factors. Materials and methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in May-July 2022 among Saudi citizens. Assessments of stroke knowledge about risk factors, symptoms, and response to stroke symptoms were evaluated. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between the socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge. Results A total of 389 participants were enrolled with the majority (81.7%) being male participants. Less than half of the study subjects (43.3%) identified four out of five correct answers related to general knowledge about stroke. Almost all the participants were able to identify at least one risk factor associated with stroke. The majority of the participants (81.2%) believed that physical inactivity was the most common risk factor associated with stroke. Approximately three-quarters of participants considered difficulty speaking and understanding speech, followed by the sudden loss of consciousness as the most common stroke manifestation. Participants with a history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity had significantly higher odds of identifying at least one early stroke symptom (OR 2.271 [95% CI 1.402 3.677], 2.059 [95% CI 1.273 3.328], and 2.665 [95% CI 1.431 4.963], respectively). Conclusion Our study revealed that participants have good knowledge about stroke. Nonetheless, further efforts are required to raise awareness and educate the public to optimize and ensure better treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Alzayer
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice, Mohammed Al-Mana College for Medical Sciences (MACHS), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
- MEU Research Unit, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Feras Jirjees
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Shatha Aloraifej
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice, Mohammed Al-Mana College for Medical Sciences (MACHS), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Cherri
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sara Mansour
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sami El Khatib
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
- Center for Applied Mathematics and Bioinformatics (CAMB), Gulf University for Science and Technology, Mubarak Al-Abdullah, Kuwait
| | - Zelal Kharaba
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal El Dib, Lebanon
| | - Diana Malaeb
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hassan Hosseini
- Neurology Department, Henri Mondor Hospital, AP-HP, Créteil, France
- INSERM U955-E01, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomedicale (IMRB), UPEC-Universite Paris-Est, Créteil, France
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Alhajri SM, Aljehani NM, El Dalatony MM, Alsuwayt SS, Alhumaidany TM, Aldossary MS. Patients' Satisfaction With the Quality of Services at Primary Healthcare Centers in Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e45066. [PMID: 37842386 PMCID: PMC10567608 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients' satisfaction is an essential indicator used to measure the quality of healthcare services. The evaluation of patients' satisfaction with primary healthcare center (PHC) visits is therefore essential when it comes to assessing the quality of healthcare services provided. AIM To assess patients' overall satisfaction with the quality of services provided at PHCs in different regions of Saudi Arabia. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data collected from 2,390 PHCs in different regions of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected by the Patient Experience Measurement Program in the Ministry of Health (MOH) using the Press Ganey Survey from January 2022 to December 2022. The Press Ganey Survey is a standardized tool used by the Saudi MOH to assess patients' satisfaction with the health services provided in different specialties and healthcare facilities. The assessment tool (Press Ganey survey) involves six domains (Access, Moving through, Nurse, Care provider, Personal issue, and Overall assessment). The data were tabulated and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). RESULTS In total, there were 536,406 study participants, with their mean age being 28.7±21.1. The overall patients' satisfaction score was 4.2 out of 5 (83.8%). Male participants reported more satisfaction with PHC services than did females (86.6%, 81%), respectively. The domain with the highest patients' satisfaction scores was that of the Care provider (84.8%), while the domain with the lowest rating was Moving through (82.8%). CONCLUSION This baseline study found that patients were generally satisfied, with the highest levels of satisfaction with their care providers, highlighting the crucial role of professionals in the patient experience. Further research is recommended to give a more in-depth analysis and thus highlight additional correlating and predicted elements of patients' satisfaction with PHC treatments in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahad M Alhajri
- Research and Studies General Department, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Najla M Aljehani
- Public Health Department, College of Health Sciences, The Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Mervat M El Dalatony
- Research and Studies General Department, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, SAU
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, EGY
| | - Saleh S Alsuwayt
- Family Medicine Department, King Saud Medical City, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, SAU
