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Mohammad MS, Aburezq M, AlSaeed N, Abdullah Z, Fayrouz S, Almunefi K, Bahdila D. Electronic nicotine delivery system use and its relation to waterpipe smoking among youth in seven Arab countries. Prev Med 2024; 182:107945. [PMID: 38574972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2024.107945] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) use and Waterpipe Tobacco Smoking (WTS) are reported to be a growing strain of tobacco epidemic among youth in the Arab world. Therefore, we aimed to: (1) estimate the regional prevalence of ENDS use among youth in 7 Arab countries and, (2) to explore the bidirectional relationship between ENDS use and WTS among Arab adolescents. METHODS We analyzed data from the World Health Organization Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS 2014-2018) of 18,536 schoolchildren aged 12-16 from Iraq, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Tunisia, and Yemen. The weighted prevalence was calculated to generate nationally representative estimates. Adjusted multilevel logistic regression models were conducted to assess the association between ENDS use and WTS. RESULTS The pooled weighted prevalence of ENDS use was 9.5%. Higher odds of ENDS use were significantly associated with WTS (AOR: 5.26, 95%CI: 4.28-6.46), smoking conventional cigarettes (AOR: 1.54, 95%CI: 1.23-1.94) and first tobacco use prior to the age of 12 (AOR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.14-1.72). Females and children who were taught in school the dangers of tobacco had less odds of using ENDS. CONCLUSION WTS was associated with increased odds of ENDS use by >5 folds, and vice versa. Tobacco consumption at age younger than 12 years was associated with higher odds of ENDS use, but less odds of WTS. Females and those who were taught in school the dangers of tobacco were less likely to report ENDS use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad S Mohammad
- Department of General Dentistry, North Sabah Al-Salem Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Maryam Aburezq
- Department of Pediatric, Farwanyia Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Noura AlSaeed
- Department of Pediatric, Farwanyia Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Zahraa Abdullah
- Department of Pediatric, Amiri Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Sarah Fayrouz
- Department of Pediatric, Jaber Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Khalifa Almunefi
- Department of Pediatric, Amiri Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait
| | - Dania Bahdila
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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Hammoudi Halat D, Alsous MM, Al-Jumaili AA, Malki A, Ahmed KK, Hamad A, Darwish R, Thomas D, Bukhatwa S, Khdour M, Alkhudair N, Al Balushi AA, Khalifa S, Alsharif NZ, Rahal M. Pharmacy faculty experiences with student academic entitlement: a multinational study from the Arab world. BMC Med Educ 2024; 24:470. [PMID: 38679702 PMCID: PMC11057156 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05402-5] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Academic Entitlement (AE) is the expectation by students to receive high grades or preferential treatment without significant effort. Exploring AE from faculty perspective has not been investigated in Arab colleges of pharmacy. The aim of this study was to explore experiences and perceptions towards student AE among pharmacy faculty in the Arab World. A cross-sectional, self-administered, anonymous, electronic survey was sent to pharmacy faculty across pharmacy colleges in Arab countries. The survey collected demographic data, an AE measure including 17 items reflecting seven AE components, and faculty perceptions and perceived reasons for AE. A total of 345 responses were collected. The AE level was moderate (46.05 ±7.29), and the highest scores among its components were for customer service expectation (62%) and responsibility avoidance (59%). In multiple linear regression, AE showed positive significant association with faculty in clinical pharmacy departments and those having fewer years of experience. Most common complaints heard by faculty from students were requests to turn in assignments late (90%), while the most common communication issues faculty faced with students were unprofessional verbal communication (58%) and unprofessional messages on social media (57%). Poor admission criteria (40%) and existence of multiple private colleges of pharmacy (37%) were the most common perceived reasons for AE by participating faculty. This study reveals moderate AE experienced by pharmacy faculty in the Arab World, as well as common complaints, communication issues, and AE reasons. In collaboration with other stakeholders, faculty play an important role in indicating expectations from students regarding AE, and research is warranted to check if such interventions reduce AE among pharmacy students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mervat M Alsous
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Ahmed Malki
- Academic Quality Department, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Anas Hamad
- College of Pharmacy, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rula Darwish
- Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Dixon Thomas
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Bukhatwa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Maher Khdour
- Al-Quds University College of Pharmacy, Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Nora Alkhudair
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sherif Khalifa
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naser Z Alsharif
