Saudi Arabian Population Research Articles

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation in Reducing Intraocular Pressure in Refractory Glaucoma in the Saudi Arabian Population at a Tertiary Care Centre

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (AGVI) in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with refractory glaucoma. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed the medical records of 60 patients who received AGVI for refractory glaucoma. Data collected included demographics, type of glaucoma, preoperative and postoperative IOP, number of glaucoma medications, and any surgical complications. Success was defined as achieving an IOP <21 mmHg at the final follow-up visit. Results: At the final follow-up (mean duration of 11.6 months), AGVI achieved successful IOP control (IOP of <21 mmHg) in 40 eyes (66.7%). The mean number of glaucoma medications decreased significantly from 2.95 preoperatively to 1.98 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) had a lower success rate compared to other types of glaucoma. Prior glaucoma surgery was associated with a higher risk of failing to reach target IOP, although this trend was not statistically significant (p = 0.108). Conclusion: AGVI implantation effectively lowered IOP in patients with refractory glaucoma, especially in the short term. However, long-term success rates were lower, and NVG showed less favorable outcomes. AGVI is a valuable option for managing refractory glaucoma, but careful patient selection is essential. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term efficacy and refine treatment strategies.

Key Factors Driving Physiotherapy Use in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Retrospective Clinical Data Analysis

Background/objectives: Understanding the factors that influence physiotherapy (PT) service use among patients with nonspecific lower back pain (LBP) is necessary to optimize treatment strategies, healthcare resource allocation, and the planning of value-based initiatives. We report factors that influence the number of PT visits per episode of care (defined as a referral from a physician) for an LBP population in Saudi Arabia, and compare them with patients experiencing their first and recurrent episodes of LBP. Methods: LBP patients were retrospectively enrolled from a clinical dataset derived from an outpatient PT clinic in Saudi Arabia. The primary outcome variable was the number of PT visits performed per episode of care. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the relationships between the numbers of PT visits per episode of care and independent variables. Results: The number of PT sessions per week (β 0.34, p < 0.001), compliance with PT sessions (β 0.31, p < 0.001), and pre-pain scores (β 0.29, p < 0.001) explained 41.8% (adjusted R2 0.32) of the variance in the total number of PT visits per episode of care (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Factors that might improve value-based care for LBP patients are reported. The more PT sessions per week, compliance with these sessions, and higher baseline pain scores predict a higher number of PT visits per episode of care among these patients. While reported for a Saudi Arabian population, there is no reason to believe that these findings do not apply internationally.

Awareness of Interventional Radiology and The Associated Radiation Exposure Risk Among The Public Population and Primary Care Physicians in Saudi Arabia

Introduction: The imperative for healthcare professionals to possess a comprehensive understanding of radiation doses and the associated risks of the diagnostic imaging processes they recommend is underscored by the evolving landscape of medical diagnostics and treatment. Interventional radiology (IR) plays a crucial role in modern medicine, offering minimally invasive alternatives to traditional surgery. However, public and healthcare practitioner awareness of IR and its associated radiation risks remains inadequately explored, particularly in regions like Saudi Arabia. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the awareness of interventional radiology (IR) and the associated risks of radiological procedures among the general public and healthcare practitioners in Saudi Arabia, identify knowledge gaps, and inform future educational initiatives. Methods: Participants undergoing radiological procedures were selected using a random sampling technique, with stratification based on gender, age, nationality, and education level. The survey, conducted in Saudi Arabia, comprised 48 questions in yes-or-no and multiple-choice formats, covering demographic information, comprehension of interventional radiology, and awareness of radiation exposure risks. Results: Out of 625 respondents, 62.7% had no prior knowledge of IR, and 94.2% had never undergone IR procedures. A significant proportion (55%) lacked information about the radiation exposure associated with IR, and 57.9% perceived risks from radiation in imaging devices. In the post-educational video, 88.2% favoured IR over traditional treatment methods, with 57.8% expressing a willingness to undergo IR procedures in the future. Conclusion: The study reveals a substantial lack of awareness and knowledge about interventional radiology and radiation risks among the Saudi Arabian population and healthcare practitioners. There is a critical need to enhance public and professional understanding of IR to ensure informed decision-making and patient consent, necessitating targeted educational programs to bridge these knowledge gaps.

