Diabetes related distress in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a community-based study

Background: Living with diabetes can be difficult, since it can affect the patient physically as well as psychologically. Patients with diabetes face psychological issues which may be part of the spectrum of disease experience, distinct from depression, which hinder glycaemic control. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of diabetes related distress, and its association with socio-demographic characteristics, in adults with type 2 diabetes.Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 250 individuals of 30-60 years, with type 2 diabetes.Results: The prevalence of diabetes related distress in the study population was 13.3%; among the sub scales highest reported was regimen related distress 21.6%, followed by physician related 17.2%, emotional burden 16.4%, and inter personal distress 14.8%. Diabetes related distress was found to have significant statistical association with occupational class. In occupational class, distress was higher among unemployed while least in unskilled workers. It was higher among older (above 50 years) participants, males, members of joint family, unmarried and those with more years of education though there was no significant difference.Conclusions: The prevalence of diabetes related distress (13.2%) especially regimen and physician related, underscores need for better clinician involvement paying appropriate attention to systematic diabetes self-care and management education, and timely diagnosis of distress for positive clinical outcome.

Assessment of breast cancer awareness among female university students in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

The aim of this study was to assess female university students' knowledge of breast cancer and its preventative measures and to identify their main misconceptions regarding breast cancer. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2011 and June 2012 and included female students from three large universities in Ajman, United Arab Emirates [UAE]. A stratified random sampling procedure was used. Data were collected through a validated, pilot-tested, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included 35 questions testing knowledge of risk factors, warning signs and methods for the early detection of breast cancer. Participants' opinions regarding breast cancer misconceptions were also sought. Results: The participants [n = 392] were most frequently between 18 and 22 years old [63.5%], non-Emirati [90.1%] and never married [89%]. A family history of breast cancer was reported by 36 [9.2%] of the students. The percentage of participants who had low/below average knowledge scores regarding risk factors, warning signs and methods for early detection of breast cancer was 40.6%, 45.9% and 86.5%, respectively. Significantly higher knowledge scores on risk factors were noticed among participants with a family history of breast cancer [P = 0.03]. The misconception most frequently identified was that "treatment for breast cancer affects a woman's femininity" [62.5%]. A profound lack of knowledge about breast cancer was noted among female university students in the three UAE universities studied. The most prominent gaps in knowledge identified were those concerning breast cancer screening methods

Prevalence of diabetes in patients with acute coronary syndrome: a hospital based study, Ajman, UAE

This research was conducted to determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in patients admitted with Acute Coronary Syndrome at GMCHRC, Ajman, UAE, during the period [2010-2013]. A descriptive study was conducted among 175 ACS patients admitted to the cardiology department in GMC hospital in Ajman. The dependent and independent variables that were included in the checklist were chosen after reviewing several case records of patients with ACS. Patient records were viewed on the computer database and all the necessary information required to achieve the objectives was extracted and filled in the checklist forms. The data was analyzed by SPSS 20 and Chi square test was performed to check for any association between variables. Out of the 175 ACS patients, 75 [43%] were diabetic, of which 63 [84%], were Males and 12 [16%] females. Among different age groups, 27 [65.9%] above 60 years had ACS with DM. With regard to ethnicity, among Arabs 30 [46.9%] and among Non-Arabs 45 [40.5%] had ACS with DM. The most common co-morbid conditions observed in patients who had ACS with DM were hypertension 64 [85.3%] and dyslipidemia 60 [80%]. In the study population 43% of ACS patients were diabetic. Majority of the patients were male who had ACS with DM. Non-Arabs individuals appear to have more ACS with diabetes than Arabs. Patients aged 40-60 had the highest proportion of ACS with DM. The most influential factors which contributed to ACS with DM were dyslipidemia and hypertension and both can be considered as the main risk factor in the presence of diabetes

Awareness about hypertension among entry year undergraduate health science students in gulf medical university, Ajman, UAE