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese international University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Almuhaidib S, Alqahtani R, Alotaibi HF, Saeed A, Alnasrallah S, Alshamsi F, Alqahtani SA, Alhazzani W. Mapping the landscape of medical research in the Arab world countries: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis. Saudi Med J 2024; 45:387-396. [PMID: 38657984 DOI: 10.15537/smj.2024.45.4.20230968] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the productivity, performance, and impact of medical research in the Arab world countries. METHODS We carried out a bibliometric analysis using Clarivate Analytics databases from January 2017 to March 2023. We reported research productivity, national and international research collaboration patterns, impact of Arab medical research output compared to the global average, top medical journals publishing Arab-affiliated research, and performance of the most productive Arab institutions. RESULTS The Arab world contributed 2.72% to global medical research publication, with a citation impact of 11.98 compared to the global impact of 12.02. Qatar, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia led medical research publications per million population among Arab countries, ranking 26th, 36th, and 37th globally. Medical research publications increased by 87% annually from 2017-2022, with 70% of research originating from Saudi Arabia and Egypt. National collaborations accounted for 15% of Arab world publications, while international collaborations represented 66%. The median impact factor across the top 20 medical journals with Arab-affiliated authors was 5.14, with 50% being quartile one journals. The top 10 Arab-origin medical journals had a median impact factor of 3.13. Approximately 80% of the top 20 Arab institutions were academic, with a median publication count of 3,162.5 and a median citation impact of 14.5. CONCLUSION The study provides insights into the state of medical research in the Arab countries, indicating room for improvement in the region's medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadan Almuhaidib
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rawan Alqahtani
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Haifa F Alotaibi
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Asma Saeed
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Sahar Alnasrallah
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Fayez Alshamsi
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Saleh A Alqahtani
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Waleed Alhazzani
- From the Scientific Research Center (Almuhaidib, Alotaibi, Saeed, Alnasrallah, Alhazzani), Ministry of Defense Health Services, from the Department of Business Intelligence and Information Management (Alqahtani), Rumah General Hospital, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, from the Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (Alqahtani), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, from the Department of Critical Care (Alhazzani), College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from the Department of Internal Medicine (Alshamsi), College of Medicine and Health Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, from the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (Alqahtani), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America, and from the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Alhazzani), McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Hammoudi Halat D, Al-Jumaili AA, Ahmed KK, Rahal M, Hamad A, Darwish RM, Alsous MM, Thomas D, Bukhatwa S, Khdour M, Alkhudair N, Al Balushi AA, Khalifa S, Alsharif NZ. Academic Entitlement Among Pharmacy Students in the Arab World: A Multi-National Exploratory Study. Am J Pharm Educ 2024; 88:100640. [PMID: 38181969 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2023.100640] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study's aim was to explore academic entitlement among pharmacy students in different pharmacy colleges in the Arab World and assess associated factors. METHODS This study design was a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected using a self-administered electronic questionnaire posted across pharmacy college networks in 10 Arab countries (Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates). The electronic survey was administered through Qualtrics Survey Software, and its link was open from January 23, 2022 to May 13, 2022. The multiple linear regression measured the association between different predictors and the academic entitlement. RESULTS A total of 2386 surveys were received from students studying in 10 different Arab countries. The majority of responding students were male and studying in a Bachelor of pharmacy program. Students reported an agreeable attitude in 4 areas: rewards for efforts, customer orientation, customer service expectation, and general academic entitlement. In accommodation, a neutral attitude was reported, while they reported a disagreeing attitude in the responsibility avoidance domain. In grade haggling, the 3 items of the domain had different attitudes. Only 3 factors had a significant negative association with student entitlement (professionalism, GPA, and year in the study program). CONCLUSION The academic entitlement scores among pharmacy students in the Arab World were high and had a negative association with professionalism perceptions. This study finding is a call for pharmacy programs to consider the effect of academic entitlement on pharmacy education and to obtain in-depth evidence on its magnitude and associated factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Azeez Al-Jumaili
- University of Baghdad College of Pharmacy, Baghdad, Iraq; The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, Iowa, USA; University of California Davis School of Medicine /Department of Public Health, CA, USA.