Orthodontists’ Knowledge and Perception of the Prolonged Use of Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPEs) in the Saudi Arabian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Orthodontists’ Knowledge and Perception of the Prolonged Use of Rapid Palatal Expanders (RPEs) in the Saudi Arabian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Prevalence and Predictors of Premature Graying of Hair Before the Age of 30: A Cross-Sectional Study in SaudiArabia.

Graying is an inherent and unavoidable consequence of the aging process, impacting individuals of all genders. There are limited studies in Saudi Arabia that have examined the prevalence and predictors of premature graying of hair (PGH). This study aims to explore the prevalence and predictors of PGH before the age of 30 among the population of Saudi Arabia. This is a cross-sectional online survey that was conducted between July 2023 and February 2024 in Saudi Arabia. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors of having gray hair before the age of 30. A total of 1193 participants were involved in this study. A significant portion of respondents reported having gray hair before the age of 30 (55.9%). The younger population (younger than 44 years), smokers, and those who have comorbidities, have anxiety, have depression, have a family history of gray hair before the age of 30 years, have a dry scalp, suffer from vitamin or mineral deficiencies, have hair loss due to immune diseases (such as alopecia), and use minoxidil or rosemary for hair loss were more likely to have gray hair before the age of 30 years (p < 0.05). This study highlighted the high prevalence rate and associated predictors of PGH in Saudi Arabia. Identified predictors include genetic, health, and lifestyle factors. Healthcare professionals and decision makers are advised to promote the awareness of the general public on its risk factors to enhance the prevention of PGH. Public health initiatives include campaigns on smoking cessation, healthy nutrition, and mental health.

Arabic Translation and Rasch Validation of PROMIS Anxiety Short Form among General Population in Saudi Arabia.

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the PROMIS Anxiety Short Form 8a item bank into Arabic for the general population of Saudi Arabia. The PROMIS Anxiety Short Form was translated according to the FACIT group method. Second, psychometric validation was conducted on a convenience sample of 322 participants (mean age, 26 ± 10.4 years; predominantly female) from the general population in Saudi Arabia. Rasch analysis (Winsteps® version 5.6.1) was used to examine category functioning, item fit, the person separation index, item difficulty, unidimensionality, and local dependency. Translation and cultural adaptation demonstrated that most of the items were culturally suitable and conveyed the same underlying concepts as the original scale. The five response categories of the scale satisfied the category functioning criteria, and all items fit the underlying construct, with the exception of one item that demonstrated a misfit. The item difficulty demonstrated poor targeting for the sample population; however, the person separation index and reliability were good (2.67 and 0.88, respectively) and no local dependency was noted. The Arabic translation of PROMIS-A SF8a demonstrated good structural validity and psychometrics, making it a valuable tool for screening anxiety in Arabic-speaking populations. The application of this outcome measure shows promise for healthcare professionals and patients alike, as it contributes to the provision of high-quality care and formulation of appropriate treatment plans.

Prevalence and Association of Obesity, Depression, and Psychological Stress Among the Population of Saudi Arabia

Background: Obesity, stress, and depression are widespread global issues that have a significant impact on people's personal and public health. Studies reveal that the incidence of anxiety and sadness is significantly higher in obese people. Purpose: This study aimed to find ‏the prevalence and association of obesity, depression, and psychological stress among the population of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving the society in general Saudi Arabian population that was conducted. A self-administered questionnaire is disseminated to the populace through an online platform. Results: About 72.1 percent of the 1075 respondents were female, while 52.6 percent were between the ages of 21 and 30. The proportion of obese individuals amounted to 20.6%. In contrast to melancholy (39.4%), psychological tension was present at a prevalence of 77.8%. A statistically significant correlation was observed between stress and depression; however, no such correlation was found between depression and overweight or obesity. Conclusion: Our study indicates that, contrary to what the literature suggests, numerous stressors rather than melancholy may be the cause of obesity rather than a risk factor for the condition. Further investigation is required to ascertain the correlation between psychological tension, obesity, and melancholy.