Hypertension is a colossal problem experienced by one in three adults, leading to 1,000 deaths in a day that people need to be aware of various aspects regarding blood pressure. To determine the level of awareness about hypertension among entry year undergraduate heath science students in Ajman, UAE. A cross sectional study among students enrolled in first year, in the four academic programs, with the use of a validated, self-administered questionnaire on different domains of hypertension such as general knowledge, symptoms, complications, risk factors, treatment and management as well as sources of information. Each factor/statement was given a score of one if it was answered correctly and zero for a wrong answer. Out of a total score, a score of fifty percent and above was considered as good knowledge and a score less than fifty percent considered no knowledge. The data was analyzed by SPSS 20, Chi square and Fisher exact test was done. Out of 161 participants, 130 participants were

Reasons for complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus observed in Unites Arab Emirates: an opinion survey among practicing physicians

The present study explored factors responsible for complications of diabetes mellitus as observed in the clinical practice of doctors. One hundred and seven practicing physicians and general practitioners from clinics and hospitals, identified using a snowballing technique starting with one physician in each emirate, participated in the cross sectional survey. The majority [81%] was males, and 62% were from clinics and 48% from hospitals; more than 50% had over 5 years of clinical experience in the UAE. Fifty eight percent of those practicing in clinics and 80.6% in hospitals felt they had the facilities required for monitoring DM and complications. While 22.4% felt that the complications were due to poor glycemic control, 11.2% attributed it to sedentary life-style, 10% to smoking, 9.3% each to diet and co-morbidity, and 4.7% to obesity. Poor glycemic control was considered to be mainly due to low compliance [25.2%], life-style [18.7%], lack of awareness [14%] about the silent disease and its complications, finance [5.6%] and depression [0.9%]. Of the 46 who responded, 57% felt the complications were more common among Asians compared to other nationals. No age, gender or occupational difference was reported. One third of the respondents attributed the complications to poor glycemic control mainly due to low compliance and lack of awareness and hence mostly preventable. Health service needs to organize nationwide campaigns emphasizing diabetic care. Financial and social support are likely to enhance compliance among the victims of this fast increasing slow epidemic

Micro-biota of vaginal infection among women in the reproductive age group: a hospital-based study

To study the prevalence of micro-organisms causing vaginal infection in women of child bearing age attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Department. This study was done with 479 patients in the age group of 15-45 years attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology OPD of Gulf Medical College Hospital, Ajman with various gynecological complains between January 2010 to December 2011. Sociodemographic details along with their reproductive history were recorded from the medical records. Vaginal swabs were taken from the patients irrespective of their marital status and sent for smear examination and culture identification. The presence of concomitant diseases in these patients was also recorded. Out of 479 patients studied, 50% were Asians followed by Middle East and African patients [47%] and Caucasians [3%]. Ninety percent of the patients were in the age group of 20-40 years. Eighty three percent were married and had children and the rest did not have any children. The majority of the women complained of vaginal discharge [83%], pruritus vulvae [45%], dysuria [18%], abdominal pain [16%] and vulvo vaginitis [5%]. Microbiology reports revealed normal flora in 29% of the specimens collected. The most common organism found was Candida species [51%] among the specimens. Bacterial infection was found in 36% cases, of which Gram negative cocci [Gonococci] were more prevalent than Gram positive cocci [Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species; 18%]. The incidence of Gram negative bacilli was 7% and that of the flagellates belonging to Trichomonas species was 13.5%. Diabetes mellitus and hypertension were present in 9.4% and 3.3% patients respectively which did not show any correlation with the microbial flora. The vaginal infection was identified in 71% women in their reproductive age with or without disease symptoms. It is recommended that all women should get a periodic checkdone for any asymptomatic infection

Breast self-examination practice and breast cancer risk perception among female university students in Ajman, UAE