| | - Kawther Khalid Ahmed
- University of Baghdad College of Pharmacy, Baghdad, Iraq; The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, Iowa, USA
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- Lebanese International University, School of Pharmacy, Beyrouth, Lebanon
| | - Anas Hamad
- Qatar University, College of Pharmacy, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rula M Darwish
- The University of Jordan, School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Department, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mervat M Alsous
- Yarmouk University Irbid, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Dixon Thomas
- Gulf Medical University, College of Pharmacy, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Bukhatwa
- Libyan International Medical University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Maher Khdour
- Al-Quds University College of Pharmacy, Abu Dis, Palestine
| | - Nora Alkhudair
- King Saud University College of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sherief Khalifa
- Gulf Medical University College of Pharmacy, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naser Z Alsharif
- Lebanese American University, School of Pharmacy, Byblos, Lebanon
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Ghossoub E, Itani H, Touma Sawaya R, Ghanime PM, Cherro M, Elbejjani M, Barakat M, El Asmar K. Validation of the Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy (LSRP) scale in the non-institutionalized Lebanese population. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:72. [PMID: 38267879 PMCID: PMC10809519 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05499-4] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychopathy has been described as "the first personality disorder to be recognized in psychiatry". It has three core features: affective, interpersonal, and behavioral. The Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy (LSRP) scale is used to screen for and measure psychopathy. Our study aims to validate the LSRP as a tool to measure psychopathy in the non-institutionalized Lebanese population. METHODS We surveyed Lebanese individuals residing in Lebanon and aged 18 through 65. It was a convenience sample collected via an online survey. 534 Lebanese participants completed the survey and were included in our analyses. Nearly 80% were female, 90% were college educated, and 60% were employed. We used exploratory graph analysis and confirmatory factor analyses to measure internal validity of the LSRP. We also used the HEXACO Personality Inventory-Revised (HEXACO-PI-R), the Subtypes of Antisocial Behavior Questionnaire (STAB), and the Short version of the Urgency, Premeditation (lack of), Perseverance (lack of), Sensation Seeking, Positive Urgency, Impulsive Behavior Scale (S-UPPS-P) to measure external validity of LSRP. RESULTS The exploratory graph analysis showed that the LSRP had a three-factor structure (Egocentric, Callous and Antisocial) in the Lebanese population. This three-factor structure (RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.83, SRMR = 0.06) yielded a better fit than the two-factor, and three-factor Brinkley models. The LSRP was negatively correlated with the Honesty-Humility dimension of the HEXACO-PI-R and positively correlated with the STAB and S-UPPS-P subscales. CONCLUSIONS The LSRP scale is a valid measure of psychopathy in the Lebanese non-institutionalized population, adding to the currently limited literature addressing psychopathy in the Arab World.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Ghossoub
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hala Itani
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayah Touma Sawaya
- Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Pia Maria Ghanime
- Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Michele Cherro
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Martine Elbejjani
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marc Barakat
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Khalil El Asmar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Bliss Street, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh/Beirut 1107 2020, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Zubairi NA, Butt NS, Malik AA, Gazzaz ZJ. Evaluating patient safety research performance in Arab world countries: Changing trends and reflections. Pak J Med Sci 2023; 39:1595-1600. [PMID: 37936731 PMCID: PMC10626126 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.39.6.7514] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Patient safety is a major concern in health care. Research is an important tool to minimize preventable errors. Research performance and trends evaluation need to be identified for future guidance. Our objective was to evaluate the research performance in Arab World countries related to patient safety so that real picture is available to all stake holders for future application. Methods This was a descriptive exploratory study carried at King Abdulaziz University Jeddah, using Bibliometric analyses on Web of Science extracted data, exploring the research publications related to Patient Safety from the Arab World in last two decades (2001-2020). Digital resources were used. Data collected was further explored to see the trends. Results Only 2% of total worldwide publications on Patient Safety were from Arab World. A positive trend, however, has emerged since 2015. Out of 5940 documents identified, only 383 had single authorship. Egypt and Saudi Arab were the major contributors. Other countries had less or even zero publications. Researchers are coordinating with others in Western countries to enhance the research productivity. Cairo University with 734 publications had most affiliations. Publications on safety culture and medication safety were frequent. Hospital Acquired Infections and error reporting had limited research. Conclusion Researches on patient safety in the Arab World are not sufficient. Countries other than Egypt and Saudi Arabia also need to contribute more frequently. Critical problems, like Hospital Acquired Infections, should have regular research from all countries to assist those treating patients and those making health related policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeem Alam Zubairi
- Nadeem Alam Zubairi, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadeem Shafique Butt
- Nadeem Shafique Butt, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Azam Malik
- Ahmad Azam Malik, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zohair Jamil Gazzaz
- Zohair Jamil Gazzaz, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Al Saidi I, Mohamedabugroon A, Sawalha A, Sultan I. Epidemiology of Bladder Cancer in the Arab World: 2019 Global Burden of Disease Data. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2022; 23:2907-2919. [PMID: 36172652 PMCID: PMC9810290 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2022.23.9.2907] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) has unique epidemiology. It is well known that some Arab countries have higher incidence of UBC due to certain risk factors, including schistosomiasis and smoking. METHODS We systematically reviewed the Global Burden of Disease study (GBD) database for the year 2019. We queried GBD study database using results tool for UBC in the 22 Arab countries and compared the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), death rate (ASDR), mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR) and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (ASDALYs) in Arab countries with global values. RESULTS The Arab population represents 5.6% of the global population. There was an estimated number of 27,503 patients diagnosed with UBC in 2019 in the Arab world. The ASIR for developing UBC in the Arab countries was 9.9/100,000; which is higher than the average global ASIR (6.5/100,000). Specifically, the ASIR was higher than the global average in 11 out of the 22 Arab countries. Notably, the age-specific incidence in Egypt showed that younger individuals had higher incidence of UBC than other countries, reflecting unique epidemiology. It is estimated that 10,532 patients died of UBC in the Arab world in 2019. The average mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR) was estimated to be 0.448. The burden of UBC as estimated by the number of DALYs in the Arab world was 272,976 years representing 4% of cancer burden in Arab countries and 6.2% of the global DALYs related to UBC. CONCLUSION UBC has high incidence in many Arab countries, particularly in North Africa. Risk factors are known and are modifiable, making prevention the most optimal way to reduce disease burden. High MIR in many Arab countries reflects suboptimal management and a window for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amer Sawalha
- School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. ,For Correspondence:
| | - Iyad Sultan
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan.
