Knowledge of Saudi female university students regarding cervical cancer and acceptance of the human papilloma virus vaccine

To assess the level of knowledge regarding cervical cancer and the acceptance of the human papilloma virus [HPV] vaccine among Saudi female students in health colleges. This cross-sectional study of a convenient sample encompassed 1400 students in Health Colleges at Princess Nora Bint Abdul Rahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia was conducted between December 2013 and February 2014. A self-administrated questionnaire was distributed to all participants. Data collected included socio-demographic data, knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and clinical presentation, Pap smear, and HPV vaccine acceptance. The questionnaire reliability as tested by Cronbach's alpha was 0.82. The response rate was 89.9%, and data analysis revealed that 95.7% of students had poor knowledge level. The Pap smear was poorly recognized as a screening tool, with 46.7% of students having heard of the test. Senior and medical students had a significantly higher knowledge score. Father's health profession, high monthly income, and presence of cervical cancer among family members or friends increased the level of knowledge. Vaccine acceptance is influenced by its price, approximately 80% of students thought that an affordable vaccine price should not exceed 300 Saudi Riyals. Perceived barriers to the vaccine were fear of injections and vaccine side effects. There is a lack of knowledge and misinformation regarding cervical cancer, Pap smear, and HPV as a major risk factor for cancer of the cervix. These data can be used as a benchmark to formulate effective awareness programs

Experience and attitude of interns to pelvic and sensitive area examinations during their undergraduate medical course

To explore the experience of interns in sensitive area examination during their undergraduate medical course and identify factors interfering with such examinations. A cross sectional study was carried out from May to June 2010. Interns [n=315] at King Saud University College of Medicine were invited via email to complete a web-based questionnaire developed using surveymonkey.com. Out of 315 interns, 211 completed the questionnaire; 60% males and 40% females. The mean percentage of interns who never performed any of these examinations was 28.9% for digital rectal examination, 17.5% for breast, 43.1% for female pelvic examination, 13.3% for inguinal [hernia], and 34.6% for male external genitalia. Compared to females, male students conducted more rectal examinations [87 versus 63, p<0.005], and male external genitalia examinations [112 versus 26, p<0.001]. On the other hand, compared to male students, females conducted more pelvic examination [68 versus 52, p=0.03] and breast examinations [92 versus 82, p=0.27]. The most common reasons for not performing sensitive area examinations included patient's refusal [33.1%], and examining patients of opposite gender [27.6%]. Confidence in performance of these examinations was correlated to increased frequency of the examination. This study highlights that most common factors interfering with the students' conducting sensitive area examinations are patient's refusal and examining patients of the opposite sex. There is a strong correlation between increased frequency of conducting an examination and student's confidence in performance.

Knowledge on adherence and safety of the oral contraceptive pill in Saudi women

To assess knowledge regarding adherence and safety of oral contraceptive pills [OCP] in Saudi women. We conducted a cross-sectional prospective study in an outpatient pharmacy at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from April to September 2011. Participants were healthy women aged >/= 18 years with an OCP prescription for contraception. We used a validated questionnaire to assess their knowledge regarding adherence and safety of OCPs. Four hundred and sixty women participated. Most [79%] knew to take an extra pill if they missed one in less than 12 hours, but only 6.5% knew they also had to use extra protection for the next 7 days if it was more than 12 hours. Multiple logistic regression analyses indicated that years of contraceptive use and educational level are predictive factors of better knowledge regarding adherence. Few were aware of the action if they experienced diarrhea for more than 12 hours [10%] or vomiting within 2 hours [13.5%] of taking an OCP. Only 30% knew of the adverse effects of smoking while on OCPs. Weight gain [51%] was the most commonly reported side effect. Most Saudi women taking OCPs have limited knowledge of its correct use regarding missing pills, vomiting and diarrhea, and poor awareness of the effects of smoking while using OCPs.

Factors associated with successful induction of labor

To evaluate the prevalence, indications, and factors associated with successful induction of labor [IOL], and maternal and neonatal outcomes. All women booked for IOL at King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from April 2010 to March 2011 were included. The characteristics of women who had successful IOL were compared to those who delivered by cesarean section [CS]. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the factors associated with successful IOL. During the study period, 564 women had IOL. The prevalence rate of IOL was 16%. Vaginal delivery was achieved in 472 [84%] women. The most common indications for IOL were post-term pregnancy in 174 [31%], and diabetes mellitus in 131 [23.2%] of the participants. Maternal characteristics associated with risk of CS were nulliparity [odds ratio: 1.58; 95% confidence interval: 1.09-2.320; p=0.01], and high maternal body mass index [p=0.01]. Neonates of women with successful IOL had significantly higher APGAR scores [p=0.04], and more frequent pH ?7.1 at delivery [p=0.02]. There was no difference in the rate of post-partum hemorrhage, CS, or ruptured uterus between the women who had IOL, and those who went into spontaneous labor. Nulliparity and maternal weight are the main determinants of the outcome of IOL. Case selection for IOL is vital for achieving outcomes similar to spontaneous labor

Factors influencing students' decision in choosing obstetrics and gynecology as a career in a university hospital in central Saudi Arabia

To determine factors influencing final year medical undergraduate trainees at King Saud University in choosing a career in Obstetrics and Gynecology. In this cross sectional study, the undergraduate final year medical students and interns at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were asked to complete a survey instrument designed to assess possible attracting and detracting factors. The survey was conducted from January 2010 to February 2010. Factors were analyzed in a univariable and multivariable analysis. The survey was distributed to 507 students. Completed questionnaires were returned by 330 participants [response rate 65%]. Overall, 32 [9.7%] of students listed Obstetrics and Gynecology in their top 3 choices. The rotation of students through Obstetrics and Gynecology was the most influential factor attracting 81.3% of the students who chose to take this course. Faculty interaction was a major reason for attracting students accounting for 71.9%, but resident interaction was less attractive where only 37.5% of students mentioned that they were affected positively by residents. Hands-on experience such as performing deliveries and other procedures were significant attracting factors. [p=0.006 and p=0.004]. The findings in this study will hopefully aid in recruiting trainees to the specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Saudi Arabia. Identifying the 5 major attracting factors from our study will allow our institute to integrate these factors in Obstetrics and Gynecology curriculum design, eventually increasing interest in postgraduate training in this specialty