Primary Care Centers In Riyadh Research Articles

Evaluating Physician Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Screening and Supplementation for Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Type 2 Diabetes Patients Treated with Metformin.

Long-term metformin use in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients is associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency. This study aims to evaluate physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Vitamin B12 screening and supplementation in this context. A survey was administered to physicians across various specialties in government hospitals and primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from January 2019 to January 2020. The survey assessed their knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning Vitamin B12 deficiency screening and supplementation. Of the 402 participating physicians, 94.0% (378 respondents) demonstrated sufficient knowledge about Vitamin B12 deficiency. However, 26.1% believed that Vitamin B12 supplementation does not necessitate screening. 55.7% did not prescribe Vitamin B12 prophylactically, 41.5% omitted neurological examinations in patients presenting with neuropathy, and 22.4% were unaware of the recommended Vitamin B12 supplement dose. Only 49.8% routinely screened for Vitamin B12 deficiency in symptomatic patients. Physicians with more extended years of experience showed significantly better knowledge about Vitamin B12 screening and supplementation (p<0.001). While most physicians were knowledgeable about Vitamin B12 deficiency and supplementation, a substantial gap in translating this knowledge into practice was observed. There is a critical need for institutional oversight to ensure adherence to American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines for Vitamin B12 screening and supplementation in T2DM patients on long-term metformin therapy.

Assessing and Comparing Musculoskeletal Knowledge and Red Flag Identification Skills: A Cross-Sectional Study of Physical Therapists and Primary Care Physicians

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common health issues often managed at the level of primary health care. Enabling physical therapists to be first-contact practitioner for patients with musculoskeletal disorders could improve patient access, expedite management, enhance outcomes and reduce costs. However, this role requires a high level of musculoskeletal knowledge and the ability to detect red flags. Objectives: To assess and compare the musculoskeletal knowledge and abilities to identify red flags between physical therapists and primary care physicians (PCPs). Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken using an electronic survey assessed participants’ musculoskeletal knowledge and ability to identify red flags. Study participants included physical therapist and PCPs practicing at Ministry of Health hospitals and/or primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Results: A total of 60 physical therapists and 76 PCPs participated. Good knowledge levels (total score ≥ 75%) were found for 7% of physical therapists compared to 18% of PCPs, and moderate knowledge levels (total score 60-75%) were found in 70% of physical therapists compared to 62% of PCP participants (P=.003). Conclusion: Physical therapists and PCPs demonstrated an overall moderate level of musculoskeletal knowledge and the ability to identify red flags. The results suggest that with further education on red flags identification, physical therapists in Saudi Arabia could potentially act as first-contact practitioners for patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

Factors Associated with Mental Illness in a Primary Healthcare Setting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Case-Control Study.

Mental health conditions are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a 13% rise within the last decade. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with mental illness in patients presenting to a primary healthcare center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Data were extracted from the electronic health records of 46 primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from March 2022 to March 2023. A total of 2418 age-matched mental health cases and controls were evaluated. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the distribution and association of relevant risk factors. A total of 1209 cases were age-matched to 1209 controls presenting to a primary clinic. The odds of mental illness in females were 2.2 times that of males. Clinical conditions associated with mental illness were stroke, diabetes, and obesity. Neurodegenerative disorders were also associated with mental illness. Primary clinics in the KSA can serve as focal points in removing the barriers to mental healthcare. There is an urgent need to spread awareness, remove the stigma, and provide appropriate care and referrals for mental health conditions in the KSA.

Chronic Disease Patterns and Their Relation With Age, Gender, and Number of Visits in Three Primary Care Centers of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Background and objective Chronic diseaseis a major health burden and is a leading cause of both morbidity and mortality. However, there is little information regarding this topic in the region of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The objective of this study is to assess the pattern of chronic diseases and the role of age, gender, and number of visits in three primary care centers in this region. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted with patients treated at large three primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study included all patients who attended one of the three centers within the past four years with one or more chronic diseases, and both genders were included. Results There were 700 patients included, of which 437 (62.4%) were female, 263 (37.6%) were male, 327 (31.8%) were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and 212 (20.6%) were diagnosed with primary hypertension. There was a significant association between the number of visits and number of diseases and betweenage and the number of visits. The mean age of patients was 50.7 ± 16.3 years. There was no significant association betweengender andthe number of diagnoses ornumber of visits. Conclusion This study found a significant relationship betweenage and the number of visits and number of diseases. T2DM was the most common disease in the population. There was no significant association betweengender and the number of diseases or number of visits.

