ABSTRACT
Introduction Topical corticosteroids are a valuable tool for treating many dermatoses, offering anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, preexisting knowledge gaps and safety concerns may hinder treatment compliance. This study aims to evaluate knowledge and attitudes towards topical corticosteroids among former users within the general population of Saudi Arabia. Methods This cross-sectional study utilized an online survey to collect data. Knowledge was assessed through three dimensions: indications, proper use, and adverse reactions. Attitudes were assessed using the Topical Corticosteroid Phobia (TOPICOP) scale. Results Among the 397 respondents, 80.9% were females, 51.1% had suffered from a dermatological disease, and 76.3% had a bachelor's or higher educational level. When assessing knowledge, female participants (6.22±2.02) displayed significantly higher scores compared to male participants (5.26 ± 2.23) (p<0.001). Participants with dermatological diseases provided more accurate answers compared to those without. In assessing phobia towards topical corticosteroids, participants aged 18-25 years had lower topical corticosteroid phobia scores (31.06 ± 5.91), whereas those aged 56 years or more had higher scores (35.38 ± 6.04), p<0.001. Single participants had significantly lower topical corticosteroid phobia scores (32.27 ± 6.06) compared to those who were married (33.87 ±5.95) (p=0.010). Additionally, participants with dermatological diseases had higher scores in the behaviors subcategory despite having lower Global TOPICOP scores (32.58 ± 5.7) (p=0.033). Conclusion Enhancing knowledge about topical corticosteroids is crucial for mitigating corticophobia and promoting better adherence. To address gaps in knowledge, dermatologists should expand educational initiatives to include vulnerable populations, explicitly targeting males and older individuals.
ABSTRACT
Congenital heart diseases (CHD) are suggested to be associated with advanced maternal age in different ethnicities and geographical locations. To provide a profound ground for comparison with Saudi Arabian population, in this study, we have assessed the association between maternal age and congenital heart diseases for different age groups during the period from 2016 to 2018 in King Abdul-Aziz Medical City in Jeddah. In this case-control study, we found no evidence relating maternal age to the incidence of CHD. However, an association between maternal age and the type of CHD was found. Mothers who are 35 years old or younger are more likely to have a baby with atrial septal defects, while babies of mothers who are older than 35 presented mostly with ventricular septal defects and patent ductus arteriosus. Therefore, no modification to the local clinical practice, including a referral of patients for fetal echocardiography based on maternal age, is recommended.
