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Elshami M, Jaber I, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Jabr H, Ubaiat S, Tuffaha A, Khader S, Khraishi R, Arafeh ZA, Al-Madhoun S, Alqattaa A, Yaseen A, El Hadi AA, Barhoush O, Hijazy M, Eleyan T, Alser A, Hziema AA, Shatat A, Almakhtoob F, Mohamad B, Farhat W, Abuamra Y, Mousa H, Adawi R, Musallam A, Albarqi SI, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Common misconceptions and myths about ovarian cancer causation: a national cross-sectional study from palestine. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1027. [PMID: 38609950 PMCID: PMC11015600 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18437-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women's inability to recognize ovarian cancer (OC) causation myths to be incorrect may lead to behavioral changes that could distract them from actual risk factors and impact their treatment decision making. This study examined Palestinian women's recognition of OC mythical causes, and explored factors associated with good recognition. METHODS A national cross-sectional study was conducted. Adult Palestinian women were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare facilities, and public areas in 11 governorates. The Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale was modified and utilized for data collection. Awareness level was determined based on the number of myths around OC causation recognized to be incorrect: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-13). RESULTS A total of 5618 participants agreed and completed the questionnaire out of 6095 approached (response rate = 92.1%), and 5411 questionnaires were included in the final analysis. The most recognized food-related myth was 'drinking from plastic bottles' (n = 1370, 25.3%) followed by 'eating burnt food' (n = 1298, 24.0%). The least recognized food-related myth was 'eating food containing additives' (n = 611, 11.3%). The most recognized food-unrelated myth was 'having a physical trauma' (n = 2899, 53.6%), whereas the least recognized was 'using mobile phones' (n = 1347, 24.9%). Only 273 participants (5.1%) had good awareness of OC causation myths as incorrect. Earning higher monthly incomes as well as visiting governmental healthcare facilities were associated with a decrease in the likelihood of exhibiting good awareness. CONCLUSION The overall recognition of OC causation myths was low. Addressing mythical beliefs should be included in OC prevention strategies and public health interventions to improve women's understanding of OC risk factors versus mythical causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, 44106, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Inas Jaber
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | - Sara Ubaiat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Bethlehem, Palestine
| | | | - Salma Khader
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Reem Khraishi
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Aya Alqattaa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areej Yaseen
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Barhoush
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Maysun Hijazy
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Tamara Eleyan
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Amal Abu Hziema
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Amany Shatat
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Balqees Mohamad
- Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières), Hebron, Palestine
| | - Walaa Farhat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University-Gaza, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Yasmeen Abuamra
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University-Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Hanaa Mousa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Reem Adawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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2
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Elshami M, Sawafta N, Mansour A, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Abukmail H, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Aqel W, Nairoukh R, Kittaneh R, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghma M, Aljbour J, Elian REM, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Albarqi SI, Bottcher B, Abu-El-Noor N. Anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible lung cancer symptoms and barriers to timely presentation in Palestine: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:183. [PMID: 38326766 PMCID: PMC10848550 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11935-1] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer (LC) has poor survival outcomes mainly due to diagnosis at late stages. This study explored the anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible LC symptoms and barriers to early presentation in Palestine. METHODS This cross-sectional study recruited adult participants from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces of 11 governorates using convenience sampling. A modified, translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess LC symptom awareness, the time needed to seek medical advice and barriers to early presentation. RESULTS A total of 4762 participants were included. The proportion that would immediately seek medical advice for possible LC symptoms varied according to the symptoms' nature. For respiratory symptoms, this ranged from 15.0% for 'painful cough' to 37.0% for 'coughing up blood'. For non-respiratory symptoms, this ranged from '4.2% for 'unexplained loss of appetite' to 13.8% for 'changes in the shape of fingers or nails'. Participants with good LC symptom awareness were more likely to seek medical advice within a week of recognizing most LC symptoms. About 13.0% would delay their visit to see a doctor after recognizing an LC symptom. The most reported barriers were emotional with 'disliking the visit to healthcare facilities' (59.8%) as the leading barrier. CONCLUSION LC respiratory symptoms were more likely to prompt early seeking of medical advice. Good LC symptom awareness was associated with a higher likelihood of help-seeking within a week. Educational interventions are needed to promote LC awareness and address the perceived barriers to early presentation in low-resource settings, such as Palestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
- Ministry of Health, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Abukmail
- International Medical Corps, Gaza, Palestine
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hanan Shurrab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | | | - Wafa Aqel
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roba Nairoukh
- Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | - Obaida Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghma
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jumana Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan E M Elian