Endotoxemia, vitamin D and premature biological ageing in Arab adults with different metabolic states

There are limited studies on the association of endotoxin, a potent mediator of gut-derived inflammation and telomere length (TL). We investigated (1) the influence of adiposity on endotoxin and TL amongst Saudi adults according to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) status and (2) the influence vitamin D may have on TL attrition. Anthropometric data and fasting blood samples were taken from 775 Saudi adults visiting different primary care centers in Riyadh [387 T2DM and 388 non-T2DM]. TL, derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, was analyzed by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and circulating endotoxin levels by Limulus Amebocyte Lysate assay. Subjects were stratified based on obesity and T2DM status. A significant lower TL was observed in the non-obese T2DM group as compared with their non-obese, non-T2DM counterparts (p = 0.002). Significant inverse associations between TL, endotoxin and endotoxin activity were observed in the cohort with obesity. Regression analysis showed that endotoxin was a significant predictor for TL in all subjects and even after stratification according to subgroups; with variances perceived in circulating TL stronger among non-T2DM obese (10%; p = 0.003) than non-T2DM non-obese (12%; p = 0.007). Also, in the non-T2DM group, TL and HDL-cholesterol predicted 29% of the variances perceived in 25(OH)D (p < 0.001). Taken together these findings show that circulating endotoxin and 25(OH)D are associated with premature biological ageing influenced by adiposity and metabolic state; suggesting future intervention studies to manipulate gut microbiome and or vitamin D levels may offer ways to mitigate premature TL attrition.

Long-term Immunity Against Hepatitis B Virus After Routine Immunization Among Adults Visiting Primary Care Centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the persistence of induced immunity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) among adults routinely vaccinated during their infancy and correlate the level of induced immunity with participant characteristics.MethodologyThis was a cross-sectional study conducted among visitors to primary care centers of the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) during the period from August 2020 to January 2021. The study population included healthy adults of both genders who had received full doses of the HBV vaccine in infancy. Data related to participant characteristics were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A blood sample was then taken from each participant to measure the serum level of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies against HBsAg (anti-HBs), and antibodies against hepatitis B core antigen (ani-HBc).ResultsA total of 400 subjects participated in the study; the mean age of the cohort was 25 years. Almost all of them were Saudis (99.30%), and more than half (57.50%) were males. Only 24.30% had an anti-HBs antibodies level of ≥10 IU/L, and all respondents were negative for HBs antigen. No significant association between participant characteristics and anti-HBs antibody levels was found.ConclusionA decline in immunity many years after HBV vaccinations taken in infancy has been well-documented. However, for low-risk populations, the boosting of HBV vaccines is probably unnecessary since the immune memory provides sufficient protection despite low or undetectable anti-HBs antibodies.

Knowledge and attitude toward travel medicine among primary care physicians in cluster 2 primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background: Travel medicine deals with the prevention and management of health problems of travelers all around the world. Primary care physicians are the first point of contact in a healthcare system, and they are often consulted to provide medical pre-travel advice. In this study, we assessed the knowledge and attitude towards travel medicine among primary health care physicians working in Cluster 2, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey study conducted among primary care physicians working in Cluster 2, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during the year 2021. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire that has been developed and validated by the study authors and consisted of questions that assessed the knowledge and attitude towards travel medicine in addition to the participants' socio-demographic characteristics.Results: A total of 240 primary care physicians participated, 52.92% of them were males, and 74.58% were Saudi. Only 51.67% of them said that they are updated about travel medicine, and websites were the main source of information at 82.50%. The mean (±SD) of the overall knowledge score was 16.18(±3.58) indicating a suboptimal knowledge level. the knowledge level differed significantly according to only physicians' updates about travel medicine, and the source of information, being higher among those who are updated at 17.19 (±3.01) vs. 15.09 (±3.83), and those who get their information from websites like CDC at 16.45(±3.54). The mean overall attitude score was 38.75(±3.95), reflecting a high positive attitude. Saudi physicians showed a significantly higher positive attitude at 39.07(±3.78) compared to the non-Saudi ones at 37.82(±4.32), with a P-value of 0.03. Similarly, the score differed significantly by the physicians' position being the highest among consultants at 40.52(±2.54).Conclusion: The current study revealed a suboptimal knowledge level and a positive attitude towards travel medicine among primary care physicians working in cluster 2 in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding child maltreatment among health care providers working in primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Objective:The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and current practice of primary healthcare physicians and nurses employed at the National Guard affiliated Primary Care Centers related to child abuse and neglect.Method:A cross-sectional study was conducted at four National Guard affiliated Primary Care Centers, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from May to September 2019. A total of 308 physicians and nurses participated in the study, using a convenience sampling technique. After obtaining informed consent, data was collected with a self-administered questionnaire.Results:The overall attitude score was excellent in 64.2% of the sample. The majority (90.3%) had an excellent knowledge score. The study indicated that the married group and participants with more than 10 years of experience were more aware of child maltreatment reporting procedures compared to the non-married group and less experienced participants. Almost two-thirds of the sample (67.2%) agreed that child abuse and neglect are underreported in Saudi Arabia. Lack of knowledge was the most frequent reason for underreporting.Conclusion:Our study highlighted that most of the primary care physicians and nurses at King Abdulaziz Medical City had excellent knowledge and positive attitudes related to child maltreatment. However, a major knowledge deficit exists in terms of the reporting procedures of suspected child maltreatment cases.