HLA Genetic Variants in COVID-19 Susceptibility: Assessing Diversity in Indian and Global Populations

Background: The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has had a global impact on various ethnic groups. In order to assess the genetic predisposition of the Indian population towards COVID-19, a comparative analysis was conducted using the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) to investigate the frequencies of polymorphisms directly or potentially associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, severity, immune response, and fatal outcomes in comparison to other major populations. Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the genetic predisposition of the Indian population to COVID-19 by analyzing the frequencies and associations of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) polymorphisms. In addition, by delineating the role of specific HLA variants in the Indian context, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of genetic factors influencing COVID-19 impact and contribute to personalized approaches for disease management and prevention across diverse ethnic groups. Methods: We collected allelic information for DRB1 gene from 653 populations globally, as documented in The Allele Frequency Net Database (AFND). Data on COVID-19 susceptibility, severity, mortality, and protective factors were obtained from a previous global study. This study aimed to compare the specific frequencies of HLA-DRB1* in different ethnic groups, including other Indian populations with COVID-19-associated alleles and protective factors. Results: HLA-DRB1*01 was identified as a significant determinant of COVID-19 susceptibility among patients in 28 states of Mexico, whereas DRB1*08 in Saudi Arabian populations, DRB1*09:01 in Japanese populations, and DRB1*15:01 in Italian populations also showed this association. Likewise, DRB1*04 in the Iranian population played a role in disease severity, and DRB1*08 in the Italian population was associated with mortality in COVID-19 patients. In addition, alleles DRB1*01:01 and DRB1*04:01 were found to exhibit a protective role in Northeast England, whereas DRB1*04 demonstrated protective effects in Saudi Arabian populations. Conclusion: The involvement of HLA in COVID-19 requires further investigation, and epidemiological studies should focus on HLA profiles as determinants of the host immune system. Prolonged homozygosity in particular genomic regions could potentially increase susceptibility to COVID-19 infection. Therefore, prudent management strategies are recommended for this pandemic in isolated communities in India and worldwide.

Awareness and Knowledge of Celiac Disease Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated systemic disorder affecting nutrient absorption triggered by both environmental (gluten) and genetic factors. This study aimed to determine the level of awareness and knowledge of CD among the general population of Saudi Arabia. A community-based online cross-sectional study was conducted between August and October 2022 to examine the awareness regarding signs, symptoms, complications, and treatment of celiac disease. Data were collected and analyzed from 1,675 participants distributed across the five regions in Saudi Arabia. Analysis shows that 65.1% of the participants were familiar with the symptoms of celiac disease, and 49.6% confirmed that symptoms, blood tests, and endoscopy are the best way to diagnose celiac disease. The mean awareness score for the study participants was 71.8 (SD 13.9), with 5.2% of the participants needed a better level of awareness. Having a family history of celiac disease was an important predictor of having a higher level of awareness of celiac disease (p&lt;0.001). The general public in Saudi Arabia demonstrates a moderate to high level of awareness of CD, emphasizing the need for extensive efforts to maintain high awareness of CD among the general public.

Translation and Validation of the Arabic Version of the Cerebral Palsy-Quality of Life Child Self-Reported Questionnaire Among Children in the Saudi Arabian Population.

This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Cerebral Palsy-Quality of Life Child Self-Reported (CP-QoL Child Self-Report) questionnaire after it was translated and culturally adapted into Arabic. This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted during the period from February 2021 to June 2023 in Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City (SBAHC) and the Children with Disability Association in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on children with cerebral palsy (CP) between the ages of nine to 12 years. After translation and cross-cultural adaptation, the questionnaire was administered to 65 children. The reliability and internal consistency of the tool were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's alpha. The validity was analyzed through the association between the CP-QoL Child Self-Report questionnaire and the Arabic version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 3.0-CP module (Mapi Research Trust, Lyon, France) using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The overall internal consistency was 0.870, where it ranged from 0.616 for the pain and impact of disability domain to 0.748 for the social well-being and acceptance domain. The interobserver (test-retest) reliability ranged from 0.540 to 0.779. There was a weak correlation between the domains of the CP-QoL Child Self-Report questionnaire and different domains of PedsQL-CP module. The overall quality of life (QoL) score of the children with CP who participated in the current study was 57.86±4.97. The result of the current study suggests that the English version of the CP-QoL Child Self-Report questionnaire was effectively translated into Arabic and had good psychometric properties in evaluating the QoL of Saudi children with CP aged between nine and 12 years.

