Clinic Attendance Research Articles

Sexual health clinic attendees’ views on antibiotic post-exposure prophylaxis and vaccinations for sexually transmitted infections prevention: A qualitative study

BackgroundThe rising prevalence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is cause for concern in the context of antimicrobial resistance and the potential health outcomes of untreated infections. ObjectiveThe Community Awareness and Surveillance of Transmission (CAST) study sought sexual health service users’ views on reducing the prevalence of STIs. MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with sexual health clinic attendees who had received a diagnosis of chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis in the previous six months. Participant comments relating to antibiotic post-exposure prophylaxis (APEP) and vaccination were inductively coded, then compared using comparative qualitative data analysis methods described by Miles and Huberman. FindingsTwenty-one participants with differing genders, ages, nationalities and sexual orientations, were interviewed. Participants across informant groups expressed concerns about APEP for STI prevention because of potential antimicrobial resistance and personal health impacts. Vaccination against bacterial STIs was more acceptable. Common factors mentioned in relation to both interventions included perception of individual STI risk over time, safety, effectiveness and accessibility. ConclusionsThe views of sexual health service users support efforts to find alternatives to more frequent use of antibiotics, such as vaccinations against bacterial STIs, to reduce STI incidence and support antimicrobial stewardship.

P198 Systematic review to highlight practices and programmes for transition for adolescents with Inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Background Adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) will eventually transition from the family-centric paediatric healthcare team to the adult service. This process happens at an appropriate age or level of development and depends on a number of factors such as transition readiness, disease specific factors, and local policies and practice. This transition period is challenging for patients, families and healthcare providers. The use of structured transition programmes is increasingly incorporated into standards of care, yet the optimal format is not yet fully delineated, and practices vary considerably. The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review of structured transition programmes and their components to assess impact on disease-specific and transition-related outcomes. Methods A literature review was carried out in four main databases (PubMed, CINAHL, CENTRAL, EMBASE) and relevant publications from the year range 1970-2023 reviewed. Inclusion criteria: reporting on adolescent IBD patients and investigating structured transition programmes/interventions. Exclusion criteria: not reporting outcomes relating to transition readiness/skills or disease related outcomes. Two investigators reviewed the articles, extracted data, and two assessed bias. Results There were 3432 articles identified from initial searches, and 38 included in the final review. Twenty-six studies reported the use of structured transition programmes, and 12 investigated discrete interventions. The key outcomes studies included knowledge, self-efficacy, adherence, clinic attendance and transition readiness. These outcomes consistently improved with the use of structured transition programmes. Those adolescents with IBD transitioning with no structured programme experienced a 3.5-fold increase in IBD related surgical rates, and 2-fold increase in hospital admission rates. Structured transition programmes were shown to significantly improve transition readiness assessment scores. Transitional care programmes consistently improved the following outcomes; relapse/admission rates, corticosteroid use, quality of life, and surgery. The bias assessment showed between-study heterogeneity, low quality of evidence, and high risk of bias. Conclusion Transition outcomes for adolescents with IBD were consistently improved with the use of structured transition programmes. This literature review highlights the considerable variation in delivery of transition care, and the need for optimization of strategies. There is no current standardized model for adolescent IBD patients in Australasia, and this review will guide development of regional IBD transitional care consensus statements.

P692 An IBD nurse-led educational programme on safety and efficacy of adjuvated recombinant zoster vaccine can improve vaccine uptake in IBD patients on immunosuppressive treatment