The present study assessed the prevalence of Breast Self-Examination [BSE] practice among female university students and identified the most important reasons for not performing BSE and also assessed their breast cancer risk perception. A cross-sectional study was conducted among female students in three universities in Ajman namely, Gulf Medical University [Ul], offering health related programs, Ajman University of Science and Technology [U2] offering mostly science and technology programs, and Preston University Ajman [U3] offering science programs. A stratified random sampling procedure was adopted in recruiting the participants. Validated, pilot-tested, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data related to socio-demography, information whether they practiced BSE, the frequency of BSE, timing of BSE in relation to menstruation, and if they were using any measure to remind themselves about the timing, factors that discouraged them doing BSE, whether they considered themselves to be at-risk of having breast cancer or not, how much the risk they attributed to. Data were entered in to Excel sheets and analyzed using PASW 19. The x2 test was used for testing the association. The results shows that the majority of the participants were between 18-22 years of age [63.5%], from Eastern Mediterranean countries [72.2%], and unmarried [82%]. The family history of breast cancer was positive for 9.2% and was more common among second degree relatives [63.9%]. None of the students had a personal history of breast cancer. 89 [22.7%] reported 'ever practiced BSE', only 3.3% were practicing monthly, while 77.3% admitted that they were not practicing BSE. No significant association was noticed between family history of breast cancer and the practice of breast self-examination [P<0.9].No significant associations were noticed between BSE Practice and age, nationality, and university. Married female students had significantly higher frequency of BSE practice. With regard to the risk perception about breast cancer, [25%] thought that they were at risk. Higher frequency of BSE practice was seen among participants who perceived themselves to be at risk of breast cancer, but the difference was not significant. The study showed that the proportion of female university students who ever practiced or practiced BSE monthly was low. The most frequent discouraging factors for BSE were lack of knowledge on how to do BSE and the absence of advice of a doctor to do BSE. About one third of the respondents perceived themselves to be at risk for breast cancer and in about half of those the perceived risk was low

Reasons for complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus observed in United Arab Emirates: An opinion survey among practicing physicians

Objective: The present study explored factors responsible for complications of diabetes mellitus as observed in the clinical practice of doctors

Materials and Methods: One hundred and seven practicing physicians and general practitioners from clinics and hospitals, identified using a snowballing technique starting with one physician in each emirate, participated in the cross sectional survey

Results: The majority [81%] was males, and 62% were from clinics and 48% from hospitals; more than 50% had over 5 years of clinical experience in the UAE. Fifty eight percent of those practicing in clinics and 80.6% in hospitals felt they had the facilities required for monitoring DM and complications. While 22.4% felt that the complications were due to poor glycemic control, 11.2% attributed it to sedentary life-style, 10% to smoking, 9.3% each to diet and co-morbidity, and 4.7% to obesity. Poor glycemic control was considered to be mainly due to low compliance [25.2%], life-style [18.7%], lack of awareness [14%] about the silent disease and its complications, finance [5.6%] and depression [0.9%] Of the 46 who responded, 57% felt the complications were more common among Asians compared to other nationals. No age, gender or occupational difference was reported

Conclusion: One third of the respondents attributed the complications to poor glycemic control mainly due to low compliance and lack of awareness and hence mostly preventable. Health service needs to organize nationwide campaigns emphasizing diabetic care. Financial and social support are likely to enhance compliance among the victims of this fast increasing slow epidemic

Micro-biota of vaginal infection among women in the reproductive age group: a hospital-based study

Objective: To study the prevalence of micro-organisms causing vaginal infection in women of child bearing age attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Department

Materials and Methods: This study was done with 479 patients in the age group of 15-45 years attending the Obstetrics and Gynecology OPD of Gulf Medical College Hospital, Ajman with various gynecological complains between January 2010 to December 2011. Socio-demographic details along with their reproductive history were recorded from the medical records. Vaginal swabs were taken from the patients irrespective of their marital status and sent for smear examination and culture identification. The presence of concomitant diseases in these patients was also recorded

Results: Out of 479 patients studied, 50% were Asians followed by Middle East and African patients [47%] and Caucasians [3%]. Ninety percent of the patients were in the age group of 20-40 years. Eighty three percent were married and had children and the rest did not have any children. The majority of the women complained of vaginal discharge [83%], pruritus vulvae [45%], dysuria [18%], abdominal pain [16%] and vulvo vaginitis [5%]

