Exploring quality of life, discrimination, and knowledge of parents of ADHD children in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in childhood. This study investigates the quality of life (QoL) of parents of children with ADHD, the discrimination they encounter, and their sources of information about the disorder. This cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire through Google Forms from March to April 2023. Study participants were recruited using a convenient sampling technique from patient records in 4 regions of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was sent through commonly used social media. QoL was assessed through the validated Arabic version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument, Short Form questionnaire. A total of 100 participants were recruited for this study. Most of the participants were from the southern region (80%, n = 80), 66.0% (n = 66) were mothers, 66.0% (n = 66) were married and 64% (n = 64) had a college degree. The mean scores of the physical, psychological, mental, environmental, total scales, and general QoL were (57.18 ±â€…13.67, 62.58 ±â€…17.49, 63.33 ±â€…23.12, 23.07 ±â€…12.87, 51.54 ±â€…14.34, 3.69 ±â€…1.06, respectively). Half of the population studied experienced discrimination with no significant differences between mothers and fathers (64% vs 68%, P = .833). The main source of information on ADHD was the Internet (49%) followed by schools (11%), and relatives (10%). Fifty-four percent of the participants have participated in workshops or seminars on neurodevelopmental disorders and 39.0% believed that schools and institutions are sufficiently equipped to support children with ADHD. ADHD had a profound impact on the QoL of parents, with a substantial portion facing discrimination due to their child condition. Additionally, parents showed a strong desire to acquire more information about ADHD, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding and support surrounding this condition.

Effects of diabetes mellitus complications on sleep quality among Saudi Arabian patients-A national study.

Introduction: In diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, obtaining a good night's sleep is crucial for maintaining body caloric intake, controlling insulin levels, and reducing the likelihood of engaging in unhealthy behavior. Patients with poor sleep quality may experience impaired glycemia, playing a significant role in the development of chronic complications. This study aims to explore the effects of DM complications on sleep quality among Saudi Arabian patients. Patient and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted among patients with diabetes. A self-administered, validated questionnaire translated into Arabic was distributed among diabetic patients using an online survey. The questionnaire includes sociodemographic characteristics (i.e. age, gender, marital status, etc.), the medical history of the patients, and a questionnaire about sleep quality. Results: Out of 4171 patients involved, 52.7% were females and 27.7% were aged between 40 and 60 years old. The prevalence of patients with perceived poor sleep quality was 24.1%. Significant predictors of poor sleep quality were the gender female, having social stressors, comorbid sleep disorders, associated comorbidities, increasing HbA1c levels, being overweight/obese, and diabetes complications. Furthermore, sleep disturbance, taking sleep medications, daytime sleepiness, and having bad dreams during sleep were also identified as prognostic factors for poor sleep quality. Conclusion: The subjective poor sleep quality of patients with diabetes was 24.1%. Poor sleep quality was significantly demonstrated by females who were having social stressors, comorbid sleep disorders, comorbidities, uncontrolled HbA1c levels, elevated BMI levels, and complications of diabetes. However, regular physical activity and adequate sleep were estimated to be the protective factors against poor sleep quality. Further research is needed to establish the effect of sleep quality among patients with DM.

Examining the Quality of Life and Discrimination Impact on Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia: A WHO-QOL Survey.

Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease marked by social and repetitive or restricted behaviors, as well as communication difficulty. Objectives This survey aimed to assess the quality of life (QoL) of parents with ASDs in the Aseer region of Saudi Arabia using the brief form of the World Health Organization (WHO-QOL) questionnaire. Furthermore, we sought to measure the severity of discrimination experienced by parents of children with ASDs and their impact on QoL. Methodology Using a Google form, a cross-sectional study was carried out online between March and April 2023. The patient records from four different regions of Saudi Arabia were used to recruit study participants. The survey was distributed through well-known social media channels (Instagram, Telegram, Facebook). Results A total of 99 parents were included in this study. The Southern region accounted for the bulk of participants (81.8%, n=81), nearly three-fourths of the children were boys (70.7%), mothers were more common among respondents (65.7%, n=65) than fathers, 66.7% of respondents reported being married, and 78.8% fall into the middle economic class category. The main source of information among the studied population was the Internet (39.4%, n=39), followed by relatives (23.0%, n=23), physicians (8.1%, n=9), and finally books (4%, n=4). The mean scores for the various domains are as follows: physical (58.48 ± 13.84), psychological (62.04 ± 18.08), social relations (61.20 ± 23.24), environment (24.12 ± 14.62), general QoL (72.93 ± 4.30), and general health (73.94 ± 4.63). Nearly half (46.5%) of parents have encountered stigma or discrimination toward their child or family. Individuals who reported experiencing discrimination exhibited significantly lower mean scores in multiple QoL domains than those who did not report discrimination for physical (54.11, ± 14.36vs, 62.26±12.28, p=0.003), psychological (55.80 ± 20.33 vs 67.45 ± 13.94, p=0.002), and social relations (55.43± 24.17 vs 66.20 ± 21.40, p=0.022). Multivariate analysis revealed that discrimination was the only significant predictor of QoL (p < 0.001). Conclusions The QoL of parents having a child with autism is low, moreover, the coincidence of discrimination and stigma significantly lowered QoL.