Abstract Background Herpes Zoster (HZ) represents one of the most frequent opportunistic infections in IBD patients under immunosoppressive treatment and can be prevented by vaccination. Adjuvated recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) is the first HZ vaccine approved for immunocompromised persons. IBD patients are less likely to receive appropriate vaccinations compared to the general population. IBD nurses operate as the primary point of contact for patients and this unique position provides a suitable opportunity to positively impact patient care and encourage vaccination. We aimed to improve RZV vaccination rates by a nurse-led education intervention within an on-site RZV vaccination programme. Methods IBD patients on immunosuppressive therapies were actively recruited by phone contact, mail and during outpatient clinic or infusion centre attendance. Prior immunization to VZV was collected from medical records. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either standard explanation on the importance of HZ vaccination by the IBD attending physician (group P) or additional education by an IBD nurse (group N). Patients in group N were referred to an IBD nurse for an individual 15 minutes nurse–patient interview. During the interview, disease activity and current treatment, previous immunization to VZV and history of HZ were reviewed; the importance, benefits and safety of HZ vaccination with RZV were discussed with the patient. Patients were then referred to dedicated on-site vaccination clinics where vaccine administration was provided by the IBD nurses running the infusion centre. Reasons for vaccine refusal was also recorded. Results From February to April 2022, 164 (80%) out of 205 eligible patients were enrolled (median age 48.5 years, 54.1% male; 48.7% UC, 51.3% CD); 65 patients (39.6%) were randomized to group P and 99 patients (60.4%) to group N. Six months after randomization, 112 (68.2%) had received at least 1 RZV vaccine dose whereas vaccination was completed in 110 patients (67%). Vaccination rate was significantly higher in the nurse-led education intervention group compared to standard clinical care (group N 75.7% vs group P 56.9%,p<0.05). Most common reasons for vaccine hesitancy were concerns about side effects (40.9%), fear of vaccine aggravating the disease (14.7%), considering themselves not at risk (13.3%) and objection to the administration of vaccine (10.1%). Conclusion Vaccination recommendations should be responsibility of the IBD patient care team and efforts should be made to reduce vaccine hesitancy. We showed that a simple nurse-led educational intervention on vaccine safety and efficacy was able to improve RVZ vaccination rates in IBD patients on immunosuppressive treatment.

2033 ``Polyclinics'' - a concept of multiple clinic attendance. A pilot quantitative and qualitative review

Abstract Introduction The concept of “polypharmacy” is a well-recognised phenomenon, forming a keystone of any comprehensive geriatric assessment. We considered whether a similar concept could be applied to the number of outpatient clinics that patients may attend - a concept we have coined “polyclinic”. We recognise that older populations may have a greater number of comorbidities and, as a result, have more healthcare professionals inputting into their care. Similar to the potential detrimental effects of multiple medications, we were interested to explore if a similar detrimental effect may apply to patients attending multiple clinics. We also attempted to consider environmental and financial impacts. We approached this in both a quantitative and qualitative manner. Method A cohort was selected from all admissions to a subacute Geriatrics ward at University Hospital of Wales during the month of April 2023. National records were used to review the last decade of clinic attendances. For interviews every 4th patient was contacted Results 66 patients (75% female) were identified with 3 exclusions. The average number of clinics attended was 18.4 with 0.36 new diagnoses being made per clinic and 0.69 interventions per attendance. Geriatric clinic attendance yielded both a higher average number of diagnoses and interventions (0.93 and 1.4 respectively). Patient feedback was limited to 8 patients and 7 next of kin. Feedback regarding ‘worthwhileness’ was very positive with ratings >8/10. Feelings about possible cutting back on clinics or virtual clinic attendance were mixed with concerns regarding suitability and access to technology Conclusions We identified several limitations to this pilot project but overall feedback was positive. This study does not have the scope to suggest that attending multiple clinics are detrimental but aims to raise the concept of “polyclinic” that may be overlooked, particularly in a comorbid population and considers potential patient impact and concerns.

