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Taha AM, Sabet C, Nada SA, Abuzerr S, Nguyen D. Addressing the mental health crisis among children in Gaza. Lancet Psychiatry 2024; 11:249-250. [PMID: 38346441 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(24)00036-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amira Mohamed Taha
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt; Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
| | - Cameron Sabet
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sarah A Nada
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- University College of Science and Technology-Khan Younis, Gaza, Occupied Palestinian Territory
| | - Dang Nguyen
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Corrigan Minehan Heart Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Taha AM, Mahmoud H, Nada SA, Abuzerr S. Controlling the alarming rise in infectious diseases among children younger than 5 years in Gaza during the war. Lancet Infect Dis 2024; 24:e211. [PMID: 38307097 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00067-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Amira Mohamed Taha
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt; Medical Research Group of Egypt, Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
| | - Hussam Mahmoud
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Colorado, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Sarah A Nada
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Medical Sciences, University College of Science and Technology, Gaza, occupied Palestinian territory
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Sabet C, Nguyen D, Nada SA, Abuzerr S, Taha AM. Women and girls in Gaza face increasingly dire physical and mental health challenges. BMJ 2024; 384:q625. [PMID: 38471717 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Sabet
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Dang Nguyen
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Corrigan Minehan Heart Center, Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Sarah A Nada
- Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- University College of Science and Technology-Khan Younis, Gaza, Occupied Palestine Territory
| | - Amira Mohamed Taha
- Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
- Medical Research Group of Egypt (MRGE), Negida Academy, Arlington, MA, USA
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Kabrah SM, Abuzerr S, Flemban A, Jambi L, Kabrah A, Alghamdi S, Alghamdi SM, Alshareef AA, Melibary SM, Al-Ghamdi DH, Filfilan NO, Ralsan TS, Alzhrani AA. Perceptions, Attitudes, and Barriers towards the Use of Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI) Standards among Saudi Healthcare Providers. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:183. [PMID: 38255071 PMCID: PMC10815121 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quality improvement is a strategic priority for all healthcare systems. However, the engagement of healthcare providers in pursuing accreditation plays a critical role in integrating standards into routine practice. Therefore, the current study assessed the perceptions, attitudes, and barriers towards using the Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI) standards among Saudi healthcare providers. METHOD This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among a representative sample (364) of Saudi healthcare providers (both genders, aged 20-60) working at twenty governmental CBAHI-accredited hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The study participants were selected using a cluster random sampling method. Data regarding the perceptions, attitudes, and barriers toward using CBAHI standards among Saudi healthcare providers were evaluated using a validated questionnaire. Additional information regarding demographic-socioeconomic variables was obtained with an interview-based questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28. RESULTS A total of 364 healthcare providers participated in the current study. Of them, 54.4% were males, and 45.6% were females. Almost half (48.6%) of the study participants held bachelor's degrees. For the variables of age group, marital status, monthly income, and years of work experience, statistically significant associations were found between males and females (p-value < 0.05). The means of overall item agreement percentage of the participating healthcare providers for perceptions and attitudes towards using CBAHI standards and attitudes towards using CBAHI standards as a tool for quality improvement were 80.1%, 76.4%, and 72.0%, respectively. The highest item agreement percentage of the participating healthcare providers regarding the barriers that inhibit the hospital from obtaining the full benefit from the CBAHI accreditation was for the inexpedient IT tools (59.6%). CONCLUSION The current study's results demonstrated accepted perceptions and attitudes toward using CBAHI standards among Saudi healthcare providers. In addition, the identified barriers should be alleviated to improve the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of the hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The findings also help clarify the accreditation operating process, which may be helpful to policymakers and stakeholders in making informed decisions on integrating accreditation standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed M. Kabrah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.K.); (S.A.)
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Medical Sciences, University College of Science & Technology-Khan Younis, Gaza P.O. Box 8, Palestine;
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Arwa Flemban
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Layal Jambi
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11433, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmed Kabrah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.K.); (S.A.)
| | - Saad Alghamdi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.K.); (S.A.)
| | - Saeed M. Alghamdi
- Respiratory Care Program, Clinical Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmad A. Alshareef
- Laboratory and Blood Bank, PCR Department, AlNoor Specialist Hospital, Ministry of Health Makkah, Makkah 24241, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Seham M. Melibary
- Quality Department, Regional Laboratory and Blood Banks, Ministry of Health Jeddah, Jeddah 22421, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Najeeb O. Filfilan
- Safety and Sterilization Department, Regional Laboratory and Blood Banks, Ministry of Health Makkah, Makkah 25215, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Tahani S. Ralsan
- Quality Management MOH Laboratory Accreditation Supportive CBAHI/CAP, Dammam 34116, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Adel A. Alzhrani
- Quality Department, Regional Laboratory and Blood Banks, Ministry of Health Makkah, Makkah 25215, Saudi Arabia;
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Mahmoud H, Abuzerr S. State of the health-care system in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas war. Lancet 2023; 402:2294. [PMID: 38048785 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)02634-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Mahmoud
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA.