Cross-Sectional Assessment of Dermatologists' Knowledge and Attitude Towards Isotretinoin-Related Ocular Side Effects in Aseer, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit, which includes the hair follicle, hair shaft and sebaceous gland. The only treatment that has an effect on all the main aetiological causes of acne is isotretinoin. However, it may have a variety of negative side effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of dermatologists regarding ocular effects following isotretinoin prescribing in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. METHODOLOGY: An anonymous online cross-sectional survey was conducted in August 2022 to investigate dermatologists' knowledge and attitude regarding isotretinoin-related ocular side effects in Aseer, Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited using convenience and snowball sampling methods. RESULTS: A total of 48 dermatologists were included in this survey. The age distribution ranged from 25 to over 60 years. Sixteen (37.5%) were aged 31-40 years, 29 (60.4%) were male and 20 (41.7%) were specialists. All dermatologists reported that it can cause dry eye, 32 (66.7%) reported that it can cause contact lens intolerance, 10 (20.8%) reported that it can cause a decrease in dark adaptation and two (4.2%) thought that it can cause ectopia lentis and retinoblastoma. Regarding attitude, 43 (87.5%) thought that a course of isotretinoin is not recommended if the patient has recently undergone refractive surgery, 30 (62.5%) always inform patients about ocular side effects, 31 (72.9%) do not consider referring patients for ophthalmic examinations before initiating isotretinoin, 12 (25.0%) always prescribe lubricant eye drops, 15 (31.3%) always ask patients about recent refractive surgery, 17 (35.4%) always warn patients about avoiding refractive surgery during isotretinoin use and 19 (39.6%) always inform patients concerning discomfort with contact lenses. CONCLUSIONS: The survey reveals that dermatologists in Aseer, Saudi Arabia, generally have good knowledge of isotretinoin related to some ocular side effects, especially dry eye and contact lens intolerance. However, there is some variation in their practices with regard to patient education, referrals for ophthalmic examinations, the use of lubricant eye drops and refractive surgery during isotretinoin treatment. Thus, dermatologists should receive educational training on the safety profile of isotretinoin while managing acne vulgaris.

Systematic Review on the Efficacy, Effectiveness, Safety, and Immunogenicity of Monkeypox Vaccine.

BACKGROUND: The variation in the reported vaccine safety and effectiveness could contribute to the high rates of vaccine hesitancy among the general population and healthcare workers in areas where monkeypox (mpox) is circulating. In this review, our objective was to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, effectiveness, and efficacy of the mpox vaccines. METHODS: An extensive search for articles across multiple databases was performed, including searching six databases (PubMed Central, PubMed Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, ProQuest), two pre-print databases (European PMC Preprint and MedRxiv), and Google Scholar. RESULTS: A total of 4290 citations were retrieved from the included databases. Following the removal of duplicates and the initial screening of records, a total of 36 studies were included into the analysis. Additionally, we identified five more studies through manual searches, resulting in a total of 41 eligible articles for qualitative synthesis. The study findings revealed that mpox vaccines demonstrate the ability to generate adequate antibodies; however, their effectiveness may decrease over time, exhibiting varying safety profiles. Most of the included studies consistently reported substantial levels of effectiveness and efficacy against mpox. Interestingly, the number of vaccine doses administered was found to influence the degree of immunogenicity, subsequently impacting the overall effectiveness and efficacy of the vaccines. Furthermore, we found that smallpox vaccines exhibited a form of cross-protection against mpox. CONCLUSIONS: Vaccines can be used to prevent mpox and effectively control its spread.