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Alawa J, Muhammad M, Kazemitabar M, Bromberg DJ, Garcia D, Khoshnood K, Ghandour L. Medication for opioid use disorder in the Arab World: A systematic review. Int J Drug Policy 2022; 102:103617. [PMID: 35182841 PMCID: PMC9851143 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103617] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a global public health concern. The standard of care for OUD involves treatment using medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone. No known review exists to assess the contextual factors associated with medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in the Arab World. This systematic review serves as an implementation science study to address this research gap and improve the uptake of MOUD in the Arab World. METHODS Systematic searches of Medline, PsycINFO, and EMBASE, and a citation analysis, were used to identify peer-reviewed articles with original data on MOUD in the Arab World. Quality assessment was conducted using the CASP appraisal tools, and main findings were extracted and coded according to the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework. RESULTS 652 research articles were identified, and 10 met inclusion criteria for final review. Four studies considered health-systems aspects of MOUD administration, such as cost-effectiveness, the motivations for and impact of national MOUD policies, the types of social, political, and scientific advocacy that led to the adoption of MOUD in Arab countries, and the challenges limiting its wide-scale adoption in the Arab World. Six papers considered MOUD at individual and group patient levels by evaluating patient quality of life, addiction severity, patient satisfaction, and patient perspectives on opioid agonist therapy. CONCLUSION Despite financial and geographic barriers that limit access to MOUD in the Arab World, this review found MOUD to be cost-effective and associated with positive health outcomes for OUD patients in the Arab World. MOUD can be successfully established and scaled to the national level in the Arab context, and strong coalitions of health practitioners can lobby to establish MOUD programs in Arab countries. Still, the relative novelty of MOUD in this context precludes an abundance of research to address its long-term delivery in the Arab World.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude Alawa
- Stanford University School of Medicine, 291 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
| | - Muzzammil Muhammad
- Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Maryam Kazemitabar
- Yale University School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Daniel J Bromberg
- Yale University School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Danilo Garcia
- Centre for Ethics, Law and Mental Health (CELAM), University of Gothenburg, Box 100, 405 30 Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Behavioral Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kaveh Khoshnood
- Yale University School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
| | - Lilian Ghandour
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Van Dyck Building, PO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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Garashi HY, Steinke DT, Schafheutle EI. A qualitative exploration of pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait using Matland's ambiguity-conflict model. Global Health 2021; 17:97. [PMID: 34461946 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-021-00751-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As Arab countries seek to implement the ‘Guideline on Good Pharmacovigilance Practice (GVP) for Arab countries’, understanding policy implementation mechanisms and the factors impacting it can inform best implementation practice. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms of and factors influencing pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Arab countries with more established pharmacovigilance systems (Jordan, Oman), to inform policy implementation in a country with a nascent pharmacovigilance system (Kuwait). Results Matland’s ambiguity-conflict model served to frame data analysis from 56 face-to-face interviews, which showed that policy ambiguity and conflict were low in Jordan and Oman, suggesting an “administrative implementation” pathway. In Kuwait, policy ambiguity was high while sentiments about policy conflict were varied, suggesting a mixture between “experimental implementation” and “symbolic implementation”. Factors reducing policy ambiguity in Jordan and Oman included: decision-makers’ guidance to implementors, stakeholder involvement in the policy’s development and implementation, training of policy implementors throughout the implementation process, clearly outlined policy goals and means, and presence of a strategic implementation plan with appropriate timelines as well as a monitoring mechanism. In contrast, policy ambiguity in Kuwait stemmed from the absence or lack of attention to these factors. Factors reducing policy conflict included: the policy’s compliance with internationally recognised standards and the policy’s fit with local capabilities (all three countries), decision-makers’ cooperation with and support of the national centre as well as stakeholders’ agreement on policy goals and means (Jordan and Oman) and adopting a stepwise approach to implementation (Jordan). Conclusions Using Matland’s model, both the mechanism of and factors impacting successful pharmacovigilance policy implementation were identified. This informed recommendations for best implementation practice in Arab as well as other countries with nascent pharmacovigilance systems, including increased managerial engagement and support, greater stakeholder involvement in policy development and implementation, and undertaking more detailed implementation planning.