Reversal of Prediabetes in Saudi Adults: Results from an 18 Month Lifestyle Intervention.

Aim: This 18 month intervention study aims to determine the efficacy of a lifestyle modification program on prediabetes reversal among Saudi adults. Methods: An 18 month randomized, multicenter trial was conducted among Saudis with prediabetes aged 25–60 recruited from King Salman Hospital and primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 180 consenting individuals were randomized (1:1) to receive either intensive lifestyle intervention (ILIG) or guidance (control group, CG). ILIG was provided with a personalized lifestyle counseling by nutritionists every 3 months to improve diet and exercise behaviors. CG was given booklets containing information on prediabetes and its prevention. Data from lifestyle assessments and laboratory measurements were analyzed at baseline and every 6 months. The primary outcome was the reversal rate of prediabetes. Results: 158 participants were analyzed (CG:85, ILIG:73) at the 12 month follow-up and 28 participants (CG:11 and ILIG:17) completed the entire 18 month study. Post-intervention, the cumulative incidence of prediabetes reversal in the ILIG was 38 participants (52.1%) which was significantly higher than CG with 26 participants (30.6%) (p = 0.02). Conclusion: A tailored lifestyle intervention is effective in reversing prediabetes, at least for a year, among Arab adults with prediabetes. The challenge of sustaining interest in adopting lifestyle changes for a longer duration should be addressed in this population.

Assessing knowledge of scabies among physicians working in primary health care setting.

Background:Outbreaks of scabies have been documented in 2018 among school children in Western and Central regions of Saudi Arabia. There have been concerns about the awareness of healthcare providers.Objective:The objective of the current study was to evaluate the knowledge of primary health care physicians about scabies diagnosis and management, as well as the factors influencing such knowledge.Methods:An observational cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2019. The target population was physicians working in primary care centers in Riyadh. Filling either hard or soft copies of the study questionnaire was used for data collection. The knowledge score was calculated from the answers for 16 knowledge questions.Results:A total of 216 physicians were included in the final analysis, mainly general practitioners (56.5%) and registrars (31.5%). The overall knowledge score was 67.5%± 13.9%. The highest level of knowledge was associated with age susceptibility (80.6%), followed by clinical presentation and diagnosis (78.1%), mode of transmission (75.8%), pathogen cause & incubation period (66.9%), and finally management (61.7%). In multivariate logistic regression models, a shorter time since last time information about scabies was reviewed was significantly associated with better knowledge (defined as score > median), with odds ratio = 5.84 (95% confidence interval = 2.43–14.01). Similarly, older age and higher qualification were significantly associated with better knowledge.Discussion:As expected, the knowledge about scabies among primary care physicians was generally inadequate. The current findings highlight the need for educational and training programs lead by health care authorities, targeting these physicians.

Zinc status (intake and level) of healthy elderly individuals in Riyadh and its relationship to physical health and cognitive impairment

Summary Objective The aim of the current study was to assess the zinc status (intake and level) and its relationship to cognitive impairment among men and women aged 65 years and above in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional single-center study was conducted in 400 participants (200 men and 200 women) aged 65 years and above. They were randomly chosen in the primary care centers in Riyadh. The impaired cognitive functions were measured using the Abbreviated Mental Test Score (AMTS). Plasma zinc concentration was analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results The mean plasma zinc concentration was 70 ± 2.34 μg/dL, 36% of studied participants had zinc deficiency. Zinc deficiency was significant more frequent in women than men (45% versus 27%, respectively) (p Conclusion Our study indicates that zinc status may be associated with cognitive impairment measured by AMTS in the Saudi elderly population.