Psychosocial Risk Exposure Limits Routine Pediatric Oral Health Care

ObjectivesTo identify social, psychological, and contextual factors that influenced attendance at routine oral health visits in a cohort of 189 preschool children who were followed over a 2-year period. MethodsGeneralized estimating equation was used to examine the association between clinic attendance and the predictors. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were reported in the multiple logistic regression models. The study was conducted in Rochester, NY between February 2016-February 2021. ResultsPrior to the COVID-19 pandemic declaration, the rate of cancelled and no-show appointments was greater for routine clinic visits (20% and 24%, respectively) than for research visits (14% and 9% respectively) for the same participants; these rates increased during the pandemic. After adjusting for socio-demographic factors, the likelihood of a cancelled or no-show appointment was associated with parental depression (OR 1.06 CI 1.03-1.09), regardless of the type or occurrence of the visit. ConclusionsFindings from this study demonstrate that attendance to oral health care in young children is reliably reduced with parental depression and that this may provide one mechanism for early emerging health inequalities of oral health.

Evaluation of Diabetes Risk Score Tool for Detecting Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Attendees of Referral Clinics at Primary Health Care Centers, Sudan

Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes in Sudan is increasing; however, suitable risk assessment and screening tools to identify at-risk individuals are lacking. Objective: To evaluate the Diabetes Risk Score (DRS) tool for detecting Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among undiagnosed individuals. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 214 individuals were recruited from Primary Health Care Referral Centers in Khartoum State. Attendees were interviewed to fill out the Diabetes Risk Score (DRS) questionnaire. Random blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were tested. Descriptive statistics and sensitivity analysis were performed to test the applicability of the DRS in Sudan. Results: The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was found to be 14%. Regarding blood tests, Random blood glucose (RBG) was normal in 93% of the participants (cutoff ≤140 mg/dl). The HbA1c result was normal in 86% of the participants (cutoff < 6.4%). The DRS was high in 40.2% (cutoff ≥33), while 59.8% were considered moderate to low risk. The DRS had a sensitivity of 83.33% and a specificity of 66.85%. The positive and negative predictive values were 29.07% and 96.09%, respectively. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) for detecting undiagnosed diabetes was 0.751 (95% CI: 0.662-0.840). Conclusion: The DRS tool was found to be applicable with reference to the HbA1c test for predicting undiagnosed diabetic patients.

Knowledge and Perception towards Uterine Fibroids among Ante-Natal Clinic Attendees in Two Sub-Urban Communities in Delta State, Nigeria

Uterine fibroid is a common cause of recurrent bleeding and pain in women of reproductive age and it can have a severe impact on a woman's quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and perception of women in suburban communities toward uterine fibroid. It was a cross-sectional descriptive study, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire to assess the knowledge and perception of ante-natal clinic attendees towards uterine fibroid in Delta State. A total of four hundred ante-natal clinic attendees were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 23 with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results obtained indicate that the mean age of respondents was 31.0 (± 8.5) years. Overall, 16% of respondents had good knowledge of uterine fibroid. About, 73% of study participants had a positive perception of uterine fibroid. There was no statistically significant association (p>0.05) between the socio- demographic variables with knowledge and perception towards uterine fibroid among our study respondents. Majority of respondents, 99.0% were aware of uterine fibroid, however, overall knowledge of uterine fibroid was poor. Study respondents had a positive perception towards uterine fibroid. Although study respondents had a positive perception towards uterine fibroid, there were many misconceptions concerning uterine fibroid among these respondents. There is a need for health professionals to disseminate accurate information about fibroids. Also educational programs should be carried out in sub-urban areas in order to increase their knowledge and perception of uterine fibroid. These programs can be sponsored by the community non-governmental organizations and the Government.

Evaluation of Diabetes Risk Score Tool for Detecting Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Attendees of Referral Clinics at Primary Health Care Centers, Sudan

Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes in Sudan is increasing; however, suitable risk assessment and screening tools to identify at-risk individuals are lacking. Objective: To evaluate the Diabetes Risk Score (DRS) tool for detecting Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among undiagnosed individuals. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 214 individuals were recruited from Primary Health Care Referral Centers in Khartoum State. Attendees were interviewed to fill out the Diabetes Risk Score (DRS) questionnaire. Random blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were tested. Descriptive statistics and sensitivity analysis were performed to test the applicability of the DRS in Sudan. Results: The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was found to be 14%. Regarding blood tests, Random blood glucose (RBG) was normal in 93% of the participants (cutoff ≤140 mg/dl). The HbA1c result was normal in 86% of the participants (cutoff < 6.4%). The DRS was high in 40.2% (cutoff ≥33), while 59.8% were considered moderate to low risk. The DRS had a sensitivity of 83.33% and a specificity of 66.85%. The positive and negative predictive values were 29.07% and 96.09%, respectively. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) for detecting undiagnosed diabetes was 0.95 with a confidence level (CI 0.92 to 0.98). Conclusion: The DRS tool was found to be applicable with reference to the HbA1c test for predicting undiagnosed diabetic patients.

Distribution of ABO and Rhesus ‘D’ Blood Groups among Pregnant Women in a Tertiary Hospital in Rivers State, Southern Nigeria

Background: In recent times, the role of ABO and Rhesus grouping in clinical practice has increased widely. There is a paucity of literature on blood group distribution, and its distribution has not been studied in our centre. This study aimed to determine the distribution of ABO, Rh D blood groups and haemoglobin genotype among pregnant women initiating antenatal care in Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among antenatal clinic attendees in RSUTH, over 6 months. At booking 3ml of venous blood was collected in Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) vacutainer from the pregnant women, and ABO and Rh D typing was done by tile methods forward and reverse grouping methods and confirmed by microscopy. Haemoglobin genotype was done by electrophoresis. Data collected were analyzed using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS), version 25.0 (Armonk, New York). Results: One thousand one hundred and forty -seven patients were recruited for the study. Their mean age and mean gestational age at booking were 31.6 SD 4.6 years (95% CI: 31.3,31.8), and 21.1 SD 18.6 weeks respectively. Modal parity was para 1. The predominant blood group among pregnant women at the RSUTH was O [667 (58.2%)], followed by A [286 (24.9%)], B [171(14.9%)], and AB [23(2%)]. The prevalences of Rhesus D positive and Rhesus D negative blood group were 95.2% and 4.8% respectively. Concerning genotype, the most predominant was AA 898 (78%) followed by AS [245 (21.4)], SS [4 (0.4%)], and AC [2 (0.2%]. Conclusion: The predominant blood group and genotype among pregnant women in our centre is O Rh D positive and AA respectively. The findings from this study would help plan transfusion services antepartum and post-partum. This will be relevant in transfusion and coagulation management of obstetric haemorrhage.

Knowledge, Attitude and P erception Towards Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in University College Hospital, Ibadan

Introduction The International Diabetes Federation has identified the emergence of gestational diabetes mellitus (DM) (GDM) as an underappreciated threat to maternal and child health. Adequate knowledge, a positive attitude towards prevention, and a positive perception of its danger could motivate pregnant women to take preventive measures. However, there is a dearth of literature on these among women attending antenatal clinics at UCH. This study, therefore aimed to assess pregnant women’s knowledge about GDM, report their attitudes and determine their perception towards GDM. Methods A cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, attitude and perception towards GDM. A total of 300 pregnant women registered with and attending the antenatal clinic in University College Hospital (UCH), were selected using a random sampling technique. A self-structured questionnaire using a GDM Knowledge Questionnaire and previous research questions on Perception and Attitude was used to collect data from participants. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences 20.0 and hypotheses were tested using chi-square at 0.05 level of significance. Results The mean age of the pregnant women was 30.60 ± 5.88 years. A little over one-fifth of the participants were knowledgeable about GDM. Three-quarters of the participants demonstrated a positive attitude while just a little over half had a positive perception of GDM. A significant association exists between participants’ knowledge about GDM and belief about screening for diabetes during pregnancy ( p = .006). There was a significant association between participants’ attitude and their perception of GDM ( p = .000). A direct significant association was also found between participants’ knowledge and their perceived risk of developing GDM ( p = .000). Discussion While most of the pregnant women had poor knowledge about GDM, more than half of the pregnant women had positive attitudes towards GDM. A little over average possesses a positive perception towards GDM. Healthcare providers should intensify efforts in formulating appropriate methods to increase awareness with emphasis on the risks associated with GDM.