Microbiology reports revealed normal flora in 29% of the specimens collected

The most common organism found was Candida species [51%] among the specimens. Bacterial infection was found in 36% cases, of which Gram negative cocci [Gonococci] were more prevalent than Gram positive cocci [Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species; 18%]

The incidence of Gram negative bacilli was 7% and that of the flagellates belonging to Trichomonas species was 13.5%

Diabetes mellitus and hypertension were present in 9.4% and 3.3% patients respectively which did not show any correlation with the microbial flora

Conclusion: The vaginal infection was identified in 71% women in their reproductive age with or without disease symptoms. It is recommended that all women should get a periodic check done for any asymptomatic infection

Breast self-examination practice and breast cancer risk perception among female university students in Ajman, UAE

Objectives: The present study assessed the prevalence of Breast Self-Examination [BSE] practice among female university students and identified the most important reasons for not performing BSE and also assessed their breast cancer risk perception

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among female students in three universities in Ajman namely, Gulf Medical University [Ul], offering health related programs, Ajman University of Science and Technology [U2] offering mostly science and technology programs, and Preston University Ajman [U3] offering science programs. A stratified random sampling procedure was adopted in recruiting the participants. Validated, pilot-tested, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data related to socio-demography, information whether they practiced BSE, the frequency of BSE, timing of BSE in relation to menstruation, and if they were using any measure to remind themselves about the timing, factors that discouraged them doing BSE, whether they considered themselves to be at-risk of having breast cancer or not, how much the risk they attributed to. Data were entered in to Excel sheets and analyzed using PASW 19. The x2 test was used for testing the association

Results: The results shows that the majority of the participants were between 18-22 years of age [63.5%], from Eastern Mediterranean countries [72.2%] and unmarried [82%]. The family history of breast cancer was positive for 9.2% and was more common among second degree relatives [63.9%]. None of the students had a personal history of breast cancer. 89 [22.7%] reported 'ever practiced BSE', only 3.3% were practicing monthly, while 77.3% admitted that they were not practicing BSE. No significant association was noticed between family history of breast cancer and the practice of breast self-examination [P<0.9].No significant associations were noticed between BSE Practice and age, nationality, and university. Married female students had significantly higher frequency of BSE practice. With regard to the risk perception about breast cancer, [25%] thought that they were at risk. Higher frequency of BSE practice was seen among participants who perceived themselves to be at risk of breast cancer, but the difference was not significant

Conclusion: The study showed that the proportion of female university students who ever practiced or practiced BSE monthly was low. The most frequent discouraging factors for BSE were lack of knowledge on how to do BSE and the absence of advice of a doctor to do BSE. About one third of the respondents perceived themselves to be at risk for breast cancer and in about half of those the perceived risk was low

Pattern of urinary albumin excretion in non-diabetic first-degree relatives of type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients

To determine the pattern of urinary albumin excretion among non-diabetic first-degree relatives of patients with Type 2 DM residing in United Arab Emirates and to relate it to the socio-demographic profile and family history of chronic diseases. non-diabetic first-degree relatives of patients with Type 2 DM attending the Gulf Medical College Hospital [GMCH] or employed in the GMU/ GMCH were invited to participate in the study. None of the participants had any known renal disorder. Data was collected using a pilot-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Albumin/Creatinine ratio [ACR] was measured in urine. Data was analyzed using PASW 19.0 software. Among the 231 participatns, 66.3% were male. 53.7% of the participants were in the 26-35 year age group. Forty [17.3%] had ACR higher than 10mg/g, of whom 10 had > 30mg/g. ACR was >15mg/ g in 9.9% of males and 18% of females. An increasing trend was seen with age. The percentage of participants having ACR 15-30 mg/ g was 6.2, 8.1, 11.4, 27.3 in 10 mg/g, two reported a family history of kidney disorder, three stroke and seven CVD. Among the non-diabetic first-degree relatives of Type 2 DM patients, urinary albumin excretion level was higher among females and in the older age group