Bone metabolism markers are associated with neck circumference in adult Arab women.

Body fat distribution is associated with decreased bone resorption and neck circumference (NC), a surrogate measure for upper body fat, has never been tested as a marker that can reflect bone turnover. This is the first study aimed to analyze the associations between NC and several bone biomarkers among adult Saudi women. This cross-sectional study included a total of 265 middle-aged Saudi women [86 non-obese (mean age 52.7 ± 8.1; mean BMI 26.9 ± 2.3) and 179 obese (mean age 50.6 ± 7.5; mean BMI 35.7 ± 4.5)] recruited from primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Anthropometrics included BMI, NC, waist and hip circumferences, total body fat percentage (%), and blood pressure. Biochemical parameters included glucose and lipid profile which were measured routinely. Serum levels of 25(OH) D, parathyroid hormone, RANKl, sclerostin, C-terminal telopeptide of collagen I (CTX-I), Dkk1, IL1β, osteoprotegerin, osteopontin, and osteocalcin were measured using commercially available assays. In all groups, NC was inversely associated with PTH (R = - 0.22; p < 0.05) and positively associated with osteoprotegerin (R = 0.20; p < 0.05) even after adjustments for age and BMI. Using all anthropometric indices as independent variables showed that only NC explained the variance perceived in CTX-I (p= 0.049). In the non-obese, waist-hip ratio (WHR) was significantly associated with sclerostin (R = 0.40; p < 0.05) and body fat was significantly associated with osteopontin (R = 0.42; p < 0.05). NC is modestly but significantly associated with bone biomarkers, particularly the bone resorption markers, among adult Arab women. The present findings highlight the importance of NC as measure of upper body subcutaneous fat in influencing bone biomarker expression in adult females.

Correlations of neck circumference with body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors in Arab women.

Neck circumference (NC) is a relatively unused index of upper body adiposity. The present study aims to analyze the associations of NC with anthropometric measures of obesity, as well as cardiovascular and metabolic risks in Arab women. This cross-sectional study included 623 women (aged 18-70years) recruited from different primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. NC, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and metabolic and serological markers were measured in all participants. Covariance and regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between NC and cardiometabolic risk factors. The correlation coefficients of NC and WC with the clinical indices were highly significant (p < 0.01). Overall, the NC was positively correlated with all cardiometabolic markers except total cholesterol and LDLc (p < 0.001). Interestingly, NC was associated with cardiometabolic risk factors independent of other anthropometric indices. NC is significantly and independently associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in Arab women. V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Prevalence, knowledge and attitudes toward herbal medication use by Saudi women in the central region during pregnancy, during labor and after delivery

BackgroundHerbal medication usage is prevalent in both developing and developed countries. The low level of awareness of the possible dangers of some herbs during pregnancy increases the risk of unwarranted sequelae. This manuscript describes the first study of herbal medication use among pregnant women in Saudi Arabia. It aims to determine the prevalence of herbal medication use during pregnancy, during labor and after delivery in the central region of Saudi Arabia.MethodsA cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted over a 5-month period from May 15 to October 15, 2016. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed at 4 main hospitals and 3 primary care centers in Riyadh and Al Kharj. Data from 612 participants were collected and analyzed. Descriptive statistics in the form of frequency and percentage were determined, and Chi-squared tests were performed.ResultsOf the 612 participants, 25.3%, 33.7% and 48.9% used herbs during pregnancy, during labor, and after delivery, respectively. The primary motives for using herbal medication during pregnancy, during labor and after delivery were to boost general health, ease and accelerate labor and clean the womb, respectively. There was a significant association between use during pregnancy and prior use (P = 0.001). Most pregnant women used herbs based on advice from family and friends (52.9%). Only 40.7% of pregnant women disclosed their herbal use to their doctors.ConclusionThe prevalence of herbal medication use among pregnant Saudi women in Riyadh and Al Kharj is relatively high. Doctors should be aware of evidence regarding the potential benefits or harm of herbal medication use during pregnancy.