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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Elshami M, Qawasmi MA, Ghithan RJ, Al-Slaibi I, Alser M, Shurrab NR, Ismail IO, Mahfouz II, AbdulQader Fannon A, Hawa MR, Giacaman N, Ahmaro M, Okshiya HM, Zaatreh RK, AbuKhalil WA, Usrof FD, Melhim NK, Madbouh RJ, Abu Hziema HJ, Abed-Allateef Lahlooh R, Ubaiat SN, Jaffal NA, Alawna RK, Abed SN, Abuzahra BN, Abu Kwaik AJ, Dodin MH, Taha RO, Alashqar DM, Mobarak RAA, Smerat T, Albarqi SI, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Barriers to Timely Seeking of Breast Cancer Care Among Palestinian Women: A Cross-Sectional Study. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300373. [PMID: 38386955 PMCID: PMC10898679 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00373] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Examining the association of breast cancer (BC) symptom awareness with time to help seeking and exploring barriers to timely presentation may enhance the effectiveness of BC awareness campaigns and early detection efforts. This study aimed to assess the anticipated time for seeking medical advice when experiencing a potential BC symptom among women in Palestine and to identify their barriers to early presentation. MATERIALS AND METHODS A convenience sampling method was used to recruit adult women from hospitals, primary health care facilities, and public areas across 11 governorates in Palestine. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated BC Awareness Measure was used. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: sociodemographic information, recognition of 13 BC symptoms and reporting time for seeking medical advice, and barriers to early presentation. RESULTS A total of 5,257 questionnaires were included. The proportion of participants who would seek medical advice immediately varied on the basis of the nature of BC symptoms. For symptoms related to the breast, the proportion ranged from 25.7% for redness of the breast skin to 53.5% for a lump or thickening in the breast. For symptoms related to the nipple, the proportion ranged from 30.7% for nipple rash to 48.0% for discharge or bleeding from the nipple. Exhibiting good BC symptom awareness was associated with a higher likelihood of seeking medical advice within a week for all BC symptoms. Emotional barriers were the most frequently reported barriers. There was no association between increasing levels of BC awareness and reporting fewer or more barriers. CONCLUSION The nature of BC symptoms had an impact on help-seeking behaviors. Participants with good BC symptom awareness were more likely to seek medical advice earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Malak Ayman Qawasmi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
| | | | | | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Manar Ahmaro
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Faculty of Health Sciences Master of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nour Ali Jaffal
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tasneem Smerat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Palestine Polytechnic University, Hebron, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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Elshami M, Abukmail H, Thalji M, Al-Slaibi I, Alser M, Radaydeh A, Alfuqaha A, Khader S, Khatib L, Fannoun N, Ahmad B, Kassab L, Khrishi H, Elhussaini D, Abed N, Nammari A, Abdallah T, Alqudwa Z, Idais S, Tanbouz G, Hajajreh M, Selmiyh HA, Abo-Hajouj Z, Hebi H, Zamel M, Skaik RN, Hammoud L, Rjoub S, Ayesh H, Rjoub T, Zakout R, Alser A, Albarqi SI, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Myths and common misbeliefs about cervical cancer causation among Palestinian women: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:189. [PMID: 38229049 PMCID: PMC10790379 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17733-5] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer (CC) myths and beliefs can negatively impact women's preventive behaviors, including vaccination against human papillomavirus and having regular screening tests. This study aimed to examine awareness of Palestinian women about myths related to CC causation and investigated factors associated with good awareness. METHODS A national cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit adult Palestinian women from hospitals, primary healthcare facilities, and public areas in 11 Palestinian governorates. A translated-into-Arabic version of the Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale was used to collect data. Awareness level was determined based on the number of CC myths around CC causation recognized to be incorrect: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-13). RESULTS A total of 7058 questionnaires were included. Myths unrelated to food were more commonly recognized as incorrect compared to those related to food. The most recognized food-unrelated myth was 'having a physical trauma' (n = 3714, 52.6%), whereas the least recognized was 'using mobile phones' (n = 2238, 31.7%). The most recognized food-related myth was 'drinking from plastic bottles' (n = 2708, 38.4%), whereas the least recognized was 'eating food containing additives' (n = 1118, 15.8%). Only 575 participants (8.1%) displayed good awareness and promptly recognized at least 10 out of 13 myths around CC causation as incorrect. Factors associated with lower likelihood of displaying good awareness of myths around CC causation included living in the West Bank and Jerusalem, being married, widowed or divorced, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals or primary healthcare centers. CONCLUSIONS A very small proportion of Palestinian women recognized 10 or more myths around CC causes as incorrect. Initiatives addressing CC myths are needed in the Palestinian community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Hanan Abukmail
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- International Medical Corps, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Mariam Thalji
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | - Afnan Radaydeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Alaa Alfuqaha
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Salma Khader
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Lana Khatib
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nour Fannoun
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Alazhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Bisan Ahmad
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Hiba Khrishi
- Faculty of Dentistry and Dental Surgery, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Deniz Elhussaini
- Faculty of Medicine, Alazhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Nour Abed
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Aya Nammari
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Zaina Alqudwa
- Faculty of Medicine, Alazhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Idais
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