Breast cancer awareness among female university students in Ajman, UAE

Knowledge of female university students regarding breast cancer and its preventive measures and the main misconceptions regarding breast cancer were assessed. This cross-sectional study was conducted among female university students in three large Universities in Ajman, namely Gulf Medical University [referred to as U1], offering health related programs; Ajman University of Science and Technology [referred to as U2] offering mostly science and technology programs; and Preston University Ajman [referred to as U3] offering science programs. A validated, pilot-tested self administered questionnaire was used as a tool for data collection. A score less than 60% was considered as inadequate knowledge. Data were entered in to Excel sheets and analyzed using PASW 19. The tests used were Independent Samples Kruskal-Wallis test and chi-square 2 test. Family history of breast cancer was reported by 9.2% [36] of the participants, which had affected mostly second degree relatives [63.9%]. None of the students had a personal history of breast cancer. The most widely known risk factors for breast cancer were previous cancerous growth in the breast [72.4%], family history of breast cancer [70.2%], radiation to chest [67.9%] and smoking cigarettes [65.3%]. The most frequent correct response about the warning signs of breast cancer [61%], was "Painless breast lump", next was "change in the size or shape of the breast" [60.2%. Among the participants, 53.8% had heard about Breast Self-Examination and 44.1% Clinical Breast Examination. Significantly higher knowledge scores regarding risk factors for breast cancer are noticed among participants from countries in the Americas, from universities offering only medical/ health related programs, and those having family history subgroups respectively. the most frequent misconceptions are "Treatment for breast cancer affects woman's feminity", "Herbal remedies and dietary supplements can treat breast cancer' and "There is little that I can do to prevent cancer" reported by 62.5%, 56.4% and 49.7% respectively. Inadequate knowledge [scores <60%] regarding breast cancer among a high proportion of female university students and on knowledge about the risk factors, warning signs and methods for early detection of breast cancer was observed. Most frequent misconception reported was "Treatment for breast cancer affects woman's feminity". Educational campaigns are necessary to fill the gap in knowledge

UAE parental perspective on vaccinating their adolescent girls against human papillomavirus

To evaluate knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, acceptability and interest level of UAE parents of adolescent girls with regards to HPV vaccines and cervical cancer. A cross sectional survey was conducted using 30 item self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire was validated using the Delphi technique. Parents of adolescent girls were the target population. The schools in cities of Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain and Sharjah were randomly selected through Yellow Page telephone directory and the questionnaires were distributed to the parents of girls studying in grades 6 and 7. Each school was provided with 50 questionnaires to be distributed randomly amongst girl students. 28% of participants are Emarati nationals and 40% from other Arabic speaking countries. Paternal mean age is [43.0 +/- 9.7] and maternal mean age is [37.0 +/- 8.9]. Most of the parents have already heard about HPV vaccine [80%] although 88% of them would like to know more about HPV vaccine. 88% of them would like to know more about HPV vaccine. 89% of the participants want for their daughters to receive HPV vaccine and 48% of them think that recommendation by Ministry of Health is the most important factor for their acceptance of HPV vaccine. The most important concern was identified to be the 'duration at which vaccine give protection against cervical cancer'. Majority of the parents believe that vaccine would not increase risky sexual behaviors [57%]. 50% of the parents recommend the age of 10-15 years as the appropriate age for HPV vaccination. HPV vaccine is a recently introduced vaccine in UAE, majority of parents have already heard about HPV vaccine but would like to know more about it. Parents think that recommendation by Ministry of Health is the most important factor for their acceptance of HPV vaccination. Majority do not think that HPV vaccination would increase risky sexual behaviors. Overall parents are interested and have positive attitudes towards HPV vaccination