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- University College of Science and Technology-Khan Younis, Gaza, Occupied Palestine Territory
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El Bilbeisi AH, Abuzerr S, El Afifi A. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231207707. [PMID: 38020798 PMCID: PMC10657536 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231207707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Both developing and developed countries are facing difficulties in finding regular donors. In areas that are exposed to frequent conflicts and wars, such as the Gaza Strip, there is a need for a continuous blood supply. This study aims to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022, in which 1506 participants were randomly selected from different governorates in the Gaza Strip. A structured and valid questionnaire was employed to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward blood donation. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 28. The chi-square test was used to measure the significance of associations. Results A total of 1506 individuals living in the Gaza Strip participated. The total mean score of the overall knowledge and positive attitudes toward blood donation was 55.1% and 67.1%, respectively. Furthermore, 1236 (82.1%) of the study participants never donated blood. Of them, 260 (21.0%) demonstrated that they do not have information on when, where, and how to donate; 228 (18.4%) thought that they were not fit to donate; 187 (15.1%) demonstrated that they did not have time to donate; 143 (11.6%) feared health problems, and 132 (10.7%) feared anemia. On the contrary, 99 (36.7%) donated blood when a friend or relative needed blood, and 171 (63.3%) were voluntary donations. Statistically, a significant association was found between knowledge, attitudes, practices, and sociodemographic variables (p < 0.05 for all). Discussion The study findings indicated poor donation habits despite positive attitudes toward blood donation in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. This research emphasizes the need to recognize and correct the knowledge gap that results in unfavorable behaviors against blood donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Nutrition, Al Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Medical Sciences, University College of Science and Technology, Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, Palestine
- Visiting Scholar with the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Amany El Afifi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
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Abuzerr S, Zinszer K. Computer-aided diagnostic accuracy of pulmonary tuberculosis on chest radiography among lower respiratory tract symptoms patients. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1254658. [PMID: 37965525 PMCID: PMC10641698 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1254658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Even though the Gaza Strip is a low pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) burden region, it is well-known that TB is primarily a socioeconomic problem associated with overcrowding, poor hygiene, a lack of fresh water, and limited access to healthcare, which is the typical case in the Gaza Strip. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the accuracy of the automatic software computer-aided detection for tuberculosis (CAD4TB) in diagnosing pulmonary TB on chest radiography and compare the CAD4TB software reading with the results of geneXpert. Using a census sampling method, the study was conducted in radiology departments in the Gaza Strip hospitals between 1 December 2022 and 31 March 2023. A digital X-ray, printer, and online X-ray system backed by CAD4TBv6 software were used to screen patients with lower respiratory tract symptoms. GeneXpert analysis was performed for all patients having a score > 40. A total of 1,237 patients presenting with lower respiratory tract symptoms participated in this current study. Chest X-ray readings showed that 7.8% (n = 96) were presumptive for TB. The CAD4TBv6 scores showed that 11.8% (n = 146) of recruited patients were presumptive for TB. GeneXpert testing on sputum samples showed that 6.2% (n = 77) of those with a score > 40 on CAD4TB were positive for pulmonary TB. Significant differences were found in chest X-ray readings, CAD4TBv6 scores, and GeneXpert results among sociodemographic and health status variables (P-value < 0.05). The study showed that the incidence rate of TB in the Gaza Strip is 3.5 per 100,000 population in the Gaza strip. The sensitivity of the CAD4TBv6 score and the symptomatic review for tuberculosis with a threshold score of >40 is 80.2%, and the specificity is 94.0%. The positive Likelihood Ratio is 13.3%, Negative Likelihood Ratio is 0.2 with 7.8% prevalence. Positive Predictive Value is 52.7%, Negative Predictive Value is 98.3%, and accuracy is 92.9%. In a resource-limited country with a high burden of neglected disease, combining chest X-ray readings by CAD4TB and symptomatology is extremely valuable for screening a population at risk. CAD4TB is noticeably more efficient than other methods for TB screening and early diagnosis in people who would otherwise go undetected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Medical Sciences, University College of Science and Technology, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kate Zinszer
- School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Kabrah SM, Abuzerr S, Almaghrabi RO, Alserihi R, Felimban RI, Mujalli A, Aslam A, Refaat B, Halawani AJ, Alzhrani AA, AlMoteri NS, Abusaadh FF, Bulkhi RA. The Quality of Blood Donation Services and Its Association with Blood Donors' Trust and Loyalty at Makkah Blood Donation Centers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2115. [PMID: 37570357 PMCID: PMC10418719 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11152115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The current cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the quality of blood donation services and its association with blood donors' trust and loyalty at Makkah blood donation centers in Saudi Arabia. A total of 373 healthy blood donors aged ≥18 years who visited blood donation centers in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, between 1st and 28th February 2023 were recruited using a census sampling method. A pre-tested and validated Arabic language questionnaire was employed. The study survey included a checklist of sociodemographic variables (seven items), as well as seven-point Likert-scale questions on the quality of blood donation services (21 items), questions to assess the participant's level of trust in blood donation centers (4 items), and questions to evaluate the level of loyalty to blood donations (4 items). SPSS (version 24) was used for data analysis. A total of 373 blood donors were included in this study. Of them, 240 (64.3%) were males and 133 (35.7%) were females. The vast majority of the study participants, 330 (88.5%), had a high educational level. The overall average agreement score for the quality of blood donation services was 71.7%. Furthermore, the overall average item agreement score for trust in blood donation centers and places was 83.0%, while the overall average item agreement score for loyalty to blood donation was 72.1%. Moreover, after adjustment for potential confounding factors, high levels of quality in blood donation services were associated with high levels of trust and loyalty among the blood donors (OR: 1.518, CI 95%: 0.321-0.864 and OR: 2.466, CI 95%: 0.285-0.763, respectively) (p-value < 0.05 for all). The overall quality of, trust in, and loyalty to blood donation services were 71.7%, 83.0%, and 72.1%, respectively. In addition, high levels of quality in blood donation services could improve blood donors' trust and loyalty levels at Makkah blood donation centers in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed M. Kabrah
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Medical Sciences, University College of Science & Technology-Khan Younis, Gaza P.O. Box 8, Palestine;
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Ruba Omar Almaghrabi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Albaha University, Albaha 65431, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Raed Alserihi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (R.I.F.)