- Hebron Governmental Hospital, Hebron, Palestine
| | - Ghaid Tanbouz
- Faculty of Dentistry and Dental Surgery, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Haya Hebi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Manar Zamel
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | - Lama Hammoud
- Faculty of Dentistry and Dental Surgery, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Saba Rjoub
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Hadeel Ayesh
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Toqa Rjoub
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rawan Zakout
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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5
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Elshami M, Naji SA, Dwikat MF, Al-Slaibi I, Alser M, Ayyad M, Mohamad BM, Isleem WS, Shurrab A, Yaghi B, Qabaja YA, Hamdan FK, Sweity RR, Jneed RT, Assaf KA, Albandak ME, Hmaid MM, Awwad II, Alhabil BK, Alarda MN, Alsattari AS, Aboyousef MS, Aljbour OA, AlSharif R, Giacaman CT, Alnaga AY, Abu Nemer RM, Almadhoun NM, Skaik SM, Bottcher B, Abu-El-Noor N. Myths and Common Misbeliefs About Colorectal Cancer Causation in Palestine: A National Cross-Sectional Study. JCO Glob Oncol 2024; 10:e2300295. [PMID: 38166235 PMCID: PMC10803036 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore public awareness of myths around colorectal cancer (CRC) causation in Palestine and to examine factors associated with good awareness. MATERIALS AND METHODS Convenience sampling was used to recruit adult Palestinians from governmental hospitals, primary health care centers, and public spaces. Recognizing 13 myths around CRC causation was assessed using a translated-into-Arabic version of the Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale. Awareness level was determined based on the number of CRC mythical causes recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-13). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between sociodemographic characteristics and displaying good awareness. It adjusted for age group, sex, education, occupation, monthly income, residence, marital status, having chronic diseases, being a vegetarian, knowing someone with cancer, and site of data collection. RESULTS Of 5,254 participants approached, 4,877 agreed to participate (response rate, 92.3%). A total of 4,623 questionnaires were included in the final analysis: 2,700 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 1,923 from the Gaza Strip. Only 219 participants (4.7%) demonstrated good awareness of myths around CRC causation. WBJ participants were twice more likely than those from the Gaza Strip to display good recognition (5.9% v 3.1%). Male sex, living in the WBJ, and visiting hospitals were all associated with an increase in the likelihood of displaying good awareness. Conversely, knowing someone with cancer was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of displaying good awareness. Having a physical trauma was the most recognized CRC causation myth (n = 2,752, 59.5%), whereas eating food containing additives was the least (n = 456, 9.8%). CONCLUSION Only 4.7% displayed good ability to recognize myths around CRC causation. Future educational interventions are needed to help the public distinguish the evidence-based versus mythical causes of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Ayyad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Bashar Yaghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Khayria Ali Assaf
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Iyas Imad Awwad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rinad AlSharif
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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6
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Elshami M, Ismail IO, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Ghithan RJ, Usrof FD, Qawasmi MAM, Okshiya HM, Shurrab NRS, Mahfouz II, Fannon AA, Hawa MRM, Giacaman N, Ahmaro M, Zaatreh RK, AbuKhalil WA, Melhim NK, Madbouh RJ, Hziema HJA, Lahlooh RAA, Ubaiat SN, Jaffal NA, Alawna RK, Abed SN, Abuzahra BNA, Kwaik AJA, Dodin MH, Taha RO, Alashqar DM, Mobarak RAAF, Smerat T, Albarqi SI, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Common myths and misconceptions about breast cancer causation among Palestinian women: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2370. [PMID: 38031084 PMCID: PMC10688078 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17074-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discussion about breast cancer (BC) causation continues to be surrounded by a number of myths and misbeliefs. If efforts are misdirected towards reducing risk from false mythical causes, individuals might be less likely to consider and adopt risk-reducing behaviors for evidence-based BC causes. This national study aimed to assess the awareness of BC causation myths and misbeliefs among Palestinian women, and examine the factors associated with having good awareness. METHODS This national cross-sectional study recruited adult women from government hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 governorates in Palestine. A modified version of the Cancer Awareness Measure-Mythical Causes Scale was used to collect data. The level of awareness of BC causation myths was determined based on the number of myths recognized to be incorrect: poor (0-5), fair (6-10), or good (11-15). RESULTS A total of 5,257 questionnaires were included. Only 269 participants (5.1%) demonstrated good awareness (i.e., recognizing more than 10 out of 15 BC mythical causes). There were no notable differences in displaying good awareness between the main areas of Palestine, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank and Jerusalem (5.1% vs. 5.1%). Having chronic disease as well as visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers were associated with a decrease in the likelihood of displaying good awareness. Myths related to food were less frequently recognized as incorrect than food-unrelated myths. 'Eating burnt food' was the most recognized food-related myth (n = 1414, 26.9%), while 'eating food containing additives' was the least recognized (n = 599, 11.4%). 'Having a physical trauma' was the most recognized food-unrelated myth (n = 2795, 53.2%), whereas the least recognized was 'wearing tight bra' (n = 1018, 19.4%). CONCLUSIONS A very small proportion of Palestinian women could recognize 10 or more myths around BC causation. There is a substantial need to include clear information about BC causation in future educational interventions besides focusing on BC screening, signs and symptoms, and risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | | | - Mohammed Alser
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Manar Ahmaro
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nour Ali Jaffal
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tasneem Smerat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Palestine Polytechnic University, Hebron, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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7
