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Abdelrahman H, Qadire MA, Zehry H. Reliability and Validity of the Arabic Version of the Short Form Supportive Care Needs Survey Questionnaire (SCNS-SF34-A). Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151646. [PMID: 38735783 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151646] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34 (SCNS-SF34-A) among heterogonous group of cancer patients. METHOD This was a multicenter, prospective, descriptive-correlational survey that included 297 cancer patients recruited from two hospitals. The tool construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability were evaluated. RESULTS The participants comprised 60.6% females, with ages ranging from 18 to 82 years. The majority were married (71.7%) and had mainly breast cancer (28.3%). Exploratory factor analysis supported a four-factor structure that are: health system information and patient support domain, psychological domain, physical and daily living domain, and sexuality domain. This tool explained 64.2% of the variance. The SCNS-SF34-A demonstrated excellent internal consistency for the whole scale (Cronbach's alpha = 0.954) and high test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.954) for the subscales (Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.82 to 0.95 and ICC ranged from 0.950 to 0.960. CONCLUSION SCNS-SF34-A exhibits robust psychometric properties and holds promise for enhancing cancer care in the Arab world, contributing to a more tailored and effective approach to addressing patients' supportive care needs. The four-factor structure aligns with international studies, emphasizing the nuanced nature of variations. Further validation in diverse Arabic-speaking populations and the exploration of additional forms of validity are recommended. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE The SCNS-SF34-A presents a reliable, culturally adapted, and sensitive assessment tool for the diverse supportive care needs of cancer patients in Oman and the Arab world. It contributes to the improvement of the quality of cancer care and patient-centered approach in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan Abdelrahman
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Oman; Faculty of Nursing, Suez Canal University, Egypt; Principles and Practice of Clinical Research, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - Mohammad Al Qadire
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Oman; Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, Mafraq, Jordan
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Al-Sayegh H, Al-Zadjali S, Al-Moundhri M. Analyzing Cancer Incidence Trends in Oman From 1996 to 2019: A Comprehensive Study of the National Cancer Annual Reports. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300337. [PMID: 38271648 PMCID: PMC10830084 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies have reported that cancer incidence trends in Oman varied by tumor site and sex. No comprehensive analysis of all cancer sites had been reported. The objective of this study is to analyze cancer incidence trends in Oman and calculate the annual percent change (APC) in age-standardized rates (ASRs) for all-cancer and 61 individual cancer sites in Omani men and women from 1996 to 2019. METHODS We gathered incidence data from The Omani National Cancer Registry for all cancers combined and individual tumor sites. We estimated the APC using Poisson regression. RESULTS The cancer ASR in the Omani population increased by 23% (from 95/100,000 in 1996 to 117.2/100,000 in 2019), with the increase being more pronounced in females (48% v 7% in males). Among the male population, there was significant increase in the ASRs of colon, rectum, thyroid, and prostate cancers, with APCs of 6.92%, 4.24%, 4.19%, and 2.03%, respectively. Among females, all-cancer incidence showed significant increase (APC = 1.39%), and increasing trends were observed in uterine, colon, rectum, thyroid, and breast cancers (APCs = 7.57%, 7.08%, 5.19%, 5.16%, and 4.19%, respectively). CONCLUSION The ASR of all-cancer increased significantly in Omani women but not in men. Uterine cancer had the highest APC. Colorectal cancer and thyroid ASR increased in both males and females. Breast and prostate cancers showed increasing trends. Further research is needed to explore factors contributing to increasing cancer incidences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Al-Sayegh
- Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center (SQCCCRC), Muscat, Oman
| | - Shoaib Al-Zadjali
- Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center (SQCCCRC), Muscat, Oman
| | - Mansour Al-Moundhri
- Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Center (SQCCCRC), Muscat, Oman