Knowledge and Awareness of the Relationship Between Heart Failure and Chronic Uncontrolled Hypertension Among Communities in the Aseer Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: The primary objective of this study was to assess the awareness among respondents in Aseer, Saudi Arabia, regarding the link between uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) and the potential development of heart failure (HF). Furthermore, we examined variations in the knowledge of essential information based on whether participants had a history of HF or HTN. METHODS: Employing a snowball sampling method, we conducted a prospective online cross-sectional survey targeting adults aged 18 years and above, encompassing both males and females. The survey participants were residents of the Aseer region with access to the internet. RESULTS: A total of 418 responses were included in the final analysis; 26.8% were aged 45-55 years, 53.8% were males, 69.1% held a university degree, 17.5% were healthcare workers (HCWs), and 26.8% reported having HTN. There was a statistically significant difference between respondents with and without HF regarding knowledge about uncontrolled HTN and its definition. Television and the internet were the most prominent sources of information, with 31.8% and 35.6%, respectively. Of the responders, 50% knew that uncontrolled HTN can lead to HF. Gender differences were significant, with 51.20% of females and 48.80% of males recognizing this link (p = 0.039). HCWs showed higher awareness compared to non-HCWs (70.81% vs. 29.19%, p < 0.001). HF awareness significantly impacted the respondent's knowledge (80.38%, p < 0.001). Those knowledgeable about uncontrolled HTN were more likely to be aware of this connection (60.29% vs. 25.84%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A large sector of the general population did not know that uncontrolled HTN may cause HF, especially those free from both conditions.

A Retrospective Study of Ocular Cancer in Saudi Arabia: 25-Year Analysis.

Background: Ocular malignancies are uncommon among eye diseases; however, they jeopardize both vision and life. The main objective of this study was to use to describe the epidemiology of eye and ocular adnexa malignancies across different ages and sex. Methods: The King Khaled University institutional review board approved this study. Data on ocular cancer were retrieved from the Saudi Cancer Registry between 1994 and 2018. The registry collected important patient information such as demographic information (age, gender, and nationality), clinical details, and tumor classification. Results: The total number of cases with ocular cancer diagnosed was 1051 cases. The highest number was recorded in Riyadh (35.39%, n=372), followed by Makkah (16.93%, n=178). The incidence was higher in the 0-4 years' age group (55.21%), and it got down as people got older. The data also revealed differences in the number of reported cases over time, as well as in the representation of eye cancer cases by gender and nationality. While many ocular cancer pathologies were seen, with "Retinoblastoma, not otherwise specified" being the most common (53.32%), the incidence rates for males and females remained largely stable over time. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for continued monitoring, research, and analysis of potential of epidemiology of ocular cancer occurrence in Saudi Arabia. Identifying the geographical distribution and age pattern of Ocular malignancies have the potential to assist healthcare authorities and policymakers in developing precise strategies to reduce, recognize at an early stage, and successfully manage this condition.

A Sizeable Adrenal Ganglioneuroma: A Case Report.

Adrenal ganglioneuromas are mostly asymptomatic, although they may manifest with compressive local effects. We present a 27-year-old man with no medical history who was referred to the surgical oncology clinic due to the incidental finding of a left adrenal mass. The initial computed tomography (CT) abdomen revealed a large mass causing displacement of adjacent organs. A CT-guided biopsy was inconclusive, and further evaluation with an NM endo-adrenal (MIBG) medullary scan pointed to a possible diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. Laboratory tests showed normal levels of urinary metanephrine and normetanephrine. The patient's history revealed chronic abdominal pain, with no symptoms of hypertension, headache, palpitations, or sweating. Subsequently, the patient underwent a left adrenalectomy without complications. This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach in managing adrenal masses, particularly when dealing with non-specific symptoms, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Blood Parameter Profiles and Their Clinical Implications in Hypertensive Patients: A Retrospective Chart Review.