Unintended Pregnancy Determinants among Antenatal Clinic Attendees: A University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Experience

Unintended Pregnancy Determinants among Antenatal Clinic Attendees: A University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Experience

Prevalence of unexpected red blood cell antibodies in pregnant women and follow-up of pregnancy outcome in pregnant women treated with intra-uterine transfusion.

For the management of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), it is important to detect unexpected red cell antibody in pregnant women. We assessed the prevalence of unexpected red cell antibodies in consecutive pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (ANC). More importantly, cases with unexpected antibody causing severe anemia were followed-up for intervention (Intra-uterine transfusion {IUT}) and outcome of pregnancy (still-birth/live-healthy). The study was conducted with an objective to find the prevalence of unexpected RBC antibodies in pregnant women, their specificity and to do the follow-up for IUT and outcome of pregnancy (still-birth, live-birth) in antibody positive women. This was a prospective study from January 2021 to May 2022 at two tertiary care centres. All antenatal samples received by the laboratory were screened for unexpected red cell antibody. Whenever antibody screen was positive, antibody identification was performed. Patients, positive for unexpected antibody and anemia were followed up for any transfusion-based intervention and outcome of pregnancy. A total of 539 consecutive samples were worked up and among these, 10 samples (1.85%) were found to be antibody positive. The antibodies identified were Anti-D (n=6), anti-Leb (n=1), anti-M (n=1), anti-C (n=1) and anti-E (n=1).The prevalence of unexpected antibodies in Rh positive and Rh negative pregnant women was 0.83% and 10.9% respectively. Follow-up was done for all 10 cases with unexpected antibody and anemia was monitored by MCA PSV (middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity).Two women developed severe anemia thus requiring single intrauterine transfusion (at 26 weeks and 28 weeks respectively) each, for correction of anemia. In both these cases, healthy male child was delivered. At 3-month follow-up both children were alive and healthy. The study found prevalence of unexpected RBC antibodies in pregnant women as 1.85%. The study also underlined importance of transfusion-based interventions contributing to successful outcome in couple of cases with severe anemia.

Impact of early COVID-19 pandemic events in Singapore on clinic attendance and default rates in a hospital-based ambulatory paediatrics service

Impact of early COVID-19 pandemic events in Singapore on clinic attendance and default rates in a hospital-based ambulatory paediatrics service

Profile of sexually transmitted infections among attendees of special clinics (Suraksha) at an apex regional sexually transmitted disease centre in North India – a five-year study

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) present significant global and national health challenges, particularly in India. Objective: To estimate the prevalence and characteristics of STIs among attendees at the Suraksha Clinic in the Apex Regional STD Centre, Safdarjung Hospital. Methods:Retrospective data from January 2018 to December 2022 were statistically analyzed using Excel and SPSS. The study included the examination for diagnosis of various STIs, such as syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), gonorrhoea, chlamydiasis, trichomoniasis, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, chancroid, and genital herpes. Gender distribution and syndromic diagnoses, including vaginal/cervical discharge and genital ulcers, were also considered. Referrals to Integrated Counseling and Testing Centres for HIV testing were analyzed. Results: The outcomes reveal a substantial burden of STIs, with 3.06% showing reactivity to syphilis, 1.74% testing positive for HIV, 3.36% for gonorrhoea, 11.78% for chlamydiasis, 1.05% for trichomoniasis, 26.24% for candidiasis, 9.97% for bacterial vaginosis, 7.80% for chancroid, 11.64% for herpes genitalis, and 4.01% for other non-STIs. Attendees’ interactions included 34.36% of referrals to Integrated Counseling and Testing Centres for HIV testing. The gender distribution showed 58.92% male and 40.94% female attendees. Conclusion: Syndromic diagnoses, including vaginal/cervical discharge (21.22%) and genital warts (8.00%), highlight prevalent conditions, necessitating routine screening, early detection, and targeted interventions for effective disease control and prevention. These findings underscore the significance of integrated screening, patient education, and proactive strategies to safeguard public health in the face of rising STI rates.