Extrinsic component of resilience among the entry level medical students

The present study assesses the extrinsic component of resilience and its association with age and gender among the entry level students of the integrated MBBS program. The present study was conducted on the entry level students of the MBBS program in College of Medicine, GMU, using a self-administered questionnaire comprising two parts. The first part contained questions pertaining to socio-demographic details while the second part contained questions on the intrinsic and extrinsic components of resilience of the students. Data was analyzed using SPSS 19. Among the 58 students who participated, 24 [41.4%] were males and 34 [58.6%] females, and 70.7% were <20 years and 29.3% >/= 20years. Fourteen questions related to extrinsic factors were rated on a 5-point Likert scale. 91.7% male students and 88.2% of female students strongly agreed/ agreed with the statement "My family accepts me the way I am". 97.1% of female students and 91.7% male students strongly agreed with the statement on receiving high levels of love and support from their family. All females and 95.8% male students strongly agreed/ agreed, "My parent[s] or guardian[s] help me succeed in school." The majority of male students' [91.7%] and 73.5% female students strongly agreed about active participation in the class. No difference was observed with regard to the different resilience factors and socio-demographic factors like age and gender

Knowledge regarding risk factors of hypertension among entry year students of a medical university

Hypertension in youth is increasing, but there is a dearth of data about the knowledge of risk factors in this age group. To assess the knowledge of risk factors of hypertension among university students and associate it with the blood pressure, physical activity, family history of cardiovascular disease [CVD], and sociodemographic variables. A cross-sectional survey among students enrolled in the first year, in the four academic programs, with the use of a validated, self-administered questionnaire on physical activity in the past 30 days and knowledge of risk factors of hypertension. A score of 6 on 11 was considered as good knowledge for modifiable risk factors. Blood pressure was also measured. The data was analyzed using PASW-17, Chi square test, and binary logistic regression analysis was done. Of the 110 participants, 69.2% were < 20 years of age, 76.4% were females, and 40% were Arabs. Stress, high cholesterol, obesity, and smoking were identified as risk factors by 75.5, 73.6, 77.6, and 71.8%, respectively; 69.1% considered high salt intake and 62.7% considered high calorie diet as risk factors. Energy drink was considered as a risk factor by 64.5%, coffee consumption 35.5%, physical inactivity 47%, and oral contraceptives 13.6%. Half the group did not consider a family history of CVD as a risk factor, 60% did not consider older age as a risk factor, and 88% did not think male gender was a risk factor. Knowledge of modifiable risk factors was better than that of non-modifiable risk factors. Although nationality, course of study, raised blood pressure, and history of diabetes showed significant association with good knowledge, their net effect was not significant by the Adjusted Odd's Ratio. The study identified some gaps in knowledge regarding both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors of hypertension among students. A larger study would enable health promotion activities tailored to the needs of this age group

Academic and career factors in the choice of post-secondary education program of medicine, engineering or business administration

To identify the academic and career-related factors significant in the choice of a career in medicine, engineering or business at the post-secondary level. The study was a cross sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire with the study variables, academic factors: academic performance, cost of program, duration of program, location of academy and transportation to academy and career factors: job opportunity, security, salary, social respect, working conditions, and work stress. A total of 403 students enrolled in the post-secondary education programs of medicine [135], engineering or business [134 each], at two universities in Ajman participated in the study. The questionnaire asked the participants about the influences in their choice into their respective program. Data were analyzed with predictive analytic software version 18.0. Frequencies, percentages, Chi-square test for association and logistic regression were used for drawing inferences. Around 30% of business students were older than 22 years, and 15% among engineering and medicine students. Business students had 77% females and the others 66%. The academic factors found significant in choosing medicine were academic performance and location of institute, for business the location of institute and for engineering none. Majority of business students perceived career-related factors as most influential: job opportunity [70%], security [51%], salary [55%] and social respect [55%]. The response rate was similar for engineering, but to a lower extent [54%, 40%, 41%, and 49%]. Social respect and job security topped for medicine [45%] along with academic performance [40%]. The factors that influenced business students, identified by adjusted odds ratio, were academic performance, the location of institution and the availability of opportunities. The academic factors found to be significant in this study can be used to assist in career programs in providing guidance to choose a career