Introduction Hypertension (HTN) is a chronic condition that serves as a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, leading to increased mortality and morbidity. It is a frequent modifiable illness affecting global health, resulting in catastrophic fatalities and morbidity. Aim This study aims to investigate blood parameter profiles and their clinical implications in hypertensive patients at the Prince Faisal bin Khalid Cardiac Center in Abha, Saudi Arabia. Methods Utilizing retrospective data from 121 patients at the Prince Faisal bin Khalid Cardiac Center in Abha, Saudi Arabia. The hematological parameter examined were hemoglobin (HB), platelets, hematocrit (HCT), calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, urea, creatinine, and uric acid. The SPSS version 28 software was used for data analysis. Results Significant correlations between various hematological parameters were found in the results, pointing to potential connections between kidney function, the production of blood cells, and electrolyte balance in hypertensive patients. The results align with earlier studies carried out in the area and offer insightful information for clinicians and researchers interested in managing HTN and its complications. Conclusion The study emphasized the significance of considering hypertensive patients' age, gender, and lifestyle when interpreting their blood parameter profiles. The findings imply that a thorough comprehension of these blood parameter values and their potential effects on HTN is necessary for effectively managing HTN in this population. This study on the blood parameter profiles in hypertensive patients in Saudi Arabia provides the relationships between various hematological parameter and their clinical implications. These findings should be considered when creating targeted interventions and strategies to address the specific requirements and difficulties of managing HTN and its associated complications in this population. More research is required to comprehend the underlying reasons for the observed variations in hematological parameter profiles and their effects on the management of HTN.

Factors Related to Relapse of Congenital Talipes Equinovarus (CTEV) After the Ponseti Method.

BACKGROUND: Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) is one of the common congenital disorders in pediatric orthopedic practice that affects a large group of children.It is a combination of four parts of deformity that affect either a single foot or both feet. Our aim in this study is to estimate the prevalence and incidence of CTEV and to evaluate the risk factors that lead to relapse in some children to avoid relapse in future and complex surgical interventions, as well as to improve the final outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study for the cases of CTEV was conducted to estimate the prevalence of relapse in children with CTEV after management by the Ponseti method and to evaluate the risk factors that lead to recurrence. RESULT: The study includes 103 patients with CTEV, and only 22 patients had relapse. The prevalence rate of relapsed cases was 20.4%, and the incidence was 42 per thousand. The average number of casts applied was 4.05 ± 1.37. The average severity of the deformity that was measured by the Pirani score was 4.97 ± 1.21. The most common atypical presentation of CTEV was associated with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), followed by myelomeningocele (MMC). CONCLUSION: The only significant factors in the study were the Pirani score and non-compliance of the brace with p < 0.05. There was not any significance in the correction of the deformity by Ponseti between idiopathic and non-idiopathic CTEV based on the number of casts and the Pirani score. The dynamic foot brace can be the solution for the high recurrence rate, yet more studies are needed in the future.

The Epidemiological Pattern of Skin Cancer from 2011 to 2022 among the Population of the Aseer Region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The overall risk of developing cancer before the age of 75 years in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is 9.9%. We aimed to explore the pattern of skin cancer, specifically among the Saudi population residing in the Aseer region. We obtained data from the medical records of Aseer Central Hospital regional histopathological laboratory considering surgical pathology reports from 2011 to 2021. The 61-80-year-old age group represented most of the cases (41.4%), followed by the 41-60-year-old group at 24.1%. Men made up the majority of the cases (59.4%). Furthermore, the dataset predominantly consisted of Saudi nationals (94.3% of the sample). The percentage of cases diagnosed each year relative to the cumulative number of skin cancer cases varied each year, ranging from 1.6% in 2011 to 11.6% in 2017. The most common diagnoses were squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with 230 cases (41.1%) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) with 147 cases (26.3%). The majority of cases occurred in the head and neck region (55.4%), followed by the lower limb (16.6%), trunk (13.6%), upper limb (8.2%), and pelvis (2.3%). There was a significant variation in the type of skin cancer across the age groups (p < 0.001) and across different body parts (p < 0.001). The incidence of skin cancer exhibited variability throughout the study period. The predominant diagnoses observed were SSC and BCC. Among the affected areas, the head and neck region displayed the highest prevalence, followed by the lower limb, trunk, upper limb, and pelvis.

Examining Saudi Physicians' Approaches to Communicate Bad News and Bridging Generational Gaps.