A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Anemia among Women Attending Antenatal Clinic

A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Anemia among Women Attending Antenatal Clinic

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Anaemia among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Mbaitoli L.G.A Imo State

Anemia during pregnancy continues to be a major health concern in Imo State and Nigeria. Globally, 41.8% - 60.0% of pregnant women experience anemia, and Nigeria has a prevalence rate of 55.1%. This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to May 2023 and involved 250 pregnant women who attended antenatal care at Nwaorieubi Comprehensive Health Center in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State. The objective of this study was to gain insights into factors related to anemia, as well as prevention and control measures within the context of antenatal care. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire and by examining hemoglobin measurements from health records. Descriptive analysis was performed to determine means, frequencies, and proportions, while regression analysis (p<0.05) with odds ratios and a 95% confidence interval was used to explore associations. The prevalence of anemia during pregnancy was found to be 61%. The analysis revealed various factors contributing to anemia, including inadequate intake of vitamins, financial constraints, limited availability of antenatal care, lack of utilization of prenatal care services, gaps in awareness, cultural and social barriers, genetic conditions, and the occurrence of multiple pregnancies. Regression analysis highlighted significant correlations (p < 0.05) between inadequate intake of vitamins, underutilization of prenatal care, cultural and social barriers, genetic conditions, and multiple pregnancies. In terms of participant demographics, the descriptive analysis categorized participants into the following age groups: 15-22 (39 participants), 23-30 (90 participants), 31-39 (103 participants, 41%), and 40-49 (18 participants, 7%). It is worth noting that all participants in this study were married and identified as Christian. In order to raise awareness about the risk of developing anemia in late pregnancy, it is recommended that reproductive advice and education be provided to all women of reproductive age. Interventions such as mass media campaigns, outreach education, and life skills programs should be implemented to educate women on the importance of actively participating in antenatal care, adhering to prescribed medications, consuming a diverse range of nutritious meals, and incorporating iron-rich foods into their diets during pregnancy.

Factors Associated with Knowledge about Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an increasing public health problem worldwide. Measuring the level of knowledge in a population at high risk for GDM will highlight the gaps and help in designing appropriate interventions. The objective of this study was to measure the knowledge about GDM and to identify the factors associated with it among pregnant women in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with pregnant women seeking antenatal care services in two of the public sector tertiary care hospitals in Riyadh city. The study was performed using a self-administrated predesigned questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS program. Results: More than 40% of the participants had poor knowledge about GDM complications, diagnosis and management. Women with lack of exercise [adjusted odds ratio 3.3 (95% CI 1.8, 6.1)]; having past histroy of GDM [3.2 (1.8, 5.7); primigravida [2.9 (1.6, 5.1)]; information on GDM received from doctors [2.0 (1.2, 3.4)] and those with low education level [1.8 (1.1, 2.9)] were more likely to have poor knowledge about GDM. Whereas, women with positive family history were 60 times more likely to have good knowledge about GDM. Conclusion: Primigravida mothers and those with low education level should receive specific information and awareness regarding GDM. Healthy lifestyle is important for the prevention and improvement in the diagnosis and management of GDM among pregnant women in Riyadh.