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Alqarni AS, Pasay-An E, Saguban R, Cabansag D, Gonzales F, Alkubati S, Villareal S, Lagura GAL, Alshammari SA, Aljarboa BE, Mostoles R. Relationship between the Health Literacy and Self-Medication Behavior of Primary Health Care Clientele in the Hail Region, Saudi Arabia: Implications for Public Health. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2023; 13:1043-1057. [PMID: 37366784 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe13060080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Because they are unaware of the potential adverse effects of medications, people frequently self-medicate as a form of self-care. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with health literacy and the propensity to self-medicate among the primary healthcare clientele of the city of Hail, Saudi Arabia. METHODS This research employed a cross-sectional approach with the participation of 383 primary health center clientele of the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia. Participation was enacted via convenience sampling from December 2022 to February 2023. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The investigation utilized descriptive statistics as well as multiple linear regression and correlation for the data analysis. RESULTS Participants who were aged 30 years and above, single, had a college degree, were non-Saudi, had a white-collar occupation and received information from the internet/Google/YouTube had a significant relationship (p < 0.05) with health literacy. On the self-medication scale (SMS), there were significant relationships with age, marital status, educational level and occupation (p < 0.05). The nationality and source of information factors related to health had a positively significant effect on health literacy (p < 0.01), while middle age (24-29 years) had a positive effect on the self-medication scores (p < 0.01). There was a significant positive correlation between the health literacy screening scale (BRIEF) and the self-medication scale (SMS) scores (r = 421, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Age of 30 years old or above, single status, a college degree, non-Saudi status, white-collar occupation and receiving information from the internet/Google/YouTube were all significant for health literacy. There were also significant relationships with the SMS scores for age, marital status, educational level and occupation. The factors affecting health literacy were older participant age, nationality and the source of information regarding health. Conversely, among the participants, being in the middle-aged group (24-29 years) was a factor that affected their self-medication scores. There was a significant positive correlation between the health literacy screening scale (BRIEF) and the self-medication scale (SMS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidah Sanad Alqarni
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, King Khalid University, Abha 62521, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eddieson Pasay-An
- Maternal and Child Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reynita Saguban
- College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 81491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dolores Cabansag
- College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 81491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ferdinand Gonzales
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, King Khalid University, Abha 62521, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sameer Alkubati
- Medical Surgical Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sandro Villareal
- College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 81491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Grace Ann Lim Lagura
- Maternal and Child Nursing Department, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 2440, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Romeo Mostoles
- College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail 81491, Saudi Arabia
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Al Jeraisy M, Alshammari H, Albassam M, Al Aamer K, Abolfotouh MA. Utility of patient information leaflet and perceived impact of its use on medication adherence. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:488. [PMID: 36918823 PMCID: PMC10012310 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15346-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patients frequently use patient information leaflets (PILs) to obtain information about medicine, their confidence in using it may be diminished after reading it. This study aimed to assess the public perception of PIL's quality and the perceived impact of its use on medication adherence. METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study of 1,138 adult individuals in Saudi Arabia, April-May 2020, was conducted via Survey Monkey using an anonymous validated e-questionnaire. Data were collected on personal characteristics, PIL readership and preferences, perception towards PIL quality and impact of its use on taking medication, and reasons for not reading PIL. In addition, logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the significant predictors of reading PIL. Significance was considered at p < 0.05. RESULTS Nearly all participants (91.1%) reported reading PIL. The more read PIL's sections were directions of use (52.7%) and side effects (30.3%). Female gender (OR = 5.64, 95%CI: 3.53,9.02), age over 40 years (OR = 2.80, 95%CI: 1.69,4.64), and secondary education or more (OR = 1.74, 95%CI: 1.06,2.85) were the significant predictors of reading PIL. The majority of PIL readers reported their preference for verbal information (65.8%), hard copy presentation (77%), adding graphics (71.1%), and concise content of PIL (68.8%). In addition, most participants reported PIL always/usually adds to their knowledge of medicines (70.6%) and said that PIL reading positively impacted their medication adherence (64.9%). For only 8.8%, PIL reading negatively impacted their adherence, primarily because of reading information on medicine's side effects and complications (74.4%). More than one-half of participants perceived the PIL quality as good/excellent in terms of; font size (51.3%), language comprehensiveness (64.9%), paper quality (68.0%), and general appearance (64.9%). Getting sufficient information from doctors and pharmacists was the main reason for not reading the PIL (59.2%). Most participants (92.5%) agreed on standardizing how information is displayed in the PIL among all PILs of all companies. CONCLUSION PIL is read by nearly all the study sample, especially females, older, and educated subjects. It was perceived as beneficial in upgrading medication adherence. Effective designing of PILs should focus on patients' literacy level and age. Standardization of the PIL structure in all pharmaceutical companies is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majed Al Jeraisy