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Al-Fahdi A, Chan MF, Al-Siyabi W, Al-Yafai E, Al-Khatri M, Al-Azri M. Prevalence of psychological distress and associated factors among Omani women diagnosed with breast cancer: a single-centre, cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e073967. [PMID: 37734894 PMCID: PMC10514623 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of psychological distress (ie, anxiety and depressive symptoms) among Omani women diagnosed with breast cancer (BC) and to investigate associations with socio-demographic factors. DESIGN A cross-sectional, self-administered survey was conducted between September 2021 and June 2022. SETTING Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre (Muscat, Oman). PARTICIPANTS Adult Omani women diagnosed with BC during the study period. OUTCOME MEASURES Data regarding anxiety and depressive symptoms were collected using an Arabic version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Socio-demographic and clinical information was obtained from the participants and their hospital medical records. RESULTS 190 Omani women diagnosed with BC were invited to participate in the study, of whom 171 participated (response rate: 90.0%). The mean age was 50.3±10.9 years. 52.3% of participants had been diagnosed with BC at stages III or IV and 28.9% had metastasis. 29 women (17.0%) exhibited depressive symptoms (HADS-D score: ≥8), while 37 (21.6%) exhibited anxiety symptoms (HADS-A score: ≥8). Women with anxiety symptoms were almost 15-times more likely to have depressive symptoms than those without anxiety symptoms (OR: 14.87, p<0.001). Younger women were less likely to exhibit depressive symptoms than older women (≤39 vs ≥60 years, p=0.050; 40-59 vs ≥60 years, p=0.005). Women at the school/diploma education level were less likely to have depressive symptoms than those at college/university level (OR: 0.19, p=0.017). CONCLUSIONS More than half of the women surveyed had been diagnosed at an advanced stage, with up to 21.6% presenting with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Healthcare professionals in Oman should consider additional screening for anxiety and depressive symptoms in this group and encourage patients with BC to disclose emotional information during consultations, particularly for those aged ≥60 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Al-Fahdi
- Holistic Care, Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre, Muscat, Oman
| | - Moon Fai Chan
- Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Wedad Al-Siyabi
- Holistic Care, Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre, Muscat, Oman
| | - Entesar Al-Yafai
- Holistic Care, Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Care and Research Centre, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mariya Al-Khatri
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mohammed Al-Azri
- Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Muliira JK, Lazarus ER, Mirafuentes EC. A Countrywide Assessment of Omani Undergraduate Nursing Students' Palliative Care Knowledge and Attitudes Towards End-of-Life Care. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2023; 38:781-788. [PMID: 35624358 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-022-02184-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Palliative care (PC) is a vital part of the responses needed to address the outcomes of cancer and other non-communicable diseases such as chronic pain, terminal illnesses, and end-of-life situations. Until today, there is a significant lack of access to PC in most developing countries, where the majority of the global population lives. Deficiencies in nurses' knowledge and attitudes exacerbate the lack of access to PC and end-of-life care (EOLC) in these countries. This study was conducted in Oman to assess undergraduate nursing students' (NS) PC knowledge and attitudes towards EOLC. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 276 NS in all undergraduate programs in Oman. The PC knowledge and attitude towards EOLC were measured using the PEACE-Q and FATCOD-B. The NS had a borderline level of PC knowledge but favorable attitudes towards EOLC. The NS were least knowledgeable about the philosophy of PC, delirium, side effects of opioids, cancer pain, and dyspnea. There were differences in PC knowledge and attitudes across programs. The findings highlight potential deficiencies and opportunities that can be utilized to augment future nursing human resources for PC and EOLC in Oman. We recommend a national interdisciplinary PC education and training consortium (NIPCET-C) to dialogue, develop, promote, monitor, and evaluate PC and EOLC education in Oman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua K Muliira
- School of Nursing, Ball State University, 2000 W University Ave, Muncie, IN, 47306, USA.