Media influence on the perception of body image among students in UAE

This study intended to determine the degree of influence of the media in comparison to other factors on the perception of body image of students in the UAE. This cross-sectional survey collected data from 372 school and college students residing in UAE [129 males, 243 females] using a self-administered questionnaire. The data collected included socio-demographic characteristics, BMI, social factors, and influence of different media on perceived body image. Data was entered on Excel and analyzed on PASW 18.0 version using frequencies, percentages, chi-square. It was noted that 28% of the sample found media to be the most influential factor on perception of appearance, of which internet was found to be the most influential medium [47.3% males and 42% females] on the perception of body image, followed by television [31% males and 37% females]. Media were not as important as "attitude of family" [37.4%], "attitude of the opposite sex" [36.9%] or "attitude of friends/ peers" [34.7% which ranked highest among the most influencing factors. Media were considered moderately influencing [37.4%], with the other factor having almost equal importance. Media had effect only on the emotional and cognitive aspects. It was found that no single factor among the tested influential factors had a great impact on the body image of the youth of UAE, though there were several moderately influencing factors of almost equal importance. The overweight participants considered media to have "strong influence" [p<0.06] which was not statistically significant. similar to Western studies media have effect on the emotional and cognitive aspects of body image but the findings were different in that the media were not the single most important factor in influencing body image. The internet is the most influential medium for both males and females which may be used for any change in this regard

Intrauterine contraceptive use in women attending a tertiary level health care center in the UAE

To evaluate the awareness of Intrauterine Contraceptive Devices [IUD] among women, estimate the frequency of IUD use and identify the common symptomologies associated with the use of IUDs. A cross section survey was conducted in the OPD of OBG Department in Gulf Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, UAE, on 111 women aged 18-50 years who used any form of contraception. Data were collected using a 21 item pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed on PASW 19. Of the 111 participants, 58.6% were in the 18-29 years age group, with 36.9% Arabs and 63.1% Non-Arabs; 80.2% of them were married. Approximately 72% were aware of intra uterine devices. Oral contraceptive pills [54%] were used more often than IUDs [39.6%]. When asked specifically about IUDs, non-Arabs [62%] used IUDs more than Arabs, 45% used it because it was easier, 25% felt it was safer. For those who were aware of IUDs physicians [57%] were the main source of information. Among the users of IUD, around 52% used Copper T, 37% used Progestasert, and 10% used other IUDs [mainly Mirena]. The majority of IUD users complained of high fever and irregular bleeding [32.9% of cases each], followed by lower abdominal pain and pain with coitus [26%], and 20% vaginal discharge. Failure of IUDs was reported in 7 women [15.9%], three had normal delivery and two each had miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. We could not establish a relation between types of IUDs and changes in menstrual pattern. Even with the wide availability of mass media and the internet 28% of the women were not aware of IUDs. Despite being a safe method most did not use this method of contraception. Efforts must be made to educate women about the different choices they have for contraception with their indications and contraindications

Effect of caffeine use on blood pressure among doctors

There have been numerous past researches done caffeine use but none of them has been done among doctors on caffeine use and blood pressure. Our aim is to assess whether there is an association between caffeine use and blood pressure among doctors. To compare the blood pressure levels and BMI in doctors who are users or non-users of coffee and other caffeine products. 100 doctors from Gulf Medical University, Gulf Medical College Hospital and Research Center and Umm Al Quwain Hospital participated in the study. Data were collected using a 28 item self-administered questionnaire, and analyzed on PASW-18. Chi square test was done for association and P value of <0.05 was considered significant. The majority of the participants [43%] were in the age group of 38-47 years. 58% were males with 51% Arabs. Coffee consumption was highly prevalent among doctors, with 86% consuming at least on cup per day. 41% drank less than two cups per day while the rest [59%] two cups or more per day. The mean BMI was 25.3 for those who drank less than 2 cups and 27.0 in those who had more than 2 cups; The mean systolic blood pressure [SBP] and the mean diastolic blood pressure [DBP] were 123.71 and 79.1 in the former group and 123.0 and 79.7 in the latter group. The amount of coffee consumed per day did not have any significant effect on the body mass index and blood pressure level of the subjects. The results of this study cannot be generalized as both the predictor and outcome variable was self reported. A larger study should be conducted, with a more objective way of measuring the variables to determine the relation of caffeine on blood pressure