Depression and anxiety among patients attending primary Healthcare in NGHA, Riyadh

Background: Anxiety is a prevalent mental health disorder, affecting approximately 33% of the population, while depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety and depression among patients attending primary health clinics. Methods: A cohort cross-sectional study was conducted on patients at Primary Health Care and Family Medicine clinics in National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Non-probability consecutive sampling was used. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results: Regarding mental health, 48.1% of patients showed no signs of depression, while the remaining 51.9% displayed varying degrees of depression. Mild depression was the most prevalent (32.4%). For anxiety, 40.7% showed signs of anxiety. Females had a higher depression rate (61.9%) compared to males (44.5%), and age played a role, with the highest depression rate observed among patients aged 21-40 years (70.9%). Marital status also influenced depression, with widowed individuals showing a 100.0% depression rate, followed by divorced (56.3%), single (73.9%), and married (39.2%) individuals. Similarly, gender significantly affected anxiety, with females (46.6%) experiencing higher rates than males (36.3%). Patients aged 21-40 years had the highest anxiety rate (56.1%). Conclusion: This study sheds light on the health factors and their impact on depression and anxiety among primary health clinic attendees. It highlights the importance of considering these factors while assessing mental health issues in a clinical setting. Further understanding of these associations can aid healthcare providers in identifying vulnerable populations and tailoring appropriate interventions to address mental health concerns effectively.

User experiences of an AI application for predicting risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Awareness of one's individual risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a necessary precursor to engagement with prevention strategies and sexual health care. Web-based sexual health applications may improve engagement in sexual health prevention and care by providing individualised and evidence-based sexual health information. The STARTOnline (Supporting Timely and Appropriate Review and Treatment Online) study sought the views of sexual health service users on three web-based sexual health applications to better understand their usefulness, acceptability and accessibility. This paper reports the views and experiences of users of one of the applications called MySTIRisk. MySTIRisk estimates the risk of three common STIs and HIV using data from attendees of a metropolitan sexual health service. This study used a bespoke qualitative design, informed by a developmental evaluation approach. Melbourne Sexual Health Centre clinic attendees' views were sought using semi-structured interviews conducted between October 2023 and January 2024 via videoconferencing, telephone and on site at the clinic. Data was analysed using qualitative data analysis methods. A diverse group of 14 participants described an ideal pathway to better sexual health outcomes that might be facilitated by use of the MySTIRisk application, particularly for individuals with limited sexual health knowledge, or affected by stigma and geographical barriers. This pathway was described as: 1) being concerned about my sexual health; 2) checking my STI risk easily and privately; 3) understanding and trusting the result; and 4) deciding how to look after my health. Factors that might influence this pathway were also described, including areas for improvement in accessibility and acceptability. These findings support the role of web-based sexual health applications in facilitating access to sexual health education and behavioural change and underscore the importance of codesign approaches in improving their uptake and impact.

Estimates of the incidence, prevalence, and factors associated with common sexually transmitted infections among Lebanese women.

We analyzed the prevalence of active infection with common curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including N. gonorrhea, C. trachomatis, T. vaginalis, and T. pallidum, as well as active infection with HPV, herpes simplex virus types I (HSV-1) and II (HSV-2), M. hominis, M. genitalium, C. albicans, and Ureaplasma in 351 Lebanese women. A cross-sectional study, involving 351 sexually active women, 40 years or younger, who were recruited from outpatient Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic attendees between September 2016 and November 2017. The prevalence of active infection was low at 0.3% for N. gonorrhea, 0.6% for HSV-2, 2.8% for C. trachomatis, and 2.9% for any curable STIs. Prevalence of active HPV infection was high assessed at 15.7% for high-risk and 12.2% for low-risk genotypes. Furthermore, the prevalence was 2.0% for M. genitalium, 6.8% for ureaplasma, 13.7% for Candida albicans, and 20.5% for M. hominis. No active infections with T. vaginalis, T. pallidum, or HSV-1 were observed. Significant age differences were noted in the prevalence of high-risk and low-risk HPV genotypes, but no such differences were noted in the prevalence of other infections. No appreciable variations were identified in the prevalence of key STIs based on smoking, marital status, or the number of sexual partners. The study documented active infection with substantial prevalence for multiple STIs among women attending outpatient gynecology and obstetrics clinics in Lebanon. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening STI surveillance, linkage to care, and prevention interventions in reducing STI incidence among women.