Breaking bad news is an intrinsic aspect of physicians' clinical practices. This study aims to investigate how Saudi physicians manage the process of communicating bad news and explore potential differences in breaking bad news practices between young physicians (interns) and their older colleagues. From 1 March to 15 April 2023, ok an anonymous online cross-sectional survey was conducted to explore the communication practices of Saudi physicians concerning breaking bad news using the Communicating Bad News Questionnaire. The physicians were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling methods, and the survey questionnaire was distributed on various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and WhatsApp. Data were analyzed using R version 4.2.1. A total of 782 physicians were included in this study. Male physicians represented 50.9% of the participants. Three-quarters (74.7%) were aged 25-30 years. The largest proportion of physicians (45.3%) were interns, followed by junior residents (22.9%), senior residents (11.0%), and specialists (6.5%). The median years of experience was 1.0, ranging from 0 to 45 years. Regarding the place of work, most physicians (86.6%) worked in hospitals, while 13.4% worked in primary healthcare centers. A total of 14.8% said they were not comfortable with discussing patients'/relatives' issues (20.60 among interns vs. 10.50% among non-interns, χ2 = 27.50, p = 0.0001), 66.6% reported being trained to break bad news (59.60% among interns vs. 72.40% among non-interns, χ2 = 14.34, p = 0.001), 59.1% reported breaking bad news to the patient, 37.9% reported to the family, and 3.1% reported to both, with no significant difference between interns and non-interns. A substantial proportion of physicians reported feeling uncomfortable discussing sensitive issues with patients and their relatives despite having received training to deliver bad news and being willing to communicate bad news directly to patients. Notably, our analysis identified a significant disparity between intern and non-intern physicians, particularly in terms of their comfort level in addressing patient-related concerns and access to breaking bad news training.

Congenital Talipes Equinovarus Management and Outcomes: The Experiences of Pediatric Tertiary Centers in Abha, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), also known as clubfoot, describes a range of foot abnormalities usually present at birth (congenital) in which a baby's foot is twisted out of shape or position. In clubfoot, tendons are shorter than usual. Clubfoot is a fairly common birth defect and is usually an isolated problem for an otherwise healthy newborn. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the experiences of pediatric tertiary centers in Abha, Saudi Arabia, regarding the management, frequency, treatment options, and outcomes of CTEV. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients with clubfoot was conducted to evaluate the number of cases, treatment options, and outcomes at Abha Maternity and Children Hospital and Khamis Mushait Maternity and Children Hospital. Data were extracted independently using prestructured data extraction forms. The collected data included demographic and medical information, family history, clinico-epidemiological information, risk factors, management options, and complications of clubfoot. RESULTS: The study included 89 children with CTEV from the target hospitals. Their ages ranged from 20 days to six years, with a mean age of 10.5 ± 14.5 months. Of these, 57 (64%) were male. CTEV was unilateral in 53 (59.5%) cases and bilateral in 36 (40.5%) cases. The majority of the cases had isolated CTEV. Nearly all cases had Ponseti casting with a tendo-Achilles tenotomy (TAT) surgical procedure. Patient follow-up ranged from one week to three years, with an average follow-up of 3.1 months. Only three (3.4%) cases experienced recurrence of deformity after management. CONCLUSION: Ponseti casting with the tendo-Achilles tenotomy approach emerged as the most commonly employed management option, demonstrating a low rate of recurrence.

Child Anxiety, Depression, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Following Orthopedic Trauma.

BACKGROUND: Many children and adolescents are exposed to different types of trauma, e.g., abuse or various disasters. Trauma can cause severe and long-term impairment and consequences, the most studied of which are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and PTSD symptoms (PTSS). PTSD is highly prevalent in clinical practice (with a frequency of about 7%) and is a debilitating consequence of trauma. AIM: The current study aimed to assess childhood injuries and their associated anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder following orthopedic trauma. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, including all pediatric patients with trauma at Abha Maternity and Children Hospital in the Seer region of Saudi Arabia, as well as pediatric patients with trauma at Abha Maternity and Children Hospital during the period from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022. Data were collected from the children's caregivers using a direct interview questionnaire to assess the children's personal data, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Children's trauma-related data were extracted from their medical records using a pre-structured data extraction sheet. RESULTS: A total of 100 children with trauma were included. Children ranged in age from eight to 12 years, with a mean age of 7.3 ± 3.4 years. In all, 67 (67.0%) children were males, and only 6 (6.0%) had chronic health problems. The vast majority of the children with trauma had a low-severity experience of depression and anxiety following trauma (97.1% for each), and only one child had a high-severity experience of depression and anxiety. In all, 5 (4.9%) children with trauma experienced clinically significant PTSD, and the vast majority of them showed a low likelihood of the disorder. Multiple fractures and undergoing surgery were significant predictors of developing PTSD (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the current study revealed that bone trauma was frequent among children, mainly due to playing accidents. Also, a low prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorders and their mental consequences was estimated.