| | - Raed I. Felimban
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (R.A.); (R.I.F.)
- Center of Innovation in Personalized Medicine (CIPM), 3D Bioprinting Unit, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Mujalli
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Akhmed Aslam
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Bassem Refaat
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Amr J. Halawani
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.); (A.A.); (B.R.); (A.J.H.)
| | - Adel A. Alzhrani
- The Quality Department, Regional Lab and Central Blood Bank, Ministry of Health, Makkah 24321, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Naif Samran AlMoteri
- Laboratory and Blood Bank Department, King Salman Abdul Aziz Medical City, Al Madinah 42319, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fauziah Fawzi Abusaadh
- Haematology Department, Regional Lab and Central Blood Bank, Ministry of Health, Makkah 24321, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Rasha A. Bulkhi
- Public Health Department, Regional Lab and Central Blood Bank, Ministry of Health, Makkah 24321, Saudi Arabia;
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El Bilbeisi AH, Al-Jawaldeh A, Albelbeisi A, Abuzerr S, Elmadfa I, Nasreddine L. Association of Household Food Insecurity With Dietary Intakes and Nutrition-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among School-Aged Children in Gaza Strip, Palestine. Front Nutr 2022; 9:890850. [PMID: 35845795 PMCID: PMC9277343 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.890850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The present study aimed to determine the association of household food insecurity with dietary intakes and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among school-aged children. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among a representative sample of school-aged children. A total of 380 children and their parents were selected from all Gaza strip governorates, using a random sampling method. The demographic and socioeconomic characteristics; the Radimer/Cornell food security scale; two non-consecutive days of 24-h dietary recall; anthropometric measurements; and the Food and Agriculture Organization KAP-questionnaire (Module 3) were employed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results About 71.6% of school-aged children were household food-insecure, while 28.4% were household food-secure. Significant associations were found between living area, educational level, household monthly income, weight for age and BMI for age z-scores, underweight, malnutrition status, intakes of protein, iron, vitamin D, and zinc among household food-secure, and household food-insecure. After adjustment for confounding variables, having nutrition-related adequate KAP were associated with lower odds of being food-insecure household [OR = 0.519, 95% (CI = 0.320–0.841)], [OR = 0.510, 95% CI = (0.315–0.827)], and [OR = 0.466, 95% CI = (0.285–0.763), P < 0.05 for all], respectively. Conclusions Low socioeconomic status, low anthropometric indices, poor dietary intakes may be associated with a high level of food-insecurity; while having nutrition-related adequate KAP may be protective against food-insecurity among school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza, Palestine
- *Correspondence: Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
| | - Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), World Health Organization (WHO), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Albelbeisi
- Health Research Unit, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Elmadfa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lara Nasreddine
- Nutrition and Food Sciences Department, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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El Bilbeisi AH, Al-Jawaldeh A, Albelbeisi A, Abuzerr S, Elmadfa I, Nasreddine L. Association of household food insecurity with dietary intakes and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices among parents, aged ≥ 18 years in Gaza Strip, Palestine: A descriptive study. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09582. [PMID: 35669548 PMCID: PMC9163506 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the association between household food insecurity and dietary intake and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among parents aged ≥18 years in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The current cross-sectional study was carried out in 2021 among adults (mothers and fathers) aged ≥18 years. A total of 614 participants were selected from all Gaza Strip governorates using a cluster random sampling method. To assess the nutrition-related KAP, we employed the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations questionnaire (Modules 5, 6, 7, and 9). Data regarding household food security status, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the study participants, anthropometric measurements, and dietary intakes were obtained using standard questionnaires and methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. About 71.5% and 28.5% of the study participants were household food-insecured and household food-secured, respectively. Significant associations were found between participants from household food-secured and household food-insecured concerning several socio-demographic variables, anthropometric measures, intakes of energy, protein, carbohydrate, and calcium; nutrition-related knowledge and attitudes toward undernutrition and vitamin A deficiency; nutrition-related KAP of iron deficiency anemia; and nutrition-related attitudes and practices of food safety (P-values < 0.05 for all). In conclusion, the demographic and socioeconomic status, anthropometric measurements, and poor dietary intakes may be associated with high levels of household food insecurity, while having nutrition-related adequate KAP may be associated with low levels of household food insecurity among parents aged ≥18 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), World Health Organization (WHO), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Albelbeisi
- Health Research Unit, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Palestine
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar with the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Elmadfa
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lara Nasreddine
