ABSTRACT
Background The most frequent gynecologic cancer in women is cervical cancer. The majority of incidents take place in less developed nations without access to reliable screening tools. Human papillomavirus (HPV) exposure, smoking, and immune system dysfunction are risk factors. As a result of effective screening, its incidence and death have significantly decreased in many nations. Hence, this study aims to assess the level of knowledge and awareness among parents regarding HPV, including its associated health risks and the benefits of vaccination. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia from September to November 2023. The main tool used for gathering data was an online, self-administered survey via Google Forms. Collected data was analysed using SPSS v. 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), where all applicable statistical tests were used. Results Females exhibited higher levels of confidence and agreement with COVID-19 and HPV vaccination recommendations compared to males. A substantial percentage of males expressed strong disagreement and reduced confidence in HPV vaccination, contributing to the gender-based divergence. Individuals with higher education levels, such as university degree graduates, showed greater support for compulsory vaccines and a preference for natural immunity development in their children. Marital status played a role in vaccine-related decisions, with variations in vaccine refusal rates and difficulty discussing the HPV vaccine noted among individuals based on their marital status. Conclusion The study highlights the value of medical experts and specifically created training programs to close knowledge gaps and boost HPV vaccination rates. Demographic factors have an impact on attitudes, which highlights the need for targeted interventions.
ABSTRACT
Background Testicular torsion is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the spermatic cord, which carries blood to the testicles, twists, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the testicle. This can lead to tissue death and loss of the testis if not treated promptly. It is important to seek medical attention immediately when symptoms of testicular torsion arise, as prompt treatment can help prevent permanent damage to the testicle. This study aimed to explore the level of knowledge about testicular torsion among the general population in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample recruited from the general population who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The data were collected from participants using an electronic pre-structured questionnaire. The researchers developed the questionnaire through expert consultation and after an intensive literature review. The questionnaire was reviewed by a panel of three experts for validation and applicability. After a pilot study, the reliability coefficient (Cronbach's alpha) was 0.74. The data were analyzed using SSPS version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) and presented as percentages and frequencies. Chi-square and logistic regression were conducted. P-values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results A total of 732 participants were recruited, most of whom were male (486, 66.4%), with ages ranging between 18 and 30 years (452, 61.7%). Regarding testicular torsion knowledge, more than half of the participants had good knowledge (406, 55.5%) and knew about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of testicular torsion. There was a statistically significant relationship between age and knowledge (p < 0.001) and an insignificant relationship between sex and knowledge (p > 0.05). Conclusions The study participants were found to have good knowledge. Fortunately, most participants knew that testicular torsion is an emergency and they must immediately visit the hospital. With further awareness programs, the overall knowledge level can be improved.
ABSTRACT
Background While many cancer patients survive long after diagnosis, one is bound to experience long-term and latent side effects as a result of the treatment. This experience results in a poor quality of life, morbidity, and mortality for cancer survivors. Understanding how to manage these side-effects is quite important and a key to cancer survivorship. Objective Given the importance of this area, the main objective of this study seeks to understand the risk factor associated with cancer survivorship. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 154 cancer survivors from King Fahad General and Kind Abdul-Aziz hospitals. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing the responses. Descriptive statistics were used in understanding the extent of the risk factors while inferential statistics were used to understand the cross-relationships. Results This study included 154 cancer survivors aged 18 and above at King Fahad Hospital and King Abdul-Aziz Hospital in Jeddah, Makkah Region, KSA. Thirty-one (20.1%) of the sample were males and 123 (79.9%) were females. Of all the survivors who screened, 111 (72.9%) symptoms occur before treatment, 116 (75.3%) within the treatment, and 57 (37.09%) after treatment. The relationship between Socioeconomic Status Cross Symptoms categories demonstrated below includes accommodation type, education level, age, gender, and job. Conclusion The study concludes that post-cancer treatment symptoms are highly affected by other factors such as social-economic status as well as family support. As a result, the study recommends the establishment of educational materials on post-treatment symptoms, care-plans, and support groups for cancer survivors.