Relationship Between Ankle Ligamentous Injuries and Osteochondral Lesions in a Saudi Arabian Population: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ankle ligamentous injuries and osteochondral defects (OCDs) and to determine the incidence of these conditions within the Saudi Arabian population. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 215 patients (110 males and 105 females) who sought medical advice for an ankle injury at our institute from January 2017 to August 2022. The patients were divided according to age, sex, presence and type of ligamentous injury, and status of OCDs. Patients' ages were categorized into three groups: younger than 30 years (48 patients), 30-60 years (145 patients), and older than 60 years (22 patients). The patients were assessed for ligamentous ankle sprains, tears, and OCDs by reviewing their magnetic resonance imaging reports from radiology records. The exclusion criteria included ankle fracture, ankle surgery, osteoarthritis of the ankle joint, inflammatory arthritis, and congenital deformity of the ankle. The data were collected using a simple questionnaire created via Google Forms. Results Of the 24 patients with OCD, 23 had OCD of the talus. Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury was the most common injury (75 patients), whereas posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) injury was the least common. The only significant relationship between ligamentous injury and OCD was observed between PTFL injury and OCD of the talus (P = 0.041). Conclusions In patients with an ankle injury, the most common OCDs occur at the talus, whereas the most injured ligament is the ATFL. Nevertheless, a significant relationship was observed between PTFL injury and OCD of the talus. The findings underscore the importance of considering specific ligament injuries when diagnosing and managing OCDs, especially in patients with chronic ankle pain.

Perceptions Regarding the Use of E-cigarettes Among Smokers in Saudi Arabia.

Background Adults and young people selectelectronic cigarettes (ECs) due to their perceived lower risk compared to traditional combustible cigarettes. Objective This study aimed to measure the perceptions of the use of electronic cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool among the population of Saudi Arabia. Methods Between October 2023 and November 2023, we conducted a cross-sectional study of Saudi Arabia's general population over prominent social media platforms. We strictly adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines to reportour results. Results Of the 376 total participants, the majority (89.6%) were male, with a median age of 35 years, and 96.3% were of Saudi nationality. Nearly half (47.3%) held Bachelor's degrees. Approximately 55.6% reported having previously attempted to quit smoking on multiple occasions. The predominant method for quitting was the use of ECs, which was reported by 88.7% of the participants. Nearly two-thirds (70%) perceived ECs as an effective cessation tool. Among those who had used EC to quit smoking, 62.5% had succeeded, while one-third (37.5%) were unsuccessful. The most frequently reported side effects were sore throat, changes in appetite, and headache, each of which affected ~50% of the participants. Conclusion This study highlights the complex relationship between ECuse and smoking cessation among Saudi Arabian smokers. Although many users perceive ECs as effective cessation tools, their actual success rates in terms of long-term abstinence from smoking are questionable.

What could be the role of genetic tests and machine learning of AXIN2 variant dominance in non-syndromic hypodontia? A case-control study in orthodontically treated patients