- Nutrition and Food Sciences Department, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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El Bilbeisi AH, Al-Jawaldeh A, Albelbeisi A, Abuzerr S, Elmadfa I, Nasreddine L. Households' Food Insecurity and Its Association with Demographic and Socioeconomic Factors in Gaza Strip, Palestine: A Cross-Sectional Study. Ethiop J Health Sci 2022; 32:369-380. [PMID: 35693586 PMCID: PMC9175212 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v32i2.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This sudy aimed to identify the prevalence of household's food insecurity and its association with demographic and socioeconomic factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2021 among a representative sample of households in the Gaza strip governorates. A total of 1167 households randomly selected from all five governorates and were included in the study. The Radimer/Cornell food security scale was used to determine the prevalence and levels of household food insecurity. The household's demographic and socioeconomic characteristics were obtained using an interview-based questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results The overall prevalence of household's food insecurity was 71.5%. The prevalence by governorates was highest in Gaza (30.8%), followed by Khanyounis (23.0%), North-Gaza (18.6%), Middle-Area (15.2%) and Rafah (12.4%). Regarding the food insecurity levels, 333 (28.5%) of the households were food secure, 422 (36.2%) had mild food insecurity, 161 (13.8%) had moderate food insecurity, and 251 (21.5%) had severe food insecurity. Significant associations were found between governorates, monthly income, homeownership, work status with the household's food insecurity, (Crude OR [COR] = 2.02, 95% CI = [1.02–3.98], P value < 0.05), (COR = 2.00, 95% CI = [1.04–2.75], P value < 0.05), (COR = 2.36, 95% CI = [1.39–3.99], P value < 0.05), and (COR = 1.14, 95% CI = [0.66–1.97], P value < 0.05), respectively. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that food insecurity is highly prevalent in the Gaza strip and is associated with poor living conditions. Therefore, this high prevalence should be seriously discussed and urgently considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), World Health Organization (WHO), Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar with the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Elmadfa
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lara Nasreddine
- Nutrition and Food Sciences Department, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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El Bilbeisi AH, Al-Jawaldeh A, Albelbeisi A, Abuzerr S, Elmadfa I, Nasreddine L. Households' Food Insecurity and Their Association With Dietary Intakes, Nutrition-Related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Among Under-five Children in Gaza Strip, Palestine. Front Public Health 2022; 10:808700. [PMID: 35284364 PMCID: PMC8913882 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.808700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the households' food insecurity and their association with dietary intakes, nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among under-five children in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among a representative sample of under-five children. A total of 350 children and their proxy were selected from all Gaza strip governorates, using a cluster random sampling method. The Radimer/Cornell food-security scale was used. A 24-h dietary recall was employed for dietary intakes assessment. Nutrition-related KAP for feeding under-five children, anthropometric measurements, and demographic-socioeconomic characteristics were obtained with an interview-based questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The children from food-insecure households had a high prevalence of moderate underweight (30.4%), stunting (32.8%), wasting (9.6%), and acute undernutrition (30.4%). Between food-insecure and food-secure groups there were significant differences in weight, height/length, mid-upper arm circumference, weight-for-age and mid-upper arm circumference z-scores, underweight, acute undernutrition, intakes of protein, fat, vitamin D, zinc, continued breastfeeding, having nutrition-related adequate knowledge, having nutrition-related positive attitudes, and achieved minimum dietary diversity score (P < 0.05 for all). Additionally, about (56.0%) food-insecure households have inadequate nutrition-related knowledge, (77.6%) have nutrition-related negative attitudes, and (95.2%) did not achieve a minimum dietary diversity score. In conclusion, the children from food-insecure households had a high prevalence of moderate underweight, stunting, wasting, and acute undernutrition. Moreover, low economic status, poor dietary intakes, low levels of nutrition-related KAP, and lack of dietary diversity could contribute to the high levels of food insecurity among under-five children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
- *Correspondence: Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
| | - Ayoub Al-Jawaldeh
- Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), World Health Organization (WHO), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Albelbeisi
- Health Research Unit, Palestinian Ministry of Health, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar With the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ibrahim Elmadfa
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lara Nasreddine
- Nutrition and Food Sciences Department, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Abuzerr S, Mahvi AH, Abuhabib A, Darwish M. Assessment of the innovative freezing-melting technology for desalination of the Mediterranean seawater in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. DWT 2022. [DOI: 10.5004/dwt.2022.28636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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14
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Abuzerr S, Zinszer K, Shaheen A, El Bilbeisi AH, Salem A, Aldirawi A, Emad OJ, Al Haj Daoud A, Naser R, Eldeirawi K. Attitudes and Satisfaction toward the Taken Procedures to Tackle COVID-19 Pandemic in Palestine. Ethiop J Health Sci 2022; 32:27-36. [PMID: 35250214 PMCID: PMC8864393 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v32i1.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been differences in the mitigation strategies implemented by governments worldwide. In addition, people's acceptance and adherence to these strategies, such as avoiding large gatherings and shelter in place, varied. The current study aims to assess the attitude and satisfaction with the procedures to tackle COVID-19 in Palestine. Methods This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Palestinian territories, including, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, between April 29, 2020, and June 5, 2020, using a validated online questionnaire. The questionnaire included three sections: socio-demographic characteristics, attitude towards the measures and behaviors to avoid COVID-19 infection and its consequences, and level of people satisfaction with the response of the community and local authorities to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. A convenience sampling method was used to select participants. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results A total of 570 adults aged ≥18 years (56.3% males and 43.7% females) were included in the study. The mean positive attitude score (average % agree or strongly agree) was 94.22%; 95.24%, 95.18%, and 92.18% in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, respectively. While, the mean satisfaction score was 44.26%, distributed as 47.16%, 46.1%, and 39.22% in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, respectively. Additionally, there were statistically significant variations by most attitude and satisfaction variables across the governorates included in the study (p < 0.05). The current study demonstrated high levels of positive attitude but suboptimal level of satisfaction toward the taken procedures to tackle COVID-19 in Palestine. Conclusions Varied implementation strategies to improve the levels of satisfaction toward the approaches to combat the COVID-19 pandemic are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada, Quality Improvement and Infection Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kate Zinszer