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Khachfe HH, Sammouri J, Salhab HA, Fares MY, El-Najjar R. Maternal mortality and health in the Arab World: A 25-year epidemiological study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:2369-2376. [PMID: 31581369 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM In this work, we aim to assess the maternal health in terms of maternal mortality ratios and lifetime risk of maternal death in of women in the Arab World. METHODS Data on maternal mortality rates (MMR) and lifetime risk of maternal death (LTR) were extracted from the official databases of the United Nations Children's Fund. Annual Percentage Change was calculated using Joinpoint regression model. Statistical significance among countries was determined using one-way analysis of variance (anova) on spss version 25.0 (IBM SPSS, 2017). RESULTS The MMR and LTR significantly decreased in almost all Arab countries. Somalia was found to be the country with the highest burden of MMR, while Gulf countries had the lowest burden. CONCLUSION Our study shows a decrease in the MMR and LTR of maternal death in the Arab world. Although there is a decrease in these rates, but continuous research and efforts must be undergone to better develop the health care system in a great number of Arab countries to decrease the burden of maternal deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Sammouri
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hamza A Salhab
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Y Fares
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Roula El-Najjar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Middle East Institute of Health, Bsalim, Lebanon
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11
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Zaidi SH, Abutiheen A. Medical Education in Iraq: The cradle of Civilisation. Pak J Med Sci 2019; 35:868-872. [PMID: 31258610 PMCID: PMC6572955 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.35.3.972] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical education is in state of flux in Iraq. What used to be the best physicians and surgeons in the Arab world have fallen down to much lower status due to deliberate neglect and punishment of the intellectuals and professionals by the previous authorities. Once again medical educators and health professional are gaining momentum, gathering national and international support, to enter the contemporary world of medical education employing an integrated curriculum, PBL and Problem Solving Methods, Skill labs, simulation and structuring etc. Much needs to be done to return to formal glory but Iraqis are a dynamic nation of determined, dedicated and committed people. It is up to the international community to join hands with the Medics International to expedite the process. One such effort was the medical education conference held on 15-16 September 2018 with large input from medical educationists from Pakistan.
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Al-Shamsi HO, Tashkandi E, Bukhari N, Al Farsi A, Alnajjar A, Alhuraiji A, Foheidi M, Sagheir A, Bin Thani K, Al Bahrani B, Alrawi S. Awareness, understanding, attitude and barriers toward prescribing modern cancer immunotherapies in the Arabian Gulf countries. Gulf J Oncolog 2018; 1:45-51. [PMID: 30145551] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of modern immunotherapy has been evolving over the past few years, and various new agents have been developed for new indications at multiple primary sites in oncology. It is important for physicians who are involved in cancer care to be aware and updated about new therapeutic agents and their indications, potential benefits, and side effects. PATIENTS AND METHODS From October to November 2017, we conducted a survey on the awareness, understanding, attitude, and barriers associated with prescribing modern cancer immunotherapies among physicians in the Arabian Gulf countries. The study included practicing physicians who delivered chemotherapy; trainees were not eligible. A total of 460 physicians were contacted and invited to complete an online survey, of which approximately 74.8% did not respond, and 4 (3.4%) were excluded because they had not recently treated patients with cancer. 112 (24.3%) physicians completed the survey (completion rate = 25.2%). An online electronic survey questionnaire was developed via Planet Surveys. The survey was designed with multidisciplinary inputs of the study investigators practicing in the Arabian Gulf countries, piloted, and subsequently revised on the basis of feedback from 10 additional oncologists. The final survey included 23 questions and took 8-10 minutes for completion. RESULTS All respondents were aware of modern immunotherapies, but 62.5% reported having limited experience in implementing them, whereas 31.3% reported good experience. The overall physicians' attitudes toward modern immunotherapy were favorable, with a mean score of 7.4 (scale of 1-10, with 10 being extremely favorable). Efficacy, clear indications, and good safety profile were perceived as key potential benefits. Cost, lack of experience, and lack of access to specific testing were the major barriers. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION There was a high level of awareness and an overall positive attitude toward modern cancer immunotherapy among oncologists in the Arabian Gulf countries, but there was a limited experience in prescribing cancer immunotherapeutic agents. Efficacy, clear indications, and good safety profile were perceived as key potential benefits, whereas cost, lack of experience, and lack of access to specific testing prior to prescription were the major barriers. Patients were likely to be receptive to modern immunotherapy as a therapeutic option for cancer treatment. Long-term efficacy data, financial support programs, and educational activities for prescribers may increase the access to modern immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humaid O Al-Shamsi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Alzahra Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Emad Tashkandi