BackgroundHypodontia is the most prevalent dental anomaly in humans, and is primarily attributed to genetic factors. Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with hypodontia, genetic risk assessment remains challenging due to population-specific SNP variants. Therefore, we aimed to conducted a genetic analysis and developed a machine-learning-based predictive model to examine the association between previously reported SNPs and hypodontia in the Saudi Arabian population. Our case–control study included 106 participants (aged 8–50 years; 64 females and 42 males), comprising 54 hypodontia cases and 52 controls. We utilized TaqManTM Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction and allelic genotyping to analyze three selected SNPs (AXIN2: rs2240308, PAX9: rs61754301, and MSX1: rs12532) in unstimulated whole saliva samples. The chi-square test, multinomial logistic regression, and machine-learning techniques were used to assess genetic risk by using odds ratios (ORs) for multiple target variables.ResultsMultivariate logistic regression indicated a significant association between homozygous AXIN2 rs2240308 and the hypodontia phenotype (ORs [95% confidence interval] 2.893 [1.28–6.53]). Machine-learning algorithms revealed that the AXIN2 homozygous (A/A) genotype is a genetic risk factor for hypodontia of teeth #12, #22, and #35, whereas the AXIN2 homozygous (G/G) genotype increases the risk for hypodontia of teeth #22, #35, and #45. The PAX9 homozygous (C/C) genotype is associated with an increased risk for hypodontia of teeth #22 and #35.ConclusionsOur study confirms a link between AXIN2 and hypodontia in Saudi orthodontic patients and suggests that combining machine-learning models with SNP analysis of saliva samples can effectively identify individuals with non-syndromic hypodontia.

Native and prosthetic septic arthritis in a university hospital in Saudi Arabia: A retrospective study.

Septic arthritis, whether native or prosthetic, poses a significant challenge in clinical practice due to its potentially devastating consequences. Despite its clinical importance, there remains a dearth of comprehensive studies and standardized diagnostic criteria, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To investigate the epidemiology, microbiological profiles, and clinical characteristics of native and prosthetic septic joints in the Saudi Arabian population. Medical records of patients diagnosed with septic arthritis between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2022, were retrospectively reviewed. Data regarding patient demographics, clinical presentation, microbiological cultures, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. In a retrospective review of 52 cases of septic arthritis, a balanced gender distribution was observed (1:1 ratio), with the knee being the most commonly affected joint (80.8%). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus predominated in native joints (24.2%), while Brucella spp. was more prevalent in prosthetic joints (21.1%). Joint preservation was achieved in most cases (84.6%), with no significant difference in clinical features between native and prosthetic joints. However, certain comorbidities were more common in native joint cases, including renal impairment (P = 0.002), hemodialysis (P = 0.004), heart disease (P = 0.013), and chronic liver disease (P = 0.048). At the same time, osteoarthritis was more prevalent in prosthetic joint cases (P = 0.013). Vancomycin was the most frequently used antibiotic (26.9%), and most patients received antibiotics before joint aspiration (57.7%). Surgical intervention, predominantly arthrotomy, was required in most cases (32.7%). Notably, a significant association was found between joint type and mortality (odds ratio = 0.587, P = 0.048), as well as the Charlson comorbidity index and mortality (P = 0.001). This study highlighted distinctive microbiological profiles and etiological factors in septic arthritis cases in the Saudi Arabian population.

Genetic Implications and Management of Epidermolysis Bullosa in the Saudi Arabian Population.

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a genetic skin disorder characterized by skin fragility and blister formation. This review explores the genetic basis and management of EB in the Saudi population, emphasizing the need for genetic insights to enable precise diagnosis, targeted treatments, and effective counseling. Diagnosis in Saudi Arabia relies on clinical assessments and genetic testing. Prenatal diagnosis may be suggested in families with children affected by EB, but it is not widely used in the Middle East. Current management focuses on symptom relief, while emerging experimental approaches such as gene and stem cell therapies are under extensive research. Challenges in EB research include developing effective targeted therapies and understanding the variability in how genotypes manifest phenotypically. Continuous research is crucial to enhance diagnostic methods, therapeutic approaches, and overall patient care.