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Elshami M, Al-Madhoun S, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Yaseen A, Tuffaha A, Jabr H, Ubaiat S, Khader S, Khraishi R, Jaber I, Arafeh ZA, Alqattaa A, Hadi AAE, Barhoush O, Hijazy M, Eleyan T, Alser A, Hziema AA, Shatat A, Almakhtoob F, Mohamad B, Farhat W, Abuamra Y, Mousa H, Adawi R, Musallam A, Albarqi SI, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible ovarian cancer symptoms and perceived barriers to early presentation among Palestinian women: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:975. [PMID: 37833659 PMCID: PMC10571332 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11484-z] [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: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several factors contribute to delayed presentation with ovarian cancer (OC) symptoms including poor symptom awareness and barriers to seeking help. This study explored the anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible OC symptoms and its association with OC symptom awareness. In addition, it examined perceived barriers that may delay help-seeking among Palestinian women. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult women (≥ 18 years) recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 Palestinian governorates. A modified version of the OC awareness measure was used to collect data in face-to-face interviews. The questionnaire comprised three sections: sociodemographic details, awareness of 11 OC symptoms and time to seek medical advice, and barriers to early presentation. RESULTS Of 6095 participants approached, 5618 completed the OCAM (response rate = 92.1%). The proportion of participants who would immediately seek medical advice for a possible OC symptom varied based on the symptom's nature. For OC symptoms with pain, the proportion that reported immediate seeking of medical advice ranged from 7.9% for 'persistent low back pain' to 13.6% for 'persistent pain in the pelvis'. For non-specific potential OC symptoms, the proportion that reported immediate seeking of medical advice ranged from 2.3% for 'feeling full persistently' to 15.8% for 'increased abdominal size on most days'. Good OC symptom awareness was associated with higher likelihood of seeking medical advice within a week from recognizing 10 out of 11 OC symptoms. Emotional barriers were the most common barriers with 'feeling scared' as the most reported barrier (n = 1512, 52.4%). Displaying good OC symptom awareness was associated with a lower likelihood of reporting ≥ 4 emotional barriers (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.38-0.98). CONCLUSION Participants with good OC symptom awareness were more likely to seek medical advice earlier and to display fewer emotional barriers. Establishing educational interventions to raise OC awareness may help in promoting earlier help-seeking and, thus, facilitate earlier diagnosis and improved prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | | | - Mohammed Alser
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Areej Yaseen
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Sara Ubaiat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Bethlehem, Palestine
| | - Salma Khader
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | - Reem Khraishi
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Inas Jaber
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Aya Alqattaa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Barhoush
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | - Maysun Hijazy
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Tamara Eleyan
- United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Gaza, Palestine
| | - Amany Alser
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Amal Abu Hziema
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Amany Shatat
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Balqees Mohamad
- Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres), Hebron, Palestine
| | - Walaa Farhat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Yasmeen Abuamra
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Hanaa Mousa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Reem Adawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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8
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Elshami M, Ayyad M, Hamdan FK, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Naji SA, Mohamad BM, Isleem WS, Shurrab A, Yaghi B, Qabaja YA, Dwikat MF, Sweity RR, Jneed RT, Assaf KA, Albandak ME, Hmaid MM, Awwad II, Alhabil BK, Alarda MN, Alsattari AS, Aboyousef MS, Aljbour OA, AlSharif R, Giacaman CT, Alnaga AY, Nemer RMA, Almadhoun NM, Skaik SM, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Perceived barriers to early presentation and symptom-specific time to seek medical advice for possible colorectal cancer symptoms among Palestinians. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6871. [PMID: 37105988 PMCID: PMC10140026 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34136-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored the anticipated time to seek medical advice for possible colorectal cancer (CRC) signs/symptoms and its association with CRC symptom awareness. In addition, it examined perceived barriers that may delay seeking medical advice. Palestinian adults were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 governorates. A modified, translated-into-Arabic version of the validated Bowel Cancer Awareness Measure was used. The questionnaire comprised three sections: sociodemographics, assessment of CRC symptom awareness and time to seek medical advice, and barriers to early presentation. A total of 4623 participants were included. The proportion that reported seeking immediate medical advice for possible CRC signs/symptoms with blood or mass ranged from 47.1% for 'blood in stools' to 59.5% for 'bleeding from back passage'. Less than half of the participants reported immediate seeking of medical advice for non-specific symptoms (ranging from 5.4% for 'loss of appetite' to 42.0% for 'anemia') and other gastrointestinal symptoms (ranging from 7.7% for 'feeling persistently full' to 35.7% for 'change in bowel habits'). Good CRC symptom awareness was associated with higher likelihood of seeking medical advice within a week from recognizing a CRC symptom. About 13.0% reported a delay to visit their doctor after recognizing a CRC symptom. The most reported barriers were practical with 'would try some herbs first' (50.9%) as the leading barrier. CRC symptoms with blood or mass prompted earlier help seeking. Participants with good CRC awareness were more likely to seek medical advice within a week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Mohammed Ayyad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in The Near East (UNRWA), Amman, Jordan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bashar Yaghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Khayria Ali Assaf