- Medical College, Umm AlQura University. King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nedal Bukhari
- Department of Medical Oncology, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Moteb Foheidi
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Sagheir
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oncology and Hematology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Khalid Bin Thani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oncology and Hematology, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Manama, Bahrain
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Arafa MA, Rabah DM. With increasing trends of prostate cancer in the Saudi Arabia and Arab World: Should we start screening programs? World J Clin Oncol 2017; 8:447-449. [PMID: 29291169 PMCID: PMC5740100 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v8.i6.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Incidence rate for prostate cancer in the Arab World is significantly lower than United States and Europe, it ranges from 5.5% to 39.2%. However, the incidence and the number of deaths is expected to increase. In Saudi Arabia, the crude incidence rate and age standardized incidence rate of prostate cancer are reported to be steadily increasing in between 2001-2008. Only two screening trials were attempted in 2001 and 2009 which yielded an incidence rate of 1.17% and 2.5% respectively. Men in the Arab world are sharing a common characteristic of poor knowledge and poor attitude towards prostate cancer examination and screening practices. They are ill-informed about the PSA test’s strengths and drawbacks because the doctors are not talking to them about the importance of counselling. Men should be encouraged to do PSA testing before the age of 50 and till the age of 70 years. This could be achieved by enhancing their attitude and enriching the knowledge of the physicians towards PSA testing, harms and benefits, through shared decision making, which would increase men’s knowledge scores, reduced their decisional conflict and promote greater involvement in decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Arafa
- Cancer Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 4536, Saudi Arabia
| | - Danny M Rabah
- Cancer Research Chair, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 4536, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 4536, Saudi Arabia
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14
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Elbarazi I, Loney T, Yousef S, Elias A. Prevalence of and factors associated with burnout among health care professionals in Arab countries: a systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:491. [PMID: 28716142 PMCID: PMC5513024 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2319-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [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: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burnout among healthcare professionals is one of the key challenges affecting health care practice and quality of care. This systematic review aims to (1) estimate the prevalence of burnout among health care professionals (HCP) in Arab countries; and (2) explore individual and work-related factors associated with burnout in this population. METHODS Multiple electronic databases were searched for studies published in English or Arabic from January 1980 to November 2014 assessing burnout (using the Maslach Burnout Inventory; MBI) amongst health care professionals (HCP) in Arab countries. RESULTS Nineteen studies (N = 4108; 49.3% females) conducted on HCP in Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Yemen were included in this review. There was a wide range of prevalence estimates for the three MBI subscales, high Emotional Exhaustion (20.0-81.0%), high Depersonalization (9.2-80.0%), and low Personal Accomplishment (13.3-85.8%). Gender, nationality, service duration, working hours, and shift patterns were all significantly associated with burnout. CONCLUSIONS Within the constraints of the study and the range of quality papers available, our review revealed moderate-to-high estimates of self-reported burnout among HCP in Arab countries that are similar to prevalence estimates in non-Arabic speaking westernized developed countries. In order to develop culturally appropriate interventions, further research using longitudinal designs is needed to confirm the risk factors for burnout in specific HCP settings and specialties in Arab countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, PO Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - T Loney
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, PO Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - S Yousef
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, PO Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - A Elias
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, PO Box 17666, United Arab Emirates.