Molecular genetic diversity analysis of the Nigerian laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis) and related species using selected mitochondrial genes

Nigerian laughing doves (Streptopelia senegalensis) are small birds with long tail and living in bushes of the Sub-Saharan regions of African continent, the middle East and Asia, especially India. They are used for food, medicinal and religious purposes in Nigeria. Despite their usage, there is a lack of information on the genetic diversity of laughing doves in Nigeria. This study investigates taxonomic order and diversity of Nigerian laughing doves based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and cytochrome B (CYTB). The results showed 20 haplotypes within the 28 Nigerian coupled with Global Streptopelia genus using concatenated sequences. The Nigerian laughing dove constitute 16 distinct haplotypes. The haplotype diversity was 0.743 ± 0.070, and nucleotide diversity 0.154 ± 0.101 within Nigerian population using COI sequences. Phylogenetic tree showed that Nigerian laughing doves were in the same monophyletic clade with other Streptopela orientalis, S. decocto and S. chinensis; and this confirmed that Nigerian laughing doves might have shared descendant. The median-joining network further grouped Nigerian laughing doves into two: the first group consisting of Nigerian populations only, while the second group are with Saudi Arabian and Djiboutian populations. Population expansion was revealed in Nigerian dove individuals. This study revealed 16 unique haplotypes among Nigerian laughing dove population using concatenated sequences. Interestingly, CYTB showed clustering in African laughing doves (For instance, Nigerian individuals shared haplotypes with Sao Tome and Principe, an island country in the Gulf of Guinea, the western equatorial coast of Central Africa). The current data is the first report on genetic diversity of Nigerian laughing dove using mitochondrial COI and CYTB genes.

The Prevalence, Awareness, and Associated Risk Factors of Inguinal Hernia Among the Adult Population in Saudi Arabia.

Inguinal hernias lead to several potentially fatal complications such as strangulation. Assessing the prevalence, risk factors, and beliefs of a population is essential to develop appropriate preventive strategies. This study investigated the prevalence, risk factors, and awareness of inguinal hernia in the adult population of Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study enrolled 461 adults aged between 18 and 60 years after excluding those aged <18 and >60 years. This study was conducted in five regions of Saudi Arabia (north, west, central, south, and east). A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data on the prevalence, perception, and awareness of the participants. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for inguinal hernia. The study revealed that most participants were men n=262 (56.8%), aged between 18 and 25 years n=241 (52.3%), were single n=278 (60.3%), had a bachelor's degree n=225 (48.8%) and earned less than 50,000 Saudi Riyals annually n=285 (61.8%). Most participants resided in urban areas n=366 (79.4%) with their parents n=230 (49.9%). The prevalence of inguinal hernias in adults was low (5.2%). Our results indicated a significant association between family history of inguinal hernia, chronic cough, bronchial asthma, smoking, and inguinal hernia (p < 0.001). Young adults and undergraduates displayed significantly low awareness of inguinal hernias (p < 0.001). Family history of inguinal hernia, chronic cough, bronchial asthma, and smoking were factors associated with inguinal hernia. Low awareness levels were observed among young undergraduates, with a moderate overall level of awareness.

Stroke Knowledge and Response Among the General Population in Saudi Arabia: A Population-Based Survey.

Stroke, a condition that disrupts brain function and can result in long-lasting clinical symptoms or death, remains a substantial global health concern. General awareness of stroke leads to a proper response to stroke, pursuit of medical treatment, and a better outcome. Our study aims to explore how the general Saudi Arabian population responds to stroke, investigate the relationship between stroke knowledge and appropriate actions, and identify the most relied upon medical information source about stroke among the public. By highlighting these aspects, we aspire to contribute to the development of effective stroke prevention and management strategies in Saudi Arabia. This descriptive, cross-sectional, web-based study was carried out across multiple regions in Saudi Arabia. Data collection involved a validated online questionnaire (STAT) in Arabic,targeting adults aged 18 and older. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. The study included 390 participants. Notable findings emerged regarding the recognition of stroke symptoms and the factors influencing this recognition. A substantial proportion of respondents correctly identified visual disturbances (55.9%), motor impairment (39.5%), cardiac symptoms (56.2%), sensory symptoms (32.8%), chest pain (62.6%), and arm weakness (36.7%) as indicators requiring immediate medical attention. However, there were lower correct response rates for symptoms such as sudden dizziness (22.8%), confusion (16.9%), difficulty understanding (27.9%), and urinary symptoms (26.9%). Older individuals and retirees generally scored higher in correctly identifying these symptoms. Our study highlights a commendable level of awareness of certain stroke symptoms, such as visual disturbances and chest pain, among the general population of Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, notable gaps remain in recognizing other symptoms, such as sudden dizziness and confusion. This identification gap presents a clear opportunity for targeted educational initiatives that are essential to improving public recognition of these symptoms. By addressing these gaps, we aim to enhance the response to stroke incidents, potentially improving outcomes and reducing morbidity rates.