Diabetic retinopathy: Knowledge, awareness and practices of physicians in primary-care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

PurposeDiabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious cause of irreversible blindness and is the most common complication of diabetes. Annual fundus examination for diabetics aids in the prevention of blindness and allows intervening at a timely manner. As primary care physicians (PCP) are the main providers for diabetic care in Saudi Arabia, we aim to evaluate the current knowledge and awareness, and to assess practices among PCP regarding DR. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study covering 46 randomly selected primary-care centers in Riyadh during October 2015. A Self-administered questionnaire was distributed to PCP containing 3 sections. The first section covered participants' demographics and professional background. The second section contained multiple-choice questions on knowledge related to diabetes and DR. The third section was to assess physicians' practices. ResultsA total of 216 PCPs completed the questionnaire. The mean overall knowledge score was 57±14 out of 100. There was a significant difference in knowledge score between physicians who had obtained a subspecialty degree in family medicine compared to others (59±14, 53.3±14 respectively; P=0.003). Only 19% of PCPs were aware of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections as a modality of treatment. A defect was found in the screening and follow-up of type 1 diabetics, and only 24% of physicians correctly referred patients with type 1 diabetes to an ophthalmologist. ConclusionOur study uncovered areas of defects in knowledge among PCP regarding DR. This needs to be addressed in future seminars and workshops with an emphasis on the proper ophthalmological screening and management of diabetic patients.

Saudi Women Information About Two Selected Contraceptive Methods in Riyadh

Contraception is important for reducing the rate of unplanned pregnancy in all ages, some abortions, allowing a spacing of families, and improving the health of women. Studies stressed that successfully using contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy is a complex undertaking that requires alignment of multiple domains: knowledge about available methods, personal attitudes and beliefs, subjective norms, and a person's ability to obtain and actually use a birth control method. Advance practice nurses in many settings can prescribe and insert contraceptive devices. The present study aimed to determine women’s knowledge level regarding oral contraception pills (OCP) and intrauterine device (IUD) in Riyadh, and assessing the factors associated with this knowledge; either socio-demographic characteristics or gynecological and obstetrical history. A cross-sectional prospective study conducted among Saudi women attending ten primary care centers in Riyadh, from January to March 2016. Two hundred women participated, the women aged ≥18 years who agreed to contribute to a study concerning contraception. A structured questionnaire was developed and used to compiled respondent socio-demographic, gynecological and obstetric history. It also assessed defendant’s knowledge regarding oral contraceptive pills and intrauterine device. Most of the study sample (97.5%) were educated and only (2.5%) illiterate. About (75%) were employees, (23%) were bachelors. (66%) Are using or at a point used contraceptives. Among those who used contraceptive methods, (61%) used OCP and (8%) used IUD. The primary source of women's knowledge regarding contraceptives was the health care team; doctor, nurse, and pharmacist. Women’s average knowledge score level regarding contraceptives was relatively low; 39.85 of OCP and 33.40 of IUD. Multiple regression analysis showed that age, educational attainment, parity and use of contraceptives influencing knowledge level regarding OCP or IUD. In conclusion, oral contraceptive pills (OCP) are the most commonly used contraceptive/ than the intrauterine device (IUD) so nurses should develop more effective education about contraceptive methods.

Violence against health workers in Family Medicine Centers.

BackgroundHealth care violence is a significant worldwide problem with negative consequences on both the safety and well-being of health care workers as well as workplace activities. Reports examining health care violence in Saudi Arabia are limited and the results are conflicting.ObjectiveTo estimate the prevalence and determine the demographic and occupational characteristics associated with workplace violence in primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.MethodsA cross-sectional study included 270 health care workers in 12 family medicine centers in Riyadh during November and December 2014. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to estimate the frequency, timing, causes, reactions, and consequences of workplace violence plus participants’ demographic and occupational data.ResultsA total 123 health care workers (45.6%) experienced some kind of violence over 12 months prior to the study. These included physical (6.5%) and nonphysical violence (99.2%), including verbal violence (94.3%) and intimidation (22.0%). Offenders were patients (71.5%) in the majority of cases, companions (20.3%), or both (3.3%). Almost half (48.0%) of health care workers who experienced violence did nothing, 38.2% actively reported the event, and 13.8% consulted a colleague. A significant association of workplace violence was found with working multiple shifts, evening or night shift, and lack of an encouraging environment to report violence.ConclusionWorkplace violence is still a significant problem in primary care centers. The high frequency of violence together with underreporting may indicate the inefficiency of the current safety program. More safety programs and training activities for health care workers, efficient reporting system, and zero tolerance policies need to be implemented to minimize workplace violence against health workers.