- grid.412149.b0000 0004 0608 0662King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud Bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- grid.412149.b0000 0004 0608 0662College of Pharmacy, King Saud Bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- grid.416641.00000 0004 0607 2419Pharmaceutical Care, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba Alshammari
- grid.56302.320000 0004 1773 5396King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Kholoud Al Aamer
- grid.416641.00000 0004 0607 2419Pharmaceutical Care, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mostafa A. Abolfotouh
- grid.412149.b0000 0004 0608 0662King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud Bin-Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Alkhaldi G, Aljohani N, Hussain SD, Alfawaz HA, Hameidi A, Saadawy GM, Elsaid MA, Alharbi M, Sabico S, Al-Daghri NM. General Public's Knowledge of Diabetes and Physical Activity in Saudi Arabia over Time: The Need to Refresh Awareness Campaigns. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11030286. [PMID: 36766861 PMCID: PMC9913913 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major health issue in Saudi Arabia. Prevention of DM and its complications requires an understanding of the disease and modifiable behaviors (e.g., physical activity-PA). The purpose of this study was to examine the trends in knowledge of the general population regarding DM to better understand the shortcomings in the current awareness programs. This article presents a cross-sectional series study where a survey was distributed to a total of 3493 participants over four years, from 2017 till 2020, to assess general knowledge about DM, including information about PA. The mean percentage of correct responses of DM general knowledge was 63.8 ± 19.0 in 2017, which decreased to 61.3 ± 18.7 in 2020 with a significant beta coefficient of -0.8 ± 0.2 (p < 0.001). Participants' awareness about PA remained constantly high for four years: the mean percentage of correct responses was 82.1 ± 23.6 in 2017 and 82.0 ± 23.1 in 2020, and the beta coefficient was -0.5 ± 0.3 (p = 0.147). Furthermore, stratification by demographics showed that the majority of the subgroups (age, sex, educational status, marital status, having relative with DM, nationality) reported a significant declining trend in general DM knowledge. In addition, some of the subgroups also showed a declining trend in PA awareness. Future prevention efforts should assess the community's DM knowledge regularly to tailor awareness efforts to the population segments that need heightened educational interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghadah Alkhaldi
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naji Aljohani
- Obesity Endocrine and Metabolism Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 11525, Saudi Arabia
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Danish Hussain
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hanan A. Alfawaz
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Food Science and Agriculture, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Gamal M. Saadawy
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed A. Elsaid
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alharbi
- Diabetes Centres and Units Administration, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 11176, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaun Sabico
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser M. Al-Daghri
- Biochemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-114675939; Fax: +966-114675931
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Alahmadi YM. Evaluation of Health Literacy and Associated Factors Among Adults Living in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2023; 60:469580231161428. [PMID: 36932856 PMCID: PMC10026131 DOI: 10.1177/00469580231161428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
In this westernized culture, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become a major health concern internationally. Health literacy is an emerging concept and requires effective measures and reform to improve the health status and health of individuals at both national and international levels, and has become one of the important determinants of individual health and healthcare service. This study aimed to assess health literacy among adults in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among a randomly selected population using a structured validated questionnaire over 4 months in 2021. The questionnaires designed for the study included 26 items divided into 5 domains assessed on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26 (IBM Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) and IBM SPSS 26 (IBM Inc.). The mean score for reading, access to information, understanding, appraisal, and decision-making was 12.01 ± 4.37, 20.16 ± 7.17, 24.84 ± 8.37, 11.85 ± 4.90, and 36.94 ± 10.41 respectively. The mean scores of reading and understanding domains were found to have significant differences concerning gender (P < .05). Additionally, participants' age was significantly associated with the mean score of reading and decision-making (P < .006 and P < .049). The findings reported a prevalence of inadequate HL in the population of Saudi Arabia was 54.4%, and the determinants associated with the scores of HL were age, gender, and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaser M Alahmadi