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Iyas Imad Awwad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rinad AlSharif
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Sondos Mahmoud Skaik
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds Abu Dis University Al-Azhar Branch of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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9
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Awareness of human papillomavirus and acceptability of the vaccine among women in Palestine: is it time for policy adjustment? BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:352. [PMID: 35986304 PMCID: PMC9389825 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01930-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progress has been made in the reduction of morbidity and mortality of cervical cancer by the implementation of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programs. This study aimed to assess the awareness of Palestinian women about HPV as well as their knowledge and acceptability of the HPV vaccine and to examine the factors associated with good awareness. Methods This was a national cross-sectional study. Adult women were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 Palestinian governorates using convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. For each correctly answered question, one point was given. The total score was calculated and categorized into poor (0–10) and good awareness (11–21). Results The questionnaire was completed by 7223 women out of 8086 who were approached (response rate = 89.3%). A total of 7058 questionnaires were included in the final analysis; 4403 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2655 from the Gaza Strip. Women recruited from the Gaza Strip were younger, getting lower monthly incomes, and with fewer chronic diseases than women recruited from the WBJ. Only 33 women (0.5%) displayed good awareness of HPV and its vaccine with 0.7% of women from WBJ and only 0.2% of women from the Gaza Strip. Completing post-secondary education, being employed or a student, and having a higher monthly income were associated with an increase in the likelihood of having good awareness. Among women who had heard of HPV (n = 571, 8.1%), only 46 women (8.1%) reported familiarity with its vaccine. Women from the WBJ were more likely than women from the Gaza Strip to have heard about the HPV vaccine (0.9% vs. 0.2%). Most women agreed to receive the HPV vaccine themselves or for their daughters if it was given without cost or with a co-payment. No differences were found in the likelihood of agreeing to receive the HPV vaccine among women in the WBJ versus the Gaza Strip. Conclusion The overall awareness of HPV and its vaccine was extremely low. Inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national immunization program could change this, especially as the HPV vaccine appeared to be acceptable.
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10
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Elshami M, Dwikat MF, Al-Slaibi I, Alser M, Mohamad BM, Isleem WS, Shurrab A, Yaghi B, Qabaja YA, Naji SA, Hmdan FK, Ayyad MM, Sweity RR, Jneed RT, Assaf KA, Albandak ME, Hmaid MM, Awwad II, Alhabil BK, Alarda MN, Alsattari AS, Aboyousef MS, Aljbour OA, AlSharif R, Giacaman CT, Alnaga AY, Abu Nemer RM, Almadhoun NM, Skaik SM, Bottcher B, Abu-El-Noor N. Awareness of Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors in Palestine: Where Do We Stand? JCO Glob Oncol 2022; 8:e2200070. [PMID: 35696626 PMCID: PMC9225594 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess the public awareness level of colorectal cancer (CRC) risk factors in Palestine and identify factors associated with the good awareness level. A national study in Palestine finds low awareness of colorectal cancer risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Wejdan S. Isleem
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Bashar Yaghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Shoruq A. Naji
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Fatima K. Hmdan
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Remah T. Jneed
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Khayria A. Assaf
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Iyas I. Awwad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Belal K. Alhabil
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Marah N. Alarda
- Faculty of Dentistry, Arab American University, Palestine, Jenin
| | | | | | - Omar A. Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Rinad AlSharif
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Christy T. Giacaman
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bethlehem University, Bethlehem, Palestine
| | - Ali Y. Alnaga
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ranin M. Abu Nemer
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Arab American University, Jenin, Palestine
| | | | - Sondos M. Skaik
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds Abu Dis University Al-Azhar Branch of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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11
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Elshami M, Ayyad M, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Ahmed Naji S, Mohamad BM, Sudki Isleem W, Shurrab A, Yaghi B, Qabaja YA, Hmdan FK, Fuad Dwikat M, Raed Sweity R, Jneed RT, Assaf KA, Albandak ME, Madhat Hmaid M, Awwad II, Khalil Alhabil B, Alarda MN, Saleh Alsattari A, Aboyousef MS, Aljbour OA, AlSharif R, Teddy Giacaman C, Alnaga AY, Nemer RMA, Almadhoun NM, Mahmoud Skaik S, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of colorectal cancer signs and symptoms: a national cross-sectional study from Palestine. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:866. [PMID: 35501803 PMCID: PMC9063349 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13285-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In low-resource settings, the awareness level of colorectal cancer (CRC) signs and symptoms plays a crucial role in early detection and treatment. This study examined the public awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms in Palestine and investigated the factors associated with good awareness. METHODS This was a national cross-sectional study conducted at hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces in 11 governorates across Palestine between July 2019 and March 2020. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated bowel cancer awareness measure (BoCAM) was utilized to assess the awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms. For each correctly identified CRC sign/symptom, one point was given. The total score (ranging from 0 to 12) was calculated and categorized into three categories based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0 to 4), fair (5 to 8), and good awareness (9 to 12). RESULTS Of 5254 approached, 4877 participants completed the questionnaire (response rate = 92.3%). A total of 4623 questionnaires were included in the analysis; 1923 were from the Gaza Strip and 2700 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ). Participants from the Gaza Strip were younger, gained lower monthly income, and had less chronic diseases than participants in the WBJ. The most frequently identified CRC sign/symptom was 'lump in the abdomen' while the least was 'pain in the back passage'. Only 1849 participants (40.0%, 95% CI: 39.0%-41.0%) had a good awareness level of CRC signs/symptoms. Participants living in the WBJ were more likely to have good awareness than participants living in the Gaza Strip (42.2% vs. 37.0%; p = 0.002). Knowing someone with cancer (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.21-1.55; p < 0.001) and visiting hospitals (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.25-1.70; p < 0.001) were both associated with higher likelihood of having good awareness. However, male gender (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.68-0.94; p = 0.006) and following a vegetarian diet (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48-0.73; p < 0.001) were both associated with lower likelihood of having good awareness. CONCLUSION Less than half of the study participants had a good awareness level of CRC signs and symptoms. Future education interventions are needed to improve public awareness of CRC in Palestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Mohammed Ayyad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bashar Yaghi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Khayria Ali Assaf
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | | | | | - Iyas Imad Awwad
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rinad AlSharif
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | - Sondos Mahmoud Skaik
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds Abu Dis University Al-Azhar Branch of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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12
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Elshami M, Al-Slaibi I, Ghithan RJ, Alser M, Shurrab NR, Ismail IO, Mahfouz II, Fannon AA, Qawasmi MA, Hawa MR, Giacaman N, Ahmaro M, Okshiya HM, Zaatreh RK, AbuKhalil WA, Usrof FD, Melhim NK, Madbouh RJ, Hziema HJA, Lahlooh RAA, Ubaiat SN, Jaffal NA, Alawna RK, Abed SN, Abuzahra BN, Kwaik AJA, Dodin MH, Taha RO, Alashqar DM, Mobarak RAA, Smerat T, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Women's awareness of breast cancer symptoms: a national cross-sectional study from Palestine. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:801. [PMID: 35449048 PMCID: PMC9027340 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13224-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Early diagnosis is crucial to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer (BC). Awareness of BC symptoms plays a key role in this. This study aimed to evaluate the Palestinian women’s awareness of BC symptoms and determine factors associated with good awareness. Methods This was a national cross-sectional study conducted from July 2019 to March 2020 in Palestine. Convenience sampling was used to recruit adult women from hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces located in 11 governorates. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated BC awareness measure was utilized for data collection. The awareness level was categorized based on the number of symptoms recognized into: poor (0 to 4), fair (5 to 9), and good (10 to 13). Results Of 6269 approached, 5434 participants completed the questionnaire (response rate = 86.7%). A total of 5257 questionnaires were included in the analysis: 2551 from the Gaza Strip and 2706 from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ). Participants living in the WBJ were more likely to be older, have higher monthly income, and suffer from more chronic diseases than participants living in the Gaza Strip. The most frequently identified BC symptom was ‘lump or thickening in the breast’ (n = 4887, 92.9%) followed by ‘lump or thickening under the armpit’ (n = 4394, 83.6%). The least frequently identified symptoms were ‘pulling in of the nipple’ (n = 2665, 50.7%) and ‘change in the position of the nipple’ (n = 2710, 51.6%). A total of 2191 participants (41.7%) demonstrated good awareness of BC symptoms. Participants from the Gaza Strip were more likely than participants from the WBJ to have good awareness (47.0.0% vs. 36.7%). On the multivariable analysis, being ≥ 40 years, completing a post-secondary education, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers were all associated with an increase in the likelihood of having good awareness. However, living in the WBJ was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of having good awareness. Conclusion Less than half of women included in this study showed good awareness of BC symptoms. More targeted educational interventions are needed to promote Palestinian women’s awareness of BC symptoms to facilitate early diagnosis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13224-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA. .,Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Malak Ayman Qawasmi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
| | | | | | - Manar Ahmaro
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nour Ali Jaffal
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tasneem Smerat
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Palestine Polytechnic University, Hebron, Palestine
| | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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13
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Elshami M, Abukmail H, Aqel W, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Nairoukh R, Mansour A, Kittaneh R, Sawafta N, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghmeh M, Aljbour J, Elian R, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of Palestinians about lung cancer symptoms: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:135. [PMID: 35395762 PMCID: PMC8991725 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of lung cancer (LC) cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Poor awareness of LC symptoms is a contributor to late diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the awareness of LC symptoms among Palestinians, and to examine the factors associated with displaying good awareness. METHODS Participants were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers and public spaces using convenience sampling. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess recognition of 14 LC symptoms. One point was given for each recognized symptom. The total score was calculated and categorized based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-14). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between participant characteristics and having good awareness. The multivariable analysis adjusted for age-group, gender, education, monthly income, occupation, residence, marital status, any chronic disease, knowing someone with cancer, smoking history, and site of data collection. RESULTS Of 5174 potential participants approached, 4817 completed the questionnaire (response rate = 93.1%) and 4762 were included in the final analysis. Of these, 2742 (56.9%) were from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2020 (43.1%) were from the Gaza Strip. Participants from the WBJ were older, had higher monthly income but lower education, and suffered from more chronic diseases. The most recognized respiratory LC symptom was 'worsening in an existing cough'(n = 3884, 81.6%) while the least recognized was 'a cough that does not go away for two or three weeks'(n = 2951, 62.0%). The most recognized non-respiratory LC symptom was 'persistent tiredness or lack of energy'(n = 3205, 67.3%) while the least recognized was 'persistent shoulder pain'(n = 1170, 24.6%). A total of 2466 participants (51.8%) displayed good awareness of LC symptoms. Participants from both the Gaza Strip and the WBJ had similar likelihoods to have good awareness levels. Factors associated with a higher likelihood to display good awareness included female gender, having post-secondary education, being employed, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers. CONCLUSION About half of the study participants displayed a good level of awareness of LC symptoms. Further improvement in public awareness of LC symptoms by educational interventions might reduce LC mortality by promoting early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. .,Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.
| | - Hanan Abukmail
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine.,Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Wafa Aqel
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Shurrab
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- Department of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | | | - Roba Nairoukh
- Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Obaida Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghmeh
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jomana Aljbour
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan Elian
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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14
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Elshami M, Abukmail H, Aqel W, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Shurrab H, Qassem S, Usrof FD, Alruzayqat M, Nairoukh R, Mansour A, Kittaneh R, Sawafta N, Habes YMN, Ghanim O, Aabed WA, Omar O, Daraghmeh M, Aljbour J, Elian R, Zuhour A, Habes H, Al-Dadah M, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of Palestinians about lung cancer symptoms: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Pulm Med 2022; 22:135. [PMID: 35395762 PMCID: PMC8991725 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1 10.1186/s12890-022-01923-1] [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] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of lung cancer (LC) cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Poor awareness of LC symptoms is a contributor to late diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the awareness of LC symptoms among Palestinians, and to examine the factors associated with displaying good awareness. METHODS Participants were recruited from hospitals, primary healthcare centers and public spaces using convenience sampling. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated LC awareness measure was used to assess recognition of 14 LC symptoms. One point was given for each recognized symptom. The total score was calculated and categorized based on the number of symptoms recognized: poor (0-4), fair (5-9), and good (10-14). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association between participant characteristics and having good awareness. The multivariable analysis adjusted for age-group, gender, education, monthly income, occupation, residence, marital status, any chronic disease, knowing someone with cancer, smoking history, and site of data collection. RESULTS Of 5174 potential participants approached, 4817 completed the questionnaire (response rate = 93.1%) and 4762 were included in the final analysis. Of these, 2742 (56.9%) were from the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and 2020 (43.1%) were from the Gaza Strip. Participants from the WBJ were older, had higher monthly income but lower education, and suffered from more chronic diseases. The most recognized respiratory LC symptom was 'worsening in an existing cough'(n = 3884, 81.6%) while the least recognized was 'a cough that does not go away for two or three weeks'(n = 2951, 62.0%). The most recognized non-respiratory LC symptom was 'persistent tiredness or lack of energy'(n = 3205, 67.3%) while the least recognized was 'persistent shoulder pain'(n = 1170, 24.6%). A total of 2466 participants (51.8%) displayed good awareness of LC symptoms. Participants from both the Gaza Strip and the WBJ had similar likelihoods to have good awareness levels. Factors associated with a higher likelihood to display good awareness included female gender, having post-secondary education, being employed, knowing someone with cancer, and visiting hospitals and primary healthcare centers. CONCLUSION About half of the study participants displayed a good level of awareness of LC symptoms. Further improvement in public awareness of LC symptoms by educational interventions might reduce LC mortality by promoting early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- grid.443867.a0000 0000 9149 4843Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 7100, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA ,Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Hanan Abukmail
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine ,grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Wafa Aqel
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Alser
- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | | | - Hanan Shurrab
- grid.133800.90000 0001 0436 6817Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Shahd Qassem
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Faten Darwish Usrof
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XDepartment of a Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine
| | - Malik Alruzayqat
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Roba Nairoukh
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Ahmad Mansour
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rahaf Kittaneh
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Nursing, An Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nawras Sawafta
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Yousef M. N. Habes
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Obaida Ghanim
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Wesam Almajd Aabed
- grid.133800.90000 0001 0436 6817Faculty of Dentistry, Al Azhar University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Ola Omar