| | - Eilean R Lazarus
- Department of Adult Health & Critical Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khod, 123, P. O. Box 66, Muscat, Oman
| | - Ephraim C Mirafuentes
- Department of Adult Health & Critical Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khod, 123, P. O. Box 66, Muscat, Oman
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Al-Hosni K, Chan MF, Al-Azri M. Effectiveness of an Educational Program on Awareness of Breast Cancer Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Barriers to Seeking Medical Help among Adolescent Omani School Students-An Interventional Study. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:4126-4138. [PMID: 37185427 PMCID: PMC10137335 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30040314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Women in Oman and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are usually diagnosed with BC at a younger age and more advanced stage, with poor five-year survival. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of breast cancer (BC) related educational programs among female Omani adolescents. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six female-only public schools were randomly selected from three governorates of Oman and assigned to the control or interventional group. An Arabic version of the Breast Cancer Awareness Measure questionnaire was used to evaluate students attending grades 10 and 11 at baseline (T0) and after 4 weeks (T1). After T0, the intervention group participated in a one-hour BC education program involving group discussions, a slideshow presentation, leaflets, and online access to program materials and videos. Non-parametric tests were used to compare scores between intervention and control groups and within each group across time (T0 vs. T1). RESULTS A total of 1106 students participated, of which 547 (49.5%) and 559 (50.5%) were allocated to the control and intervention groups, respectively. Recognition of BC risk factors (Z = 18.67; p < 0.001) and symptoms (Z = 20.01; p < 0.001) increased significantly in the intervention group between T0 and T1 and compared to the control group at T1 (U = 27.27; p < 0.001, and U = 25.75; p < 0.001, respectively). Anticipated time to seeking medical help (Z = 18.67; p < 0.001) and barriers to help-seeking (Z = 7.91; p < 0.001) decreased significantly between T0 and T1 in the intervention group and compared to the control group at T1 (U = 15.78; p < 0.001, and U = 3.44; p = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION The program increased knowledge of BC risk factors and symptoms and promoted early medical help-seeking among Omani female adolescents. Healthcare strategic planners and policy-makers in Oman and low- and middle-income countries should consider incorporating cancer education programs in the national school curriculum to minimize delays in BC diagnosis and improve the survival rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Al-Hosni
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
| | - Mohammed Al-Azri
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat 123, Oman
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Early Onset Colorectal Cancer in Arabs, Are We Dealing with a Distinct Disease? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030889. [PMID: 36765846 PMCID: PMC9913248 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030889] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) incidence is increasing worldwide. Efforts are directed to understand the biological and clinical signatures of EOCRC compared to late-onset colorectal cancer (LOCRC). EOCRC is thought to present differently across different ethnic groups and geographical regions. This study was an attempt to contribute with data from the Arab world toward the understanding of the clinicopathological parameters of EOCRC compared to LOCRC. Data from 254 CRC patients diagnosed at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital from the period 2015-2020 were studied. About 32.6% of all diagnosed CRC patients are below 50 years old, with no differences in gender distribution between EOCRC and LOCRC (p-value 0.417). Rectal involvement and tumor laterality were comparable among the two groups. Adenocarcinoma accounts for 83.3% and 94.2% of EOCRC and LOCRC, respectively. More mucinous and signet ring adenocarcinoma (8.3% each) were reported in EOCRC than LOCRC (2.9% and 2.2%, respectively). MLH1 and PMS2 loss are more common among LOCRC, but MSH6 loss is more frequent in EOCRC. The overall survival of EOCRC and LOCRC was comparable (median survival 64.88 and 67.24 months, respectively). This study showed comparable clinicopathological parameters between EOCRC and LOCRC from Arabs, which adds to the bigger picture of understand the disease.
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Al Qadire M, Ballad CAC, Aljezawi M, Al Omari O, Alaloul F, Musa A, Al Sabei S, Khalaf A. Nurses' knowledge of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia and its management: a cross-sectional survey. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04140-9. [PMID: 35819525 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04140-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (CIN) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess nurses' level of knowledge of CIN and its association with socio-demographic factors. METHODS A cross-sectional survey design was used. RESULTS Participants had a mean age of 34.1 years (SD = 7.1 years) and were predominantly female (78%) and with a bachelor's degree in nursing (95.6%). The nurses had a moderate level of knowledge about neutropenia and its management (mean total score 16.3 out of 30, SD = 3.7). Those who had a post-graduate degree (P = .048), had received an oncology educational course (P = .011), had attended a course on neutropenia (P = .007), who were working in an oncology unit (P = .002), and had more oncology experience (P = 001) were more likely to have a higher level of knowledge of CIN and its management compared to their other counterparts. CONCLUSION Based on the findings of a moderate level of knowledge of CIN among nurses, the findings call for the need for further education and training. As a long-term plan, this might be accomplished by encouraging nurses to pursue post-graduate education or oncology-specialized certification and supporting them with scholarship grants. However, deliberate plans for short courses, training and workshops on oncology or CIN are other choices with a more immediate impact on nurses' knowledge and clinical practice. Finally, integrating oncology nursing education within nursing curricula is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al Qadire
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.,Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, P.O. Box 130040, Mafraq, 25113, Jordan
| | - Cherry Ann C Ballad
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Ma'en Aljezawi
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.,Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, P.O. Box 130040, Mafraq, 25113, Jordan
| | - Omar Al Omari
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Fawwaz Alaloul
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Ahmad Musa
- Faculty of Nursing, Al Al-Bayt University, P.O. Box 130040, Mafraq, 25113, Jordan
| | - Sulaiman Al Sabei
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Atika Khalaf
- College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, PC 123, P.O. Box 66, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. .,Faculty of Health Sciences, Kristianstad University, Elmetorpsvägen 15, 291 88, Kristianstad, SE, Sweden.