- Department of Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah, Saudi Arabia
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Algabbani AM, Alzahrani SA, Almomen SM, Hafiz RA. Readability of information imprinted in patient information leaflets (PILs) in Saudi Arabia: The case of antihypertensive medications. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 8:100179. [PMID: 36177271 PMCID: PMC9513263 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2022.100179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) requires marketing authorization holders to submit a PIL in both Arabic and English language. However, the readability of imprinted and disseminated Patient information leaflets (PILs) was not assessed extensively in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to assess the readability of PIL of antihypertensive drugs in both Arabic and English languages. Method This study was a descriptive quantitative analysis conducted in Saudi Arabia in August 2021. PILs of all oral antihypertensive medications in Saudi Arabia were included in the study. The Arabic and English PILs were extracted from the Saudi Drugs Information System (SDI) and pharmaceutical companies' registration documents. The study used Flesch-Kincaid grade level to assess the readability of English and sentence length to assess the Arabic texts. Descriptive analyses were used to assess the readability scores and the mean differences. Results It was found that almost 88% of English PILs were above recommended readability level compared to 79% of Arabic PILs. About 89% of English PILs of generic and 86% of brand-name medications were above the readability cutoff point compared with 83% of Arabic PILs of generic and 68% of brand-name medications. The means of grade level for readability of PILs for the widely used antihypertensive medications including angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), antiadrenergic, diuretics, Beta-blockers (BBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and combination antihypertensive medications, and CCBs were higher than the recommended readability level (p < 0.05). The highest mean grade level for readability among English PILs was for combinations of antihypertensive agents (9.35 ± 1.38, p 0.01) and among Arabic PILs was for ARBs (6.15 ± 1.62, p < 0.01). Conclusions The majority of PILs of antihypertensive medications were above the recommended readability level that can be understood by the majority of the public, especially among generic medications and the most widely used antihypertensive medications. The study findings highlight the need of implementing guidelines to improve the readability of information imprinted in PILs and adopt new regulations requiring readability assessment for manufactures before submitting the PILs to the SFDA.
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Yacoub M, Rosengren K, D’emeh W. Experience and Educational Needs of Arab Parental Caregivers Regarding their Children Newly Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Study. HOME HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/10848223221134129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is a common chronic health condition in children that necessitates close monitoring and care. Parents face numerous challenges when caring for children with T1DM, particularly at home owing to self-care. There is little information available about Arab parents’ experiences and educational needs when caring for children with TIDM. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences and educational needs of Arab parental caregivers in Saudi Arabia who live with and care for children diagnosed with T1DM. An inductive qualitative descriptive design was used in this study. The data were amassed over a 4 month period through audio-recorded semi-structured interviews with 16 Arab parents of children aged 18 years and under who had been diagnosed with T1DM within the previous 6 months. Data were analyzed through a qualitative content analysis. The results could be classified into 3 categories related to the parents’ experience of caring for a child newly diagnosed with T1DM and their educational needs and can be described as follows: (1) management of uncertainty regarding T1DM; (2) management of new daily life situations; and (3) self-care management within the family. The Arab parents of children with T1DM accentuated the need for continuous professional support to manage uncertainty due to changes in everyday life situations. The findings confirmed the significance of culturally and contextually relevant education regarding T1DM for parents, children, and school personnel. Educational interventions and support in the community are recommended to improve daily life situations for families and children with T1DM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristina Rosengren
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, Mölndal, Sweden
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Nair SC, Sreedharan J, Satish KP, Ibrahim H. Health literacy in a high income Arab country: A nation-wide cross-sectional survey study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275579. [PMID: 36197929 PMCID: PMC9534436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health literacy is a powerful predictor of health outcomes, but remains a global challenge. There is a paucity of published data and limited understanding of the health literacy of patients in the Middle East. The purpose of this study was to assess the patient health literacy levels in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and identify associated demographic characteristics. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of adult patients attending public and private hospitals and primary care clinics was conducted across the UAE between January 2019 and May 2020. Chi-square test was used to analyze the association between health literacy and demographic variables. Ordinal regression was adopted to analyze the data for statistically significant independent variables. RESULTS 2349 of 2971 patients responded (79% response rate). Slightly less than one-quarter (23.9%) of patients surveyed demonstrated adequate health literacy. Over a third of women respondents (31.7%) possessed adequate health literacy, as compared to only 13% of men surveyed (p<0.001). Participant age was significantly (p<0.001) associated with health literacy levels, with approximately 50% of participants above age 50 years (51-75 years) demonstrating inadequate health literacy. Education was also positively correlated with health literacy. Adequate health literacy levels were twofold higher (30.5%, p<0.001) in patients with high school education, as compared to patients without secondary education. CONCLUSIONS The high proportion of patients with inadequate health literacy in our study confirms that the health literacy deficit is a challenge in the UAE. Targeted interventions are needed to improve health literacy, particularly for older individuals, to optimize healthcare utilization and improve individual and population health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Chandrasekhar Nair
- Department of Academic Affairs, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jayadevan Sreedharan
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Halah Ibrahim
- Khalifa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- * E-mail:
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22
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Aljabri D, Albinali H. Public awareness and use of 997 emergency medical service phone number during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:937202. [PMID: 36262224 PMCID: PMC9574394 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.937202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Emergency medical services (EMSs) are an important element of the healthcare system as it provides an opportunity to respond to critical medical conditions and save people's lives. In Saudi Arabia, EMS is offered via the EMS phone number "997" and mobile application "Asefny". Methods This was an observational cross-sectional survey study exploring public awareness and use of the EMS phone number during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. A bivariate analysis was performed to investigate factors affecting awareness and use of the EMS phone number and to compare the EMS acceptance to transport and timelines of ambulance arrival between requests made via the "997" EMS phone number and the "Asefny" mobile application during the country's emergency lockdown. Results A total of 805 participants were included in the analysis, where 66% reported awareness of the EMS phone number and 75% of them accurately identified the nature of the service provided by dialing the number. The men who participated, those with a bachelor's degree, with children, and with chronic conditions were more aware of the EMS phone number compared to the other participants. Of the total sample, 46.7% used EMS phone numbers at least one time (ever users). During the COVID-19 lockdown, the EMS accepted to transport 87% of the calls made by 997 phone number and 56.2% of the mobile application requests (P < 0.00). The ambulance arrived in ≤ 8 min in 53.6% of the 997 phone calls and 35.5% of the Asefny mobile requests (P < 0.00). Conclusions Findings showed commendable levels of awareness and the use of EMS phone numbers. However, the results suggest room for improvement by developing promotional and educational campaigns inspired by the factors identified as influential on both awareness and use. Mobile applications in EMS are promising to improve prehospital emergency service accessibility, which needs to be further investigated to assess its impact on the public health informatics experience.
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Alluhaibi BA, Awadalla AW. Attitudes and stigma toward seeking psychological help among Saudi Adults. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:216. [PMID: 36109773 PMCID: PMC9479300 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00923-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), public attitudes and stigma toward mental health illness seem to prevent people from seeking psychological help, which negatively impacts an individual's life. The primary objective of this study was to investigate people's attitudes toward seeking psychological help and identify the extent to which the associated stigma is responsible for preventing them from seeking psychological help.
Methods
Two hundred eighteen adults recruited from the community living in the Eastern Province of the KSA completed the questionnaires, customized to create the Arabic version of Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale-Short Form (ATSPPH-SF-A), the Arabic version of Stigma Scale for Receiving Psychological Help (SSRPH-A), and the Arabic version of Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25-A).
Results
Both stigma and psychological distress significantly affected attitudes toward seeking professional help. Furthermore, it indicated that attitudes were negatively correlated with stigma while positively correlated with psychological distress. No significant difference in attitudes toward psychological help-seeking was identified between male and female participants. However, males displayed higher levels of stigma, while females showed greater psychological distress. Furthermore, the groups who received psychological treatment demonstrated more favorable attitudes toward seeking psychological help.
Conclusion
Stigma and psychological stress influence attitudes toward treatment-seeking behavior for mental illness, making them two major predictors responsible for the underutilization of mental health services. More research is needed to assess specific sociodemographic disparities across more data sources and the factors that further contribute to stigma and psychological distress.