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Motaz Daraghmeh
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Jomana Aljbour
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Razan Elian
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Areen Zuhour
- grid.11942.3f0000 0004 0631 5695Faculty of Medicine, Al Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Haneen Habes
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XFaculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Al-Dadah
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Nasser Abu-El-Noor
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Nursing, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Bettina Bottcher
- grid.442890.30000 0000 9417 110XFaculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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15
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Zhang Q, Ding J, Wang Y, He L, Xue F. Tumor microenvironment manipulates chemoresistance in ovarian cancer (Review). Oncol Rep 2022; 47:102. [PMID: 35362546 DOI: 10.3892/or.2022.8313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the leading cause of mortality among the various types of gynecological cancer, and >75% of the cases are diagnosed at a late stage. Although platinum‑based chemotherapy is able to help the majority of patients to achieve remission, the disease frequently recurs and acquires chemoresistance, resulting in high mortality rates. The complexity of OC therapy is not solely governed by the intrinsic characteristics of the OC cells (OCCs) themselves, but is also largely dependent on the dynamic communication between OCCs and various components of their surrounding microenvironment. The present review attempts to describe the mutual interplay between OCCs and their surrounding microenvironment. Tumor‑associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal cell types in OC. Soluble factors derived from CAFs steadily nourish both the OCCs and TAMs, facilitating their proliferation and immune evasion. ATP binding cassette transporters facilitate the extrusion of cytotoxic molecules, eventually promoting cell survival and multidrug resistance. Extracellular vesicles fulfill their role as genetic exchange vectors, transferring cargo from the donor cells to the recipient cells and propagating oncogenic signaling. A greater understanding of the vital roles of the tumor microenvironment will allow researchers to be open to the prospect of developing therapeutic approaches for combating OC chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoling Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Jiashan Ding
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Linsheng He
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
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16
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Elshami M, Tuffaha A, Yaseen A, Alser M, Al-Slaibi I, Jabr H, Ubaiat S, Khader S, Khraishi R, Jaber I, Abu Arafeh Z, Al-Madhoun S, Alqattaa A, Abd El Hadi A, Barhoush O, Hijazy M, Eleyan T, Alser A, Abu Hziema A, Shatat A, Almakhtoob F, Mohamad B, Farhat W, Abuamra Y, Mousa H, Adawi R, Musallam A, Abu-El-Noor N, Bottcher B. Awareness of ovarian cancer risk and protective factors: A national cross-sectional study from Palestine. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265452. [PMID: 35312720 PMCID: PMC8936444 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Having a good awareness of ovarian cancer (OC) risk and protective factors could facilitate early diagnosis. This study aimed to assess Palestinian women's awareness about OC risk and protective factors and to identify the factors associated with having good awareness. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to March 2020 in the two main areas of Palestine: the West Bank and Jerusalem (WBJ) and the Gaza Strip. A translated-into-Arabic version of the validated OC awareness measure was utilized. Adult women attending hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public spaces at 11 governorates were invited to participate. The awareness level was categorized based on the number of factors recognized: poor (0 to 5), fair (6 to 10) and good (11 to 15). RESULTS Of the 6095 women approached, 5618 agreed and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 92.1%). The final analysis included 5411 questionnaires. The most identified modifiable OC risk factor was 'being a smoker' (n = 4024, 74.4%), whereas the least identified was 'having in vitro fertilization treatment' (n = 1652, 30.5%). The most identified non-modifiable OC risk factor was 'having ovarian cysts' (n = 3136, 58.0%), whereas the least identified was 'having endometriosis' (n = 1880, 34.7%). The most identified OC protective factor was 'breastfeeding' (n = 4770, 88.2%), whereas the least identified was 'using the pill for a long time' (n = 930, 17.2%). Only 820 women (15.2%) displayed good awareness of OC risk and protective factors. Women from the Gaza Strip were slightly more likely than women from the WBJ to have good awareness (16.4% vs. 14.2%). In contrast, post-secondary education, higher monthly income, being married, and knowing someone with cancer were associated with an increase in the likelihood of displaying good awareness. CONCLUSION The overall awareness of OC risk and protective factors in this study was low. Educational interventions are needed to improve Palestinian women's awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamedraed Elshami
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- Ministry of Health, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Aya Tuffaha
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Areej Yaseen
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Hadeel Jabr
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Sara Ubaiat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Bethlehem, Palestine
| | - Salma Khader
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Reem Khraishi
- Faculty of Medicine, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Inas Jaber
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Aya Alqattaa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | - Ola Barhoush
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Maysun Hijazy
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Tamara Eleyan
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | - Amal Abu Hziema
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Amany Shatat
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | | | | | - Walaa Farhat
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Yasmeen Abuamra
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar university-Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Hanaa Mousa
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Reem Adawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | | | | | - Bettina Bottcher
- Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine
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