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

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