use of mammography among Jordanian women: findings from the behavioral risk factor surveillance system 2007

This study aims to provide a national estimate of the rate of utilization of mammography among Jordanian women aged 35 years and above and the impact of the different variables affecting this utilization. Data were derived from the Risk Factor Surveillance Survey conducted in 2007, focusing on all women aged 35 years and above with a total of 1161. Dependant variables were mammography utilization, while Predictor variables were; age, marital status, education, income, medical insurance, medical service providers, residency and health status as perceived by the respondents. Appropriate analysis was used to assess the relationships between these variables. Only 12.5% had mammography. Utilization increased with increasing age, level of education and with the higher income level. Non-insured and those who obtained medical service through the private sector had more utilization. Women in good health who are residing in the middle part of the country showed higher rates of mammography. This national study has demonstrated underutilization of mammography. It provides basic data for future studies. Initiating a national program for screening helps to find out measures to facilitate utilization of mammography as easy access and reduced cost. Improvement of income, education level and insurance will positively influence mammography utilization

Magnetic resonance imaging of normal lumbar intervertebral foraminal width

Objectives: To study the pattern and changes of lumbar intervertebral foraminal width in asymptomatic Jordanian sample in relation to age, sex and level

Methods: A total of 153 asymptomatic patients [87 males and 66 females] were selected during the study period between June 1999 to June 2000, at Jordan University Hospital and Faculty of medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. Measurements of intervertebral foraminal width at all lumbar levels were done on parasagittal magnetic resonance images. Values were analyzed and significant differences in the means of foraminal width at different levels in every age group and among age groups were determined

Results: The mean foraminal width measured was 10.2 + 0.9mm with a range of 8.5 - 12.4mm. As related to level, values increased in both genders to reach their maximum at L2/3 and L3/4 especially in older age groups. As related to age, foraminal widths in females increased significantly only at L3/4 and L4/5 and reached their maximum values in the 6[th] decade followed by a general decrease especially at upper lumbar levels. In males, foramina] widths exhibited a significant decrease up to the 5[th] decade at upper lumbar levels

Conclusion: As an entirety, the presented baseline data of lumbar FW and FH can serve as a reference for future studies on normal and degenerative spine and is essential to identify Jordanian population at risk of lumbar nerve root entrapment. It may also provide clinicians with a fundamental channel for refining the excellence of their diagnosis and management