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Singh H, Kolschen J, Samkange-Zeeb F, Brand T, Zeeb H, Schüz B. Modifiable predictors of health literacy in working-age adults - a rapid review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1450. [PMID: 35906567 PMCID: PMC9338662 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13851-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health literacy comprises the ability to identify, obtain, interpret and act upon health information. Low health literacy is a major risk factor for hospitalizations, use of emergency care and premature mortality among others. Known risk factors for low health literacy such as lower educational attainment, migration history and chronic illnesses overlap with those for long-term unemployment - in itself a risk factor for low health literacy. These factors are difficult to address in interventions to support health literacy. Therefore, the objective of this review is to identify potentially modifiable predictors of HL in populations potentially affected by long-term unemployment. METHODS A rapid review (PROSPERO registration number: 290873) was carried out in Pubmed and SCOPUS including quantitative studies on potentially modifiable predictors of health literacy in working-age populations following PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews. Where possible, reported effect sizes were transformed into r, and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted where appropriate to pool effect sizes for the association between modifiable predictors and health literacy. RESULTS In total, 4765 titles and abstracts were screened, 114 articles were assessed in full-text screening, and 54 were included in the review. Forty-one effect sizes were considered for 9 different meta-analyses. Higher language proficiency, higher frequency of internet use, using the internet as a source of health information more often, being more physically active, more oral health behaviours, watching more health-related TV and a good health status were significantly associated with higher health literacy. Significant heterogeneity suggests between-study differences. CONCLUSIONS Improving language proficiency and/or providing information in multiple and simplified languages, together with reliable and accessible health information on the internet and in linear media are potentially promising targets to improve health literacy levels in working-age populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunny Singh
- Institute of Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Jonathan Kolschen
- Institute of Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Florence Samkange-Zeeb
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Tilman Brand
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Hajo Zeeb
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Schüz
- Institute of Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
- Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
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Moafa HN, van Kuijk SM, Moukhyer ME, Alqahtani DM, Haak HR. Variation in on-scene time of emergency medical services and the extent of the difference of on-scene time between genders: a retrospective population-based registry study in Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e052481. [PMID: 35296475 PMCID: PMC8928325 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the intergender variation of on-scene time (OST) for highly urgent emergency cases conveyed by emergency medical services (EMS) in Saudi Arabia and to assess other predictors of OST and hypothesise for possible factors delaying OST. DESIGN A retrospective population-based registry study. SETTING Riyadh Province is the largest province in terms of population and the second in terms of geographical area. PARTICIPANTS All highly urgent transported patients from the scene to emergency departments, be they medical emergencies or trauma emergencies during 2018. OUTCOME MEASURE OST difference between men and women transported by EMS. RESULTS In total, 21 878 patients were included for analysis: 33.9% women and 66.1% men. The median OST for women was 22 min (IQR 15-30) and 18 min (IQR 11-26) for men (p<0.001); for medical cases, median OST was 23 min (IQR 16-31) for women compared with 20 min (IQR 13 - 29) for men (p<0.001); for trauma cases, the median OST of both sexes was equal. We found the following additional predictors of OST: factors of emergency type, sex, age category, geographical areas, type of ambulance vehicle and hospital type were all significantly associated with OST in the crude or adjusted analyses. Factors of emergency type, sex, age category, geographical areas, type of ambulance vehicle and hospital type were also significantly associated with the odds of OST of more than 15 min in the crude and adjusted regression analyses. CONCLUSIONS The median OST was longer than 15 min for more than half of transported cases. For medical cases, women had a longer median OST than men. Additional predictors associated with prolonged OST were the patient's age, area (ie, urban vs rural), type of ambulance vehicle and season. These findings are hypothesis generating and require further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan N Moafa
- Health Services Management, Jazan University Faculty of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Health Services Research, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Sander Mj van Kuijk
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mohammed E Moukhyer
- Emergency Medical Services, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Public Health Programmes, School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Dhafer M Alqahtani
- Saudi Red Crescent Authority, Department of Innovation and Development, Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Harm R Haak