- School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Canada
| | - Amira Shaheen
- Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Palestine
| | - Abdel Hamid El Bilbeisi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | | | - Ali Aldirawi
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Al-Shifa Hospital, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Osama Jabr Emad
- Mental Health General Directorate, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ayman Al Haj Daoud
- Palestine Academy for Science and Technology (PALAST), West Bank, Palestine
| | | | - Kamal Eldeirawi
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, UIC College of Nursing (M/C 802), Chicago, USA
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15
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Abuzerr S, Abu-Aita S, Al-Najjar I, Abuhabib A, Al-Jourany H, Zinszer K. Preparedness and Readiness Strategies for Addressing the COVID-19 Pandemic in Fragile and Conflict Settings: Experiences of the Gaza Strip. Front Public Health 2021; 9:766103. [PMID: 34881218 PMCID: PMC8646039 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.766103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a global public health threat of serious concern, especially in conflict settings that face fragility and lack adequate resources and capacities. Gaza suffers from a blockade imposed by the Israeli occupation, environmental deterioration, confiscation of lands, demolition of houses and hospitals, restrictions on movement, lack of control over natural resources, and financial constraints. Gaza's population is consequently living in a poor humanitarian situation with high unemployment rates, poverty, over-crowdedness, and a weak health system. This makes Gaza incredibly fragile and affects its ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic effectively. The pandemic is expected to deepen Gaza's systems' fragility, which is already overstretched beyond their limits. This will hinder its capacity to deal with the pandemic, and other pre-existing pressing humanitarian needs. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively explored Gaza's policy failures and successes related to the COVID-19 preparedness and response by state and non-state actors and recommend potential solutions and alternatives. We have addressed critical issues including the health system, water, sanitation, hygiene, socio-economic, education, food security, and others. In Gaza, effectiveness in combating the COVID-19 pandemic can only come from committed political will, transparency from all regulators, strategic dialogue, comprehensive planning, and active international support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Quality Improvement and Infection Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Ismail Al-Najjar
- Disaster and Crisis Management Master Programme, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Azzam Abuhabib
- Disaster and Crisis Management Master Programme, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine.,Water Technology Ph.D. Joint Programme, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Kate Zinszer
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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16
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Abuzerr S, Zinszer K, Assan A. Implementation challenges of an integrated One Health surveillance system in humanitarian settings: A qualitative study in Palestine. SAGE Open Med 2021; 9:20503121211043038. [PMID: 34504706 PMCID: PMC8422815 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211043038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Several factors have changed interactions between people, animals, plants, and the environment - renewing the relevance of the One Health surveillance system in the fight against zoonotic diseases such as COVID-19. Therefore, this study aimed to explore barriers to implementing an integrated One Health surveillance system in Palestine. Methods This qualitative study was conducted from April 2020 until August 2020. Data were collected using semi-structured interview guides. Seven key stakeholders were interviewed during data collection. A thematic analysis was performed. Results Four overarching themes emerged explaining barriers to integrated implementation of the One Health surveillance system. They are lack of policy coherence, limited financial resources, poor governance and leadership, and lack of One Health training programmes. Conclusion Improved understanding of the transmission and effective control (including One Health approach) of zoonotic disease and better governance and leadership are critical in the diseases that threaten public health, such as the COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar with the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Quality Improvement and Infection Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kate Zinszer
- School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Abraham Assan
- Global Policy and Advocacy Network (GLOOPLAN), Accra, Ghana
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17
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Beram A, Zinszer K, Bamuhair N, Abuzerr S, Jabre K, Gharbia H, El Bilbeisi AH, Ubeid A, Salisu WJ. The Association between Changes in Coronary Artery Calcium Scores, Dietary Intake, Physical Activity, and Depression Symptoms among the Population of Gaza Strip, Palestine. Ethiop J Health Sci 2021; 31:91-100. [PMID: 34158756 PMCID: PMC8188094 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v31i1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to identify the association between macronutrient intake, physical activity, and depressive symptoms and changes in coronary artery calcium score among the population of Gaza Strip. Method The study sample consisted of 269 individuals who underwent non-enhanced coronary computed tomography using 64-slice MDCT (Siemens, Germany) at Al-Shifa medical complex between September 2017 and January 2018. The study participants were divided into two groups; group one, consisting of coronary calcium calcification scoring (CAC) of greater than zero (CAC score > 0), and group two, CAC less than or equal to zero (CAC score ≤ 0). Data about macronutrient intake, physical activity, and depressive symptoms were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Additionally, the participants' anthropometric characteristics and blood biochemical markers were measured. Results Out of 269 participants, 45-recorded CAC score > 0; 72% of them were males with a mean age of 52.6 ± 5.4 years. Significant differences between the two groups in terms of total energy, lipid intake, and carbohydrate were found (P-value of 0.020, 0.012, and 0.034, respectively). No significant differences were recorded in protein intake, physical activity, and depression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis under adjustment for possible confounding factors revealed that macronutrient intake, physical activity, and depressive symptoms were not associated with the development of CAC in two models. Conclusion Based on our findings, macronutrient intake, physical activity, and depressive symptoms are not associated with the development of CAC among the population of Gaza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrazeq Beram