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Chan MF, Al-Dhawyani AM, Al Hinai K, Al-Azri M. A cluster analysis to explore the burden of primary caregivers of children with cancer in Oman. J SPEC PEDIATR NURS 2022; 27:e12389. [PMID: 35726717 DOI: 10.1111/jspn.12389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few studies have sought to evaluate the risk burden of primary caregivers, particularly in Oman. This study aimed to explore whether different risk patterns of caregiver burden exist among the primary caregivers of Omani children with leukemia. DESIGN AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and November 2020. A total of 101 primary caregivers of children with leukemia were recruited from a public hospital in Oman. The Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) was used to assess caregiver burden. RESULTS A two-step cluster analysis indicated that the cohort was not homogeneous (silhouette value: 1.41). Caregivers in Cluster 1 (n = 42; 41.6%) were relatively older, less educated, and had a higher caregiving burden (mean CBI score: 37.7 ± 19.9). In contrast, caregivers in Cluster 2 (n = 59; 58.4%) were younger, more highly educated, and had a moderate caregiving burden (mean CBI score: 26.3 ± 13.6). As such, Clusters 1 and 2 were characterized as the "high-risk" and "moderate-risk" burden groups, respectively. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This study highlights the need for a policy draft to target and reduce the caregiver burden in Oman, Nursing professionals should seek to develop and implement customized care depending on the caregiver risk burden, including additional financial, psychological, and physical support. They should seek to stratify caregivers by risk burden as some groups may require additional support. However, in light of recent precautionary measures due to the current pandemic situation, such services will have to be provided online or via telephone instead of in person for the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Fai Chan
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | | | | | - Mohammed Al-Azri
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Bondre MF, Al Qubtan M, Al Harthy SO. Assessing Suitability of a Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Oman. Cureus 2022; 14:e27011. [PMID: 35874903 PMCID: PMC9298662 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27011] [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] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is among the most common cancers globally and carries a high mortality rate. The incidence of colorectal cancer has been increasing in the Middle East, including in Oman. While many countries have implemented a bowel cancer screening program, Oman has yet to establish one. A standard tool for bowel cancer screening is a fecal immunochemical test where a fecal sample is sent to a laboratory to check for blood content in the feces. In Oman, such fecal test kits are available at the primary health care level, but primary care physicians were unaware of the signs and symptoms or screening methods for colorectal cancer. This review article aims to assess the suitability of a colorectal cancer screening program in Oman using guidelines from the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence (SURE) collaboration.
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Determinants of health-related quality of life among Omanis hospitalized patients with cancer: a cross-sectional study. Qual Life Res 2022; 31:2061-2070. [DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-03061-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Al-Azri M, Al-Baimani K, Al-Awaisi H, Al-Mandhari Z, Al-Khamayasi J, Al-Lawati Y, Panchatcharam SM. Knowledge of symptoms, time to presentation and barriers to medical help-seeking among Omani women diagnosed with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e043976. [PMID: 33478965 PMCID: PMC7825262 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify knowledge of breast cancer (BC) symptoms, time taken to consult a doctor and factors contributing to delays in medical help-seeking. DESIGN A cross-sectional study of Omani women diagnosed with BC. SETTING The two main teaching hospitals in Oman: Royal Hospital and Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. PARTICIPANTS Adult Omani women recently diagnosed with BC. TOOLS The Breast Module of the Cancer Awareness Measure and the International Cancer Benchmarking Partnership questionnaire were used to collect data. RESULTS A total of 300 women with BC participated (response rate: 91.0%). The mean age at diagnosis was 43.0±12.50 years and 33.5% were diagnosed at stage III or IV. Although most women (74.4%) recognised breast/armpit lumps to be a symptom of BC, less than half identified other symptoms, including breast/armpit pain (44.0%), changes in the position of the nipple (36.2%), redness (31.7%), fatigue (26.3%), weight loss (23.4%) and loss of appetite (20.8%). While most (91.6%) were aware that BC could be cured if detected early, only 66.4% sought medical help within a month of developing symptoms. Initial responses to symptoms included informing husbands (40.2%) or family members (36.5%). Barriers to seeking medical help included feeling scared (68.9%) and worried about what the doctor might find (62.8%). Highly educated women were more likely to recognise the following as BC symptoms: changes in nipple position (OR: 0.16, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.81), breast pain (OR: 0.10, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.86) and unexplained weight loss (OR: 0.18, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.88) (all p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Although many Omani women with BC were aware of the importance of early diagnosis, most demonstrated inadequate knowledge of symptoms, did not prioritise seeking medical help and reported emotional barriers to help-seeking. More educational measures are needed to improve symptom recognition and address help-seeking barriers to minimise delays in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Azri