Menopausal symptoms and quality of life among Saudi women visiting primary care clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

ObjectivesMenopause is associated with somatic, vasomotor, psychological, and sexual complaints that may affect quality of life. We determined the prevalence and severity of menopausal symptoms and their impact on the quality of life among Saudi women visiting primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from October to November 2010. In total, 119 women aged 45–60 years were randomly interviewed using a questionnaire. Participants were divided into three categories: premenopausal (n=31), perimenopausal (n=49), and postmenopausal (n=39). The Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) assessed the prevalence and severity of eleven menopausal symptoms. Mean scores of menopausal categories were compared for different symptoms.ResultsThe mean age at menopause was 48.3±3 years (median, 49 years). The symptoms reported to be most prevalent were joint and muscle pain (80.7%), physical and mental exhaustion (64.7%), and hot flushes and sweating (47.1%). Somatic and psychological symptoms were highly prevalent in perimenopausal women compared to other groups. The mean overall quality-of-life score was higher in perimenopausal women, while the total MRS score indicated that the symptoms were mild in severity (MRS <9).ConclusionThe prevalence of menopausal symptoms was comparable to previous studies in Asian women; however, the prevalence of classic symptoms of hot flushes and night sweats was lower than reported in Western studies. Saudi women reported an MRS score indicating milder severity of symptoms, reflecting better quality of life and ability to cope with climacteric symptoms.

Adult depression screening in Saudi primary care: prevalence, instrument and cost.

BackgroundBy the year 2020 depression would be the second major cause of disability adjusted life years lost, as reported by the World Health Organization. Depression is a mental illness which causes persistent low mood, a sense of despair, and has multiple risk factors. Its prevalence in primary care varies between 15.3-22%, with global prevalence up to 13% and between 17-46% in Saudi Arabia. Despite several studies that have shown benefit of early diagnosis and cost-savings of up to 80%, physicians in primary care setting continue to miss out on 30-50% of depressed patients in their practices.MethodsA cross sectional study was conducted at three large primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia aiming at estimating point prevalence of depression and screening cost among primary care adult patients, and comparing Patient Health Questionnaires PHQ-2 with PHQ-9. Adult individuals were screened using Arabic version of PHQ-2 and PHQ-9. PHQ-2 scores were correlated with PHQ-9 scores using linear regression. A limited cost-analysis and cost saving estimates of depression screening was done using the Human Capital approach.ResultsPatients included in the survey analysis were 477, of whom 66.2% were females, 77.4% were married, and nearly 20% were illiterate. Patients exhibiting depressive symptoms on the basis of PHQ9 were 49.9%, of which 31% were mild, 13.4% moderate, 4.4% moderate-severe and 1.0% severe cases. Depression scores were significantly associated with female gender (p-value 0.049), and higher educational level (p-value 0.002). Regression analysis showed that PHQ-2 & PHQ-9 were strongly correlated R = 0.79, and R2 = 0.62. The cost-analysis showed savings of up to 500 SAR ($133) per adult patient screened once a year.ConclusionThe point prevalence of screened depression is high in primary care visitors in Saudi Arabia. Gender and higher level of education were found to be significantly associated with screened depression. Majority of cases were mild to moderate, PHQ-2 was equivocal to PHQ 9 in utility and that screening for depression in primary care setting is cost saving.

A survey of the attitude and practice of research among doctors in Riyadh Military Hospital primary care centers, Saudi Arabia

Objectives:To assess the attitude and practice of doctors in the Military Hospital Primary Care Centers in Riyadh (RMH) toward research and to identify the main barriers to conduct research.Materials and Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to April, 2010, at RMH primary care centers. The sample included all general practitioners (GPs) working in primary healthcare centers. A self-administered questionnaire was formulated from different sources and used as a tool for data collection.Results:The response rate was 75%. Among the respondents 96.9% agreed that research in primary care was important for different reasons. Most of the GPs had a positive attitude toward research: 68% had been influenced by research in their clinical practice and 66% had an interest in conducting research, and74.2% of the respondents had plans to do research in the future. Insufficient time was the most frequently cited barrier (83.5%) for participating in research, followed by the lack of support (58.8%).Conclusions:Many of the GPs had a positive attitude toward research, but had no publications or plan for new research. Lack of time, support, and money were the main constraints for carrying out research.