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15
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Hamadeh RR, Borgan SM, Sibai AM. Cancer Research in the Arab World: A review of publications from seven countries between 2000-2013. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2017; 17:e147-e154. [PMID: 28690885 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.2016.17.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aimed to examine trends in cancer research in the Arab world and identify existing research gaps. A search of the MEDLINE® database (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, Maryland, USA) was undertaken for all cancer-related publications published between January 2000 and December 2013 from seven countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine and Sudan. A total of 1,773 articles were identified, with a significant increase in yearly publications over time (P <0.005). Only 30.6% of the publications included subjects over the age of 50 years old. There was a dearth of cross-sectional/correlational studies (8.8%), randomised controlled trials (2.4%) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses (1.3%). Research exploring cancer associations mainly considered social and structural determinants of health (27.1%), followed by behavioural risk factors (14.1%), particularly tobacco use. Overall, more cancer research is needed in the Arab world, particularly analytical studies with high-quality evidence and those focusing on older age groups and associations with physical activity and diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randah R Hamadeh
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, College of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Saif M Borgan
- Department of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Abla M Sibai
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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16
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Akl C, Akik C, Ghattas H, Obermeyer CM. Gender disparities in midlife hypertension: a review of the evidence on the Arab region. Womens Midlife Health 2017; 3:1. [PMID: 30766703 PMCID: PMC6299986 DOI: 10.1186/s40695-017-0020-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective While gender differences in hypertension and increased prevalence rates among women at midlife have been documented in multiple settings, the evidence on the Arab world has not been systematically examined. This review summarizes the evidence related to gender disparities in midlife hypertension in this region. Methods We searched MEDLINE and Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) databases for studies, published between January 2000 and August 2015, on hypertension in the 22 countries of the Arab region. We abstracted information on the prevalence of hypertension among women and men, in general populations during midlife. Results Nineteen studies provided data on the prevalence of hypertension by gender and age in the Arab world. Higher rates of hypertension were found among Arab women at midlife in most countries. In studies that included subjects younger than 35 years old, a decrease in sex ratios (M/F) at midlife was observed in all countries except Palestine. Higher female prevalence rates are observed in the 4th decade of life in most countries of the region, almost two decades earlier than in other parts of the world. Conclusions This review highlights the need for more systematic examinations of hypertension in the Arab region, its risk factors, and the reasons for the particular patterns of gender differences that are observed. Such research would have considerable implications for prevention, treatment, and improved well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christelle Akl
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107-2020 Lebanon
| | - Chaza Akik
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107-2020 Lebanon
| | - Hala Ghattas
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107-2020 Lebanon
| | - Carla Makhlouf Obermeyer
- Center for Research on Population and Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box: 11-0236, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107-2020 Lebanon
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Hammoudeh W, Hogan D, Giacaman R. From a Death Sentence to a Disrupted Life: Palestinian Women's Experiences and Coping With Breast Cancer. Qual Health Res 2017; 27:487-496. [PMID: 26873996 DOI: 10.1177/1049732316628833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study explores women's experiences of breast cancer in the occupied Palestinian territory. We use an inductive qualitative design with a thematic analytical approach for conducting and analyzing 35 semi-structured interviews with breast cancer patients. The interviews focused on diagnosis, experiences and coping with breast cancer, social support and care needs, and the impact of illness on their families and social relationships. Three themes emerged: (a) the transition from initial shock to the daily struggles with disruptions caused by illness, (b) the role of social support in helping women cope with the burden of disease, and the importance of (c) faith and reliance on God (tawakkul). In the Palestinian context, women's narratives highlighted the disruptive nature of breast cancer. Our findings underline the importance of social support provided by extended family members. Finally, faith is an important overarching theme that influences how women make sense of and cope with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weeam Hammoudeh
- 1 Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- 2 Birzeit University, Birzeit, Palestine
| | - Dennis Hogan
- 1 Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Al-Nuaimi N, Katende G, Arulappan J. Breastfeeding Trends and Determinants: Implications and recommendations for Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2017; 17:e155-e161. [PMID: 28690886 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.2016.17.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [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: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimal breastfeeding practices entail the early initiation of breastfeeding soon after delivery of the baby, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and the continuation of breastfeeding complemented by solid food up until two years of age. Breastfeeding has wide-ranging health benefits for both the mother and her child; however, many factors contribute to low rates of exclusive breastfeeding. This article highlights the benefits of optimal breastfeeding as well as trends and determinants associated with breastfeeding both worldwide and in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Strategies to optimise breastfeeding and overcome breastfeeding barriers in the GCC region are recommended, including community health and education programmes and 'baby-friendly' hospital initiatives. Advocates of breastfeeding are needed at the national, community and family levels. In addition, more systematic research should be conducted to examine breastfeeding practices and the best strategies to promote breastfeeding in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisreen Al-Nuaimi
- Department of Maternal & Child Health, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Godfrey Katende
- Department of Adult Health & Critical Care, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Judie Arulappan