- Family Medicine and Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Khalid Al-Baimani
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Huda Al-Awaisi
- Nursing Directorate, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | | | - Jasem Al-Khamayasi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Yaseen Al-Lawati
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Al-Riyami A, Abdulhadi NN, Al-Azri M. Understanding the Perceptions of Omani Women Regarding Life After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2021; 20:e360-e367. [PMID: 33414942 PMCID: PMC7757920 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.2020.20.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives There is a rising burden of breast cancer (BC) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR), and its sociopsychological impact is a quickly growing health concern in this region. Because understanding cancer patients’ perceptions of life is integral to their treatment, they are also a concern for healthcare providers. This qualitative study, therefore, explored changes in Omani women’s perceptions of life after a BC diagnosis. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 21 Omani women undergoing treatment for BC at the Oncology Ward of Muscat’s Royal Hospital from March to May 2017. The collected data were subjected to qualitative content analysis. Results After their cancer diagnosis, the women appeared to pass through three main stages in their coping processes. First, they passed through a stage of severe psychosocial distress and diminishment in personal identity. Next, they evolved strategies for coping based on cultural, religious and family resources. Finally, the women experienced acceptance and submission to the reality of the cancer as God’s will with changes in attitudes and perceptions of the meaning of life. Conclusion A BC diagnosis impacts Omani women severely, affecting their lives dramatically. They adopt coping strategies based on cultural, religious and spiritual beliefs. Healthcare providers need to acknowledge and facilitate women’s spiritual and cultural coping strategies as an integral part of their treatment which holds potential to improve their prognosis. Such strategies should be individualised to suit each woman’s experiences, perceptions and needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asya Al-Riyami
- Directorate General of Planning and Studies, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Nadia N Abdulhadi
- Directorate General of Planning and Studies, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mohammed Al-Azri
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Al Balushi M, Al Mandhari Z. Radiation Oncology in Oman: Current Status and Future Challenges. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2020; 108:851-855. [PMID: 32665111 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Oman is a high-income Middle Eastern country. Over the past 50 years, the country's health care system has undergone revolutionary changes to meet the health care needs of its population, driven by high oil and gas revenues. It currently has a very efficient universal health care system. There are 2 linear accelerators in the country and 6 radiation oncologists. A new cancer research center is currently under construction. The major challenge that could affect the delivery of radiation therapy in the future is sustenance of the health care achievements in view of a growing population and the reliance on public funding for health care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Al Balushi
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Al-Bahlani S, Burney IA, Al-Dhahli B, Al-Kharusi S, Al-Kharousi F, Al-Kalbani A, Ahmed I. Boswellic acid sensitizes gastric cancer cells to Cisplatin-induced apoptosis via p53-mediated pathway. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2020; 21:64. [PMID: 32867831 PMCID: PMC7460741 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-020-00442-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cisplatin (CDDP) is an effective anticancer drug for Gastric cancer (GC) that induces apoptosis by altering pro- (p53) and anti-apoptotic (Akt and NFkB) proteins; however, chemoresistance remains a big challenge. Additional compounds with promising anticancer effects such as AKBA (Acetyl-keto-beta boswellic acid) may overcome the resistance. However, its role in CDDP-induced apoptosis in GC has not been studied. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of AKBA on p53-mediated, CDDP-induced apoptosis in GC cells. AGS and NCI-N87 cells were treated with different concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100 μM) of CDDP and/or AKBA. Methods P53, Akt and NFkB proteins and apoptosis were assessed by Western blot and flow cytometry. The role of p53 was determined by inhibiting its function via the siRNA approach. Results The results revealed that CDDP and AKBA significantly increased p53 content in both cells, while Akt and NFkB were significantly decreased. Both compounds significantly induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. AKBA sensitized GC cells to CDDP-induced apoptosis by altering the protein expression. P53 downregulation affected Akt and NFkB proteins with a slight increase in apoptosis induction in the combination treated groups. Conclusions Altogether, our findings suggest that AKBA enhances GC cell sensitivity to CDDP-induced apoptosis via the p53 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadia Al-Bahlani
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P. O. Box 35, PC 123 AlKhoud, Muscat, Oman.