- Health Services Research, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Maxima Medical Centre, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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Moussa ML, Moussa FL, Alharbi HA, Omer T, Sofiany HA, Almuzaini TM, Alsaady ES, Alrashede SM. Association of Fear of COVID-19 and Health Literacy Among the General Public in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Assessment. Front Public Health 2022; 9:740625. [PMID: 35127609 PMCID: PMC8815726 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.740625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aims to determine the level of fear of coronavirus disease—2019 (COVID-19) among the general public in Saudi Arabia and the association of its scores with their level of health literacy. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population in Saudi Arabia from April 2020 to May 2020. A three-part online self-reported survey was used to assess the participants' demographic characteristics, fear of COVID-19 of the participants, and levels of health literacy. Results Of the 848 participants, 56.8% were in the age group of 25–34, 45.6% were females, and 57.1% had a bachelor's degree. The total mean score of the fear of COVID-19 scale of the participants was FCoV-19: mean ± SD = 19.60 ± 7.33 and the health literacy was HL index: mean ± SD = 27.57 ± 11.05. There was a significant difference in the scores of fear of COVID-19 scale in terms of age (F = 2.442, p = 0.050), representing that those aged 45 and above had higher mean fear scores than the younger participants. The analysis revealed that an increased level of fear of COVID-19 was associated with older age (B = 1.87; p = 0.020), being unemployed (B = 0.76; p = 0.023), with no formal education (B = 0.89; p = 0.001), and low level of health literacy (B = 0.02; p = 0.021). Conclusion The study shows an above-average level of fear of COVID-19 of the general public in Saudi Arabia and its association with a low level of functional health literacy. Timely and comprehensive health interventions should be promoted to enhance the level of health literacy and further reduce the level of fear of COVID-19 in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatchima Laouali Moussa
- College of Nursing, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Fatchima Laouali Moussa
| | | | - Tagwa Omer
- College of Nursing, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Alshareef N, Yunusa I, Al-Hanawi MK. The Influence of COVID-19 Information Sources on the Attitudes and Practices Toward COVID-19 Among the General Public of Saudi Arabia: Cross-sectional Online Survey Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2021; 7:e28888. [PMID: 34081610 PMCID: PMC8330635 DOI: 10.2196/28888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in panic among the general public, leading many people to seek out information related to COVID-19 through various sources, including social media and traditional media. Identifying public preferences for obtaining such information may help health authorities to effectively plan successful health preventive and educational intervention strategies. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the types of sources used for obtaining COVID-19 information on the attitudes and practices of the general public in Saudi Arabia during the pandemic, and to identify the socioeconomic and demographic factors associated with the use of different sources of information. METHODS This study used data from a cross-sectional online survey conducted on residents of Saudi Arabia from March 20 to 24, 2020. Data were analyzed using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Bivariate analysis of categorical variables was performed to determine the associations between information sources and socioeconomic and demographic factors. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to examine whether socioeconomic and demographic variables were associated with the source of information used to obtain information about COVID-19. Moreover, univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine how sources of information influence attitudes and practices of adhering to preventive measures. RESULTS In this analysis of cross-sectional survey data, 3358 participants were included. Most participants reported using social media, followed by the Ministry of Health (MOH) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as their primary source of information. Seeking information via social media was significantly associated with lower odds of having an optimistic attitude (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.845, 95% CI 0.733-0.974; P=.02) and adhering to preventive measures (aOR 0.725, 95% CI 0.630-0.835; P<.001) compared to other sources of information. Participants who obtained their COVID-19 information via the MOH had greater odds of having an optimistic attitude (aOR 1.437, 95% CI 1.234-1.673; P<.001) and adhering to preventive measures (aOR 1.393, 95% CI 1.201-1.615; P<.001) than those who obtained information via other sources. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that different sources of information influence attitudes and preventive actions differently within a pandemic crisis context. Health authorities in Saudi Arabia should pay attention to the use of appropriate social media channels and sources to allow for more effective dissemination of critical information to the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Alshareef
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Health Economics Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ismaeel Yunusa
- College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Mohammed Khaled Al-Hanawi
- Department of Health Services and Hospital Administration, Faculty of Economics and Administration, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Health Economics Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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