Role of NQO1 Gene Involvement and Susceptibility of T2DM Among Saudi Arabia Population.

NQO1 disruption enhances susceptibility to oxidative stress during hyperglycemia and is a significant contributor to the development and progression of diabetes. Oxidative stress has been linked to several symptoms, including hyperglycemia, reactive oxygen species buildup, high blood pressure, and the expression of inflammatory markers. Therefore, the present research aimed to evaluate the genetic abnormality of NQO1 (rs1800566, C609T) gene polymorphism, expression, and vitamin-D level assessment among Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. The study included 100 newly diagnosed T2DM cases and 100 healthy individuals as healthy controls. Total RNA was extracted from the whole blood using the TRIzol method, and further cDNA was synthesized, and expression was evaluated. There is a significant difference in NQO1 (rs1800566, C609T) genotype distribution among the T2DM patients and healthy controls (p = 0.04). Compared with the NQO1 CC wild-type genotype, the NQO1 CT heterozygous genotype had an odds ratio of 1.96 (1.08-3.55), and the NQO1 TT mutant type genotype had an odds ratio of 3.31 (0.61-17.77). Significantly decreased expression of NQO1 mRNA was observed with heterozygous CT (p < 0.0001) and homozygous mutant TT genotype (p = 0.0004), compared with homozygous wild-type CC genotype. NQO1 mRNA expression level was also compared with vitamin D levels among the T2DM patients. T2DM patients with vitamin D deficiency had 1.83-fold NQO1 mRNA expression, while vitamin D insufficient and sufficient T2DM cases had 3.31-fold (p < 0.0001) and 3.70-fold (p < 0.0001) NQO1 mRNA expression. It was concluded that NQO1 (rs1800566, C609T) CT and TT genotypes played a significant role in the worseness of type II diabetes mellitus, and decreased expression of NQO1 mRNA expression could be an essential factor for disease worseness as well as hypermethylation could be a factor for reduced expression leading to disease severity. The decreased NQO1 mRNA expression with heterozygous CT and mutant TT genotype associated with vitamin D deficiency may contribute to disease progression.

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease among the urban population of Saudi Arabia

IntroductionGastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a significant global health issue affecting millions and placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. This study investigates the prevalence and influencing factors of GERD among the urban population in Saudi Arabia, amidst rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes. The goal is to provide insights for targeted interventions and improved public health strategies. MethodologyA cross-sectional study was conducted using a comprehensive methodology. A validated, bilingual questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, awareness, psychosocial aspects, symptoms, and medical history. The study included 493 participants, and data were collected through an online survey. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and Excel, maintaining a statistical power of 80 ​%. ResultsThe survey included 493 participants, revealing the following key findings: Gender distribution: 41.37 ​% male, 58.62 ​% female (p ​= ​0.053). Age categories: 18–25 (25.35 ​%), 26–40 (18.05 ​%), 41–55 (26.97 ​%), 56 and above (29.61 ​%) (p ​= ​0.055). Nationality: 51.92 ​% Saudi, 48.07 ​% non-Saudi (p ​= ​0.058). Other notable demographics: marital status, education levels, smoking habits, nutritional habits, BMI categories, and prevalence of bariatric surgery. GERD symptoms and psychological factors showed significant associations. Treatment preferences and lifestyle modifications varied widely. The data provide essential insights for tailored interventions and healthcare strategies. ConclusionThis study highlights the complex demographic patterns and lifestyle factors associated with GERD in Saudi Arabia's urban population. The findings emphasize the importance of tailored interventions and inform healthcare, research, and policy decisions for effective GERD management in urban settings.