| | - Ikram A Burney
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Buthaina Al-Dhahli
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P. O. Box 35, PC 123 AlKhoud, Muscat, Oman
| | - Safiya Al-Kharusi
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P. O. Box 35, PC 123 AlKhoud, Muscat, Oman
| | - Fakhra Al-Kharousi
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P. O. Box 35, PC 123 AlKhoud, Muscat, Oman
| | - Amani Al-Kalbani
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, P. O. Box 35, PC 123 AlKhoud, Muscat, Oman
| | - Ikhlas Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Jalilvand A, Soltanpour MS. Promoter Hypermethylation of Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway Inhibitor WIF-1 Gene and its Association with MTHFR C677T Polymorphism in Patients with Colorectal Cancer. Oman Med J 2020; 35:e131. [PMID: 32607254 PMCID: PMC7315525 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2020.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy with a high rate of mortality. The dysregulation of genes involved in the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is a common finding in cancers. Wnt-inhibitory factor-1 (WIF-1) suppresses the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and its inactivation by genetics and epigenetic changes may cause cancer. We investigated the DNA methylation status of the WIF-1 gene in patients with CRC and its interaction with MTHFR C677T polymorphism, a known modifier of methylation reaction. METHODS We investigated 50 cancerous tissues and the adjacent non-cancerous tissue. Genomic DNA was extracted using a commercial kit and was treated by sodium bisulfite. Methylation-specific PCR was used for methylation analysis, and restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR to analyze the C677T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene. RESULTS The frequency of WIF1 promoter DNA methylation was significantly higher in cancerous tissue than adjacent non-cancerous tissue (52.0% vs. 8.0%; p < 0.001). WIF1 promoter DNA methylation status showed a significant association only with tumor location (p = 0.009). Carriers of TT genotype and T allele of MTHFR C677T polymorphism had a significantly higher frequency of unmethylated WIF1 gene than methylated WIF-1 gene in cancerous tissue (p = 0.025 and p = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Promoter DNA hypermethylation of the WIF-1 gene is a significant risk factor for CRC development, which was significantly associated with tumor location only. The significant association of TT genotype and T allele of MTHFR C677T polymorphism with unmethylated WIF-1 gene suggests a protective role for this common polymorphism against methylation-induced development of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Jalilvand
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Soleiman Soltanpour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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Al Hinai H, Al Mufarji K, Al Siyabi H, Al Anqoudi Z, Al Saadi R, Al Awaidy S. Health promotion strategy as part of Vision 2050 in Oman: the way forward. Glob Health Promot 2020; 27:145-149. [PMID: 32167017 DOI: 10.1177/1757975920909115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Oman. The adoption of unhealthy and sedentary lifestyles associated with rising income is trending with a large number of individuals and is contributing to the emergence of substantial health issues. Ultimately, the incidence of NCDs has increased considerably. This review aims to define strategies that can help in attaining Oman's national health promotion goals. RESULTS The current health promotion strategies have not been adequate or sufficient to meet the national Health Vision 2050 of Oman. CONCLUSION Unsafe behaviors and unhealthy lifestyles that led to a significant increase in NCDs have emerged in Oman. Careful re-planning and continuous monitoring and evaluation of health promotion activities are necessary for effective implementation of health policies, with the ultimate goal of reducing the NCD burden in Oman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halima Al Hinai
- Directorate General of Planning and Studies, MOH, Muscat, Masqat, Oman
| | | | - Huda Al Siyabi
- Directorate General of Primary Health Care, MOH, Muscat, Masqat, Oman
| | - Zahir Al Anqoudi
- Directorate General Health Services Ad Dhakhilya, MOH, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Rashid Al Saadi
- Directorate General Health Services South Batinah, MOH, Masanah, South Batinah, Oman
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