- Prince Naeif Center for Radiodiagnostic, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kate Zinszer
- School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Nouf Bamuhair
- University of the Science in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.,Advanced Generation International School, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada.,Quality Improvement and Infection Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kamal Jabre
- Department of Radiology, Al-Shifa Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Huda Gharbia
- Department of Radiology, Al-Shifa Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Awny Ubeid
- Department of Radiology, Al-Shifa Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
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18
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Kabrah SM, Kabrah AM, Flemban AF, Abuzerr S. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the susceptibility of ABO blood group to COVID-19 infection. Transfus Apher Sci 2021; 60:103169. [PMID: 34045120 PMCID: PMC8139534 DOI: 10.1016/j.transci.2021.103169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Numerous studies investigate the association between the ABO blood groups and the occurrence of COVID-19 infection; discordant findings were reported. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the existing evidence on the susceptibility of the ABO blood group to COVID-19 infection. Methods Systematically searched published articles in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and EMBASE between 1 st January 2020 and 21 st March 2021. After quality control and the exclusion of irrelevant studies, 16 studies were included in the final analysis. Results Although the random-effect meta-analysis revealed a large heterogeneity among studies, I 2 = 99.197 %. The pooled event rates and (95 % CIs) for A, O, B, and AB blood group were 0.459 (95 %CI: 0.358–0.441), 0.342 (95 %CI: 0.298–0.374), 0.180 (95 %CI: 0.150–0.214), and 0.076 (95 %CI: 0.055–0.127), respectively. These results indicated that the COVID-19 infection rate was higher in persons with blood group A > O > B > AB. Overall, the ABO blood group's vulnerability to COVID-19 infection was statistically significant (pooled p -value<0.001). Conclusion This meta-analysis offers a further indication of blood group A individuals' vulnerability to COVID-19 infection, and blood type AB are linked to a lower risk of COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed M Kabrah
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmed M Kabrah
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Arwa F Flemban
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar with the School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada; Quality Improvement and Infection Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
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19
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Abuzerr S, Zinszer K, Shaheen A, el Bilbeisi AH, Al Haj Daoud A, Aldirawi A, Salem A. Impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the Palestinian family: A cross-sectional study. SAGE Open Med 2021; 9:20503121211001137. [PMID: 33796295 PMCID: PMC7970169 DOI: 10.1177/20503121211001137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current study aims to understand and assess the consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on Palestinian families. METHODS This online community-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between 19 April 2020 and 5 June 2020, using a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised of three sections: sociodemographic characteristics, living conditions, and impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. A convenience sampling method was used to select participants. RESULTS A total of 570 adults aged ⩾18 years participated in the study. Of them, 258 (45.3%), 120 (21%), and 192 (33.7%) were residing in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and East Jerusalem, respectively. A large portion of participants (73.2%) reported that the containment measures of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic had caused an excessive burden on their families; 549 (96.3%) revealed that water supplies were not always available at home. However, paying attention to personal hygiene and home cleaning was more than usual before the announcement of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The mean times of going out of their homes have dropped significantly following the onset of the pandemic, p value = 0.001 (95% confidence interval). In addition, 192 (33.7%) participants reported that they changed to working remotely from home with 66 (11.6%) having lost their employment. CONCLUSION The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic was associated with an additional burden on the Palestinian families. Moreover, we suggest discussing the obtained results with local and national stakeholders to ensure that they know to improve their actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Visiting Scholar with the School of
Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal,
Montréal, QC, Canada
- Quality Improvement and Infection
Control Unit, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Kate Zinszer
- Department of Social and Preventive
Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montréal, QC,
Canada
| | - Amira Shaheen
- Public Health Department, Faculty of
Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Abdel Hamid el Bilbeisi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition,
Faculty of Pharmacy, Al Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ayman Al Haj Daoud
- Palestine Academy for Science and
Technology (PALAST), West Bank, Palestine
| | - Ali Aldirawi
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Al-Shifa
Hospital, Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Alshaarawi Salem
- Optometry and Vision Sciences,
University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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20