A Retrospective Cohort Study of the Association Between Calcium Serum Level and Hypertension in Older Adults.

INTRODUCTION:  One of the major global risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and death is hypertension. Earlier research has been conducted on the connection between calcium consumption and blood pressure. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the association between calcium serum levels and hypertension in older hypertensive adults. METHODS:  A retrospective cohort study of 121 of hypertension patients was conducted in Prince Faisal Bin Khalid Cardiac Center. The data of all patients were collected by records, including lab, pathology, and medical review, in order to determine the effects on patients, providers, and institutions. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Statistics version 26.0. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS:  The study included 121 adult hypertensive patients with a mean of age 60.29 ± 13.92. The majority of included patients were male (81%). More than one-third of patients were obese (39.7%), about one-third (33.9%) were overweight, and 26.4% of patients were in normal weight. The majority of patients had co-morbidities (68.3%); about one-half of them had diabetes mellitus (52.1%). The calcium level mean was 5.07 ± 1.26. The creatine kinase (CK) (initial day) mean ± SD was 813.22 ± 1146.37 became 221.4 ± 330.67 on the last day. The CK-myocardial band (CK-MB) (initial day) was 65.43 ± 118.9 and became 24.38 ± 23.26 on the last day. Additionally, the troponin (initial day) mean was 23.49 ± 104.26 and became 1.65 ± 2.66 on the last day. The most common discharge medications were anti-platelets (95%), beta-blockers (78.5%), statins (70.2%), and proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) (64.5%). The hospital stay days ranged from 1 to 20 days with a mean of 4.83 ± 3.38. The ICU stay days ranged from 1 to 15 days with a mean of 3.57 ± 2.72. Most of the patients (90.9%) improved. CONCLUSION: There is no significant correlation between calcium levels in hypertensive patients and the demographic characteristics of patients, home or current medications, ECHO findings, or procedures done. However, there is a significant correlation between the calcium level and CK level among patients with hypertension. Further investigations are required to verify the relationship between CK and calcium levels in hypertensive patients.

Epidemiology and Pattern of Orthopedic Trauma in Children and Adolescents: Implications for Injury Prevention.

BACKGROUND: Orthopedic injuries are prevalent in children and can result in hospitalization and damage. The number of accidental injuries among children increases every year, leading to a huge burden on communities and health institutions. AIM: This study aimed to assess the epidemiological pattern of orthopedic trauma among children and adolescents in Abha, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A retrospective record-based study was carried out to investigate the epidemiological pattern of orthopedic trauma among children and adolescents treated at Abha Maternity and Children Hospital in Saudi Arabia, a traumatic center for pediatric patients. The study covered all children and adolescents treated at the hospital for orthopedic trauma. The parents of the children and adolescents were called to get their consent to participate in the study. The following data were extracted from the medical files: personal information, medical history, trauma-related details, management, hospitalization, and complications. RESULTS: A total of 295 children and adolescents were included. The mean ± standard deviation age was 6.8 ± 3.1 years old (range 1 month to 13 years). Of the patients, 186 (63.1%) were male. The most reported causes of traumas were fall from height (48.1%) and injury while playing (19.7%). The most affected body parts included the forearm (22.4%), head (21.7%), thigh (20%), and leg (10.8%). The vast majority of the children and adolescents (87.1%) had no complications. CONCLUSION: The current study revealed that pediatric orthopedic injuries are not rare, and there is a higher likelihood of injuries among young male children. Fall from height and play-associated injuries are the most frequent causes.

Serum Magnesium in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction and Its Effect on Cardiac Complications and Mortality in Myocardial Infarction Patients.