- Department of Maternal & Child Health, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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Arafa MA, Farhat K, Aqdas S, Al-Atawi M, Rabah DM. Assessment of lower urinary tract symptoms in Saudi men using the International Prostate Symptoms Score. Urol Ann 2015; 7:221-5. [PMID: 25835352 PMCID: PMC4374262 DOI: 10.4103/0974-7796.150492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common among older men, the incidence and prevalence are increasing rapidly, and they are associated with diminished health-related quality-of-life (QOL). Objective: The aim was to describe the prevalence of LUTS in Saudi population and its relation to some other parameters. Subjects and Methods: Saudi men over the age of 40 were invited to participate in the study; in Riyadh city from August 2012 through March 2013. All participants were assessed for the serum level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examination. Participants were given a linguistically validated Arabic version of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Demographic and other medical comorbidities were assessed. Results: Based on the IPSS, a subdivision of men into three symptoms classes has been proposed, resulting in groups with mild (1265, 58.3%), moderate (505, 27.3%), and severe symptoms (81, 4.4%) and the prevalence of moderate to severe was 31.7%. There was a weak, but significant correlation between the total IPSS and age, total prostate volume, and PSA. Severity of symptoms is increasing with increased age. Multiple regression analysis reported that prostate volume and all individual items of IPSS except straining were significant predictors of QOL and patient satisfaction, where frequency and incomplete emptying had the heaviest impact on patient's QOL. Conclusion: LUTS were common among men in Saudi population over 40, the prevalence increases with age and most of them were unpleased because of their urinary symptoms, poor QOL was mainly determined by individual symptoms; mainly frequency and incomplete emptying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Arafa
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Uro-Oncology Research Chair, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Karim Farhat
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Uro-Oncology Research Chair, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad Aqdas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Uro-Oncology Research Chair, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Al-Atawi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Uro-Oncology Research Chair, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Danny M Rabah
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Uro-Oncology Research Chair, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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20
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AlBuhairan F, AlMutairi A, Al Eissa M, Naeem M, Almuneef M. Non-suicidal self-strangulation among adolescents in Saudi Arabia: Case series of the choking game. J Forensic Leg Med 2015; 30:43-5. [PMID: 25623195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2014.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 05/26/2014] [Revised: 11/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is known to be a time of exploration and initiation of risky behaviors. Much attention has been given to risk behaviors such as smoking, violence, and sexual promiscuity; other serious behaviors such as self-strangulation or the choking game, which is carried out by adolescents in response to peer pressures or to gain a transient sense of euphoria, have received little attention, with the available literature coming from the developed world. This is the first report of cases of non-suicidal self-strangulation from the Arab World. In this case series, we report 5 cases of non-suicidal self-strangulation that presented to the Emergency Department of a tertiary care hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during 2010-2012. All of the 5 cases were young male adolescents aged 10-13 years. This activity resulted in the death of 2 boys; one boy sustained hypoxic ischemic insult to the brain with clinical deficits; and the remaining 2 were fortunate to be discharged home in healthy condition. None of the cases had underlying mental health problems, and multidisciplinary involvement ruled out suicide and homicide activities. Non-suicidal self-strangulation is a fatal behavior that adolescents engage in. Increased efforts are needed to address this serious and preventable public health issue. Awareness and education of adolescents and their parents is crucial. Awareness of healthcare providers is also necessary in order to avoid misdiagnosis of such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadia AlBuhairan
- National Family Safety Program, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Alanoud AlMutairi
- National Family Safety Program, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Majid Al Eissa
- National Family Safety Program, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Emergency Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Mohammed Naeem
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Maha Almuneef
- National Family Safety Program, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center and King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Blair I, Grivna M, Sharif AA. The " Arab World" is Not a Useful Concept When Addressing Challenges to Public Health, Public Health Education, and Research in the Middle East. Front Public Health 2014; 2:30. [PMID: 24783189 PMCID: PMC3988371 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Iain Blair
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University , Al Ain , United Arab Emirates
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University , Al Ain , United Arab Emirates
| | - Amer Ahmad Sharif
- Education Division, Dubai Healthcare City , Dubai , United Arab Emirates
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Okasha T, Elkholy H. A synopsis of recent influential papers published in psychiatric journals from the Arab world (2012). Asian J Psychiatr 2013; 6:606-8. [PMID: 24309882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2013.08.074] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This review includes six recent and influential papers that have appeared in the three leading psychiatry journals from the Arab region. The first paper examined the role of personality profile in the motivation to quit smoking and concluded that there is a positive correlation between Novelty seeking (NS), Persistence (P), Cooperativeness (C) and motivation to quit smoking. The second study discussed the prevalence of abuse history in patients with schizophrenia whether physical or sexual, and its impact on their condition and function. The third paper reported that patients with substance abuse problem show more risky sexual behaviors than normal controls. The fourth study high-lighted the similarities regarding complaints about sleep and polysomnographic changes in depression patients and somatoform disorder patients. The fifth paper, investigated the prenatal and perinatal risk factors in autistic disorders. The sixth and final article concluded that poor levels of maternal fetal attachment during the course of pregnancy should be managed in order to optimize fetal and maternal health. Overall, the papers describe a wide spectrum of research initiatives in the Arab world that are likely to have implications for global mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Okasha
- Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
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