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Abuzerr S, Nasseri S, Yunesian M, Hadi M, Zinszer K, Mahvi AH, Nabizadeh R, Abu Mustafa A, Mohammed SH. Water, sanitation, and hygiene risk factors of acute diarrhea among children under five years in the Gaza Strip. Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 2019. [DOI: 10.2166/washdev.2019.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
This cross-sectional community household-based study aims to evaluate the water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in the Gaza Strip and to investigate their associations with the occurrence of acute diarrhea among children under five years. A survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted on 1,857 households with an child under five years from August 2017 to June 2018. About 69.7% of heads of households reported a diarrheal episode among their children during the two months preceding the survey. Multivariable logistic regression showed that sewage water observed around the households was associated with an increased risk of acute diarrhea (AOR = 2.45; P < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.83–3.27). Nevertheless, the allocation of a special water tank for desalinated drinking water at home (AOR = 0.3; P = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.1–0.8), the connection of households to a closed sewerage system (AOR = 0.56; P < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.43–0.73), and handwashing practices before and after eating (AOR = 0.42; P = 0.003; 95% CI: 0.24–0.74 and AOR = 0.50; P = 0.03; 95% CI: 0.26–0.94, respectively), as well as using desalinated water sources for drinking purposes, were inversely associated with the incidence of acute diarrhea among children under five. Further improvements in the existing sewerage system and the intensification of sanitation and hygiene promotion programs at the household levels may reduce the risk of acute diarrhea among children under five years in the Gaza Strip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Simin Nasseri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Research Methodology and Data Analysis, Institute for Environmental Research, TUMS, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Hadi
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kate Zinszer
- School of Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Amir Hossein Mahvi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Nabizadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ayman Abu Mustafa
- Department of Research, Directorate General of Human Resources Development, Ministry of Health, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Shimels Hussien Mohammed
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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21
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Mohammed SH, Habtewold TD, Birhanu MM, Sissay TA, Tegegne BS, Abuzerr S, Esmaillzadeh A. Neighbourhood socioeconomic status and overweight/obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028238. [PMID: 31727643 PMCID: PMC6886990 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low neighbourhood socioeconomic status (NSES) has been linked to a higher risk of overweight/obesity, irrespective of the individual's own socioeconomic status. No meta-analysis study has been done on the association. Thus, this study was done to synthesise the existing evidence on the association of NSES with overweight, obesity and body mass index (BMI). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Sciences and Google Scholar databases were searched for articles published until 25 September 2019. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Epidemiological studies, both longitudinal and cross-sectional ones, which examined the link of NSES to overweight, obesity or BMI, were included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data extraction was done by two reviewers, working independently. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for the observational studies. The summary estimates of the relationships of NSES with overweight, obesity and BMI statuses were calculated with random-effects meta-analysis models. Heterogeneity was assessed by Cochran's Q and I2 statistics. Subgroup analyses were done by age categories, continents, study designs and NSES measures. Publication bias was assessed by visual inspection of funnel plots and Egger's regression test. RESULT A total of 21 observational studies, covering 1 244 438 individuals, were included in this meta-analysis. Low NSES, compared with high NSES, was found to be associated with a 31% higher odds of overweight (pooled OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.47, p<0.001), a 45% higher odds of obesity (pooled OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.74, p<0.001) and a 1.09 kg/m2 increase in mean BMI (pooled beta=1.09, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.50, p<0.001). CONCLUSION NSES disparity might be contributing to the burden of overweight/obesity. Further studies are warranted, including whether addressing NSES disparity could reduce the risk of overweight/obesity. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42017063889.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimels Hussien Mohammed
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Tesfa Dejenie Habtewold
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Nursing, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Molla Birhanu
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Ahmad Esmaillzadeh
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
- Department of Community Nutrition, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
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22
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Abuzerr S, Nasseri S, Yunesian M, Hadi M, Mahvi AH, Nabizadeh R, Mustafa AA. Prevalence of diarrheal illness and healthcare-seeking behavior by age-group and sex among the population of Gaza strip: a community-based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:704. [PMID: 31174512 PMCID: PMC6555956 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Gaza strip, diarrhea is one of main reasons for children visiting primary healthcare centers. Hence, we investigate predictors of the diarrheal illness and health care-seeking behavior among different age groups. METHODS This community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from August 2017 to June 2018 among 1857 households. A pretested structured questionnaire included information about socio-demographic, sanitation, hygiene, source of water, diarrheal illness, and seeking healthcare in households was administered to head of household. To achieve representativeness for the five Gaza's governorates, a cluster random sampling was applied. RESULTS Of the 1857 household's heads, 421 (22.7%) reported an episode of diarrhea during the 48 h preceding the interview resulting an overall prevalence rate of 3.8 per 100 individuals. The prevalence of diarrhea was statistical significant greater in males (5.4/100) compared to females (1.3/100) in all age groups (p < 0.05). Socio-demographic, economic, water, sanitation, and hygiene factors were predictors of the diarrheal illness and seeking of non-professional healthcare for diarrhea illness treatment among. A transition behavior from professional to non-professional and vice versa in seeking healthcare in each diarrheal episode was found. CONCLUSIONS We recommend improving the status of water, sanitation, and hygiene in the Gaza strip's households to reduce diarrhea among the population of Gaza strip. Community sensitization about the importance of seeking care at primary health centers because treatment of children is available for free or in low costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Simin Nasseri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Research Methodology and Data Analysis, Institute for Environmental Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Hadi
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Mahvi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Nabizadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ayman Abu Mustafa
- Department of Research, Directorate General of Human Resources Development, Ministry of Health, Gaza Strip, Palestine
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23
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Abuzerr S, Nasseri S, Yunesian M, Hadi M, Mahvi AH, Nabizadeh R, Mustafa AA. Household drinking water safety among the population of Gaza Strip, Palestine: knowledge, attitudes, practices, and satisfaction. Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 2019. [DOI: 10.2166/washdev.2019.134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
A descriptive cross-sectional study employing a structured questionnaire was employed to assess knowledge, attitude, practice, and satisfaction (KAPS) of Gaza's community on issues related to household drinking water safety. The results showed that of 1,857 household heads, 1,621 (87.3%) were males, with the majority (967, 52.1%) having a university educational level. Of surveyed households, 744 (40.1%) consisted of 5–7 persons and 885 (47.7%) of the households resided in refugee camps. Mean percentages for KAPS were 82 ± 15.5%, 64.9 ± 39.7%, 53.2 ± 14.1%, and 37.3 ± 26.56%, respectively. There were statistically significant associations between some sociodemographic variables and mean percentage of KAPS scores. Educational level was the only variable significantly associated (p < 0.05) with all mean KAPS scores. There was a significant positive linear correlation between knowledge-attitude (r = 0.362, p < 0.05), but a significant negative linear correlation between knowledge-practice (r = −0.070, p < 0.05) was also observed. Therefore, the Local Government Authority (LGA) should arrange community awareness campaigns on the importance of safety and hygiene measures of drinking water storage. Furthermore, and due to the poor financial capabilities of the LGA in Gaza, it is highly recommended that LGA contact relevant international donors in order to support programs aiming at improving household water supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Simin Nasseri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Research Methodology and Data Analysis, Institute for Environmental Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Hadi
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Mahvi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Nabizadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ayman Abu Mustafa
- Department of Research, Directorate General of Human Resources Development, Ministry of Health, Gaza Strip, Palestine
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24
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Arabzadeh N, Mohammadi A, Darwish M, Abuzerr S. Construction of a TiO
2
–Fe
3
O
4
‐decorated molecularly imprinted polymer nanocomposite for tartrazine degradation: Response surface methodology modeling and optimization. J CHIN CHEM SOC-TAIP 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/jccs.201800302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naghmeh Arabzadeh
- Department of Drug and Food Control, Faculty of PharmacyTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Ali Mohammadi
- Department of Drug and Food Control, Faculty of PharmacyTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, International CampusTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Faculty of PharmacyTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
| | - Maher Darwish
- Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, International CampusTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
- Department of PharmacyAl‐Safwa University College Karbala Iraq
| | - Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Public Health, International CampusTehran University of Medical Sciences Tehran Iran
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25
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Abuzerr S, Darwish M, Mahvi AH. Simultaneous removal of cationic methylene blue and anionic reactive red 198 dyes using magnetic activated carbon nanoparticles: equilibrium, and kinetics analysis. Water Sci Technol 2018; 2017:534-545. [PMID: 29851406 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2018.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
For the simultaneous adsorption of cationic dye (methylene blue, MB) and anionic dye (reactive red 198, RR198) from aqueous solution, magnetic activated carbon (MAC) nanocomposite as a promising adsorbent was prepared and used. The concentration of MB at different time intervals was determined using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer while the concentration of RR198 was determined using a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. The effect of solution pH, contact time, adsorbent amount, and dye concentration were investigated. Also, both kinetic and isotherm experiments were studied. The optimum pH was 10 and 5.5 for adsorption of MB and RR198, respectively, and the equilibrium status was achieved after 120 min. The adsorption kinetics was controlled by the pseudo-second order kinetic model more than pseudo-first order. The best-fitted isotherms were Freundlich and Langmuir models for MB and RR198, respectively. The higher values of Freundlich adsorption capacity (Kf) for MB in comparison with RR198 refer to MAC affinity to remove cationic dyes more than anionic dyes. Apparently, there was no substantial change in the adsorption efficiency among the 10 adsorption-desorption cycles. Overall, MAC can be considered as an effective and efficient viable adsorbent for cationic and anionic dyes removal from industrial wastewaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer Abuzerr
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran E-mail: ; Ministry of Health, Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories
| | - Maher Darwish
- Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Mahvi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Public Health, International Campus, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran E-mail: ; Center for Solid Waste Research, Institute for Environmental Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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