Background Magnesium is an essential micronutrient for people and is crucial in maintaining healthy cardiac function. It functions as a cofactor in a number of the body's enzyme systems, and myocardial cells are one of its target tissues. The upkeep of the myocardium's normal functional integrity depends on a lot of things including magnesium ions. Magnesium plays an important role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disorders. Aim This study aims to estimate serum magnesium levels and their correlation with cardiac complications and mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods Patients with acute myocardial infarction who visited the Prince Faisal Bin Khalid Cardiac Center within 12 hours of the onset of symptoms were the subjects of this study. On the first and fifth days following admission, the level of serum magnesium was assessed. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 (IBM SPSS Statistics, Armonk, NY) was used to analyze the collected data. Results The current study comprised 160 patients with acute myocardial infarction; there were 84 (52.5%) who experienced a low level of serum magnesium on admission. Significantly higher proportions of patients who experienced low magnesium levels had diabetes mellitus (P=0.0072) and a history of diuretics (P=0.03) and were administrated beta-blockers (P=0.01), calcium channel blockers (P=0.04), and statins (P=0.007) after admission. Significantly higher proportions of patients with low serum magnesium experienced atrial fibrillation (P=0.03), angina (P=0.03), and cardiogenic shock (P=0.003). Conclusion Low magnesium levels are associated with poor outcomes in most patients admitted with acute myocardial infarction.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Schoolteachers Toward Epilepsy and Students With Epilepsy in the Aseer Region.

BACKGROUND: The knowledge that teachers have about epilepsy affects their attitudes and practices towards students with the disorder. This study aimed to explore teachers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward epilepsy in the Aseer region. METHODS: This online cross-sectional survey targeted teachers aged 18 years and above, encompassing both males and females residing in the Aseer region with internet access. Teachers included in this study were recruited using snowball and convenience non-random sampling methods. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square test in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 were employed, with a significance level of 0.05 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). RESULTS: A total of 62 teachers were included in this study: 62.90% were aged 35-49, 93.55% were females, 90.32% were married, 80.65% worked in the governmental sector, 51.61% earned between 5,000 and 10,000 SAR, and 93.55% held a university education. Regarding knowledge, 36.6% of the teachers studied had very bad knowledge, 29% had poor knowledge, 35.5% had intermediate knowledge, and 4.8% had good knowledge. While 1.9% had a detrimental attitude about epilepsy, 58.1% had an incorrect attitude, 30.6% had an approximate attitude, and 1.6% had a correct attitude. Concerning teacher practice, 4.8% of the studied sample had detrimental practice, 56.5% had inadequate practice, and 4.8% had average practice. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to improve teachers' knowledge about epilepsy. The positive attitudes observed provide a foundation for fostering inclusivity in educational settings. Strategies that address misconceptions and improve first aid preparedness can contribute to a more supportive environment for students with epilepsy.

Knowledge and Practices of Child Eye Healthcare Among Parents in Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: The majority of causes of childhood blindness are preventable and treatable. There are an estimated 1.4 million blind children worldwide, with roughly three-quarters of them living in developing countries. In most low-income countries, school-age children account for 20%-30% of the total population. AIM: To evaluate parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to pediatric eye medical services in Saudi Arabia's Aseer region. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional approach was used targeting all parents in the Aseer region. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the study investigators. The questionnaire included parents' sociodemographic data and a family history of blindness or visual disability. Parents' awareness regarding pediatric eye care was assessed using relevant items. The parents' practices and attitudes regarding eye care were also assessed within the questionnaire. RESULTS: The study included 899 parents who replied to the online questionnaire in its entirety. Some 54% of the responding parents were aged 30-50 years, and 51.2% were males. Of the parents, 46.2% had a university-level education, and 48.5% accompanied their children for eye examinations. About 65% of the parents knew about clinics for eye examinations, and 63.3% of them knew that blind children could learn. In total, more than one-third of the parents were aware of pediatric eye care. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The study found that parents were aware of pediatric eye health and sought eye care for their children. More effort should be put forth through planned awareness programs to educate parents and assist them in overcoming the fears and barriers that keep them from seeking eye care for their children.

Gastrointestinal Complications Associated With Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug Use Among Adults: A Retrospective, Single-Center Study.

Background Traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are recognized to injure the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) mucosa. For example, gastric mucosal hemorrhages can be caused by a single dose of 650 mg of aspirin. Nearly 30% to 50% of NSAID users showed endoscopic lesions including subepithelial hemorrhages, erosions, and ulcerations. These lesions are often asymptomatic and are mostly found in the gastric antrum. With the chronic exposure, the mucosa adapts to the aggression of the NSAIDs, whereby these lesions slowly lessen or fade. Aim The aim of this study is to detect the association between NSAIDs and gastrointestinal complications among the general population in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Methodology A record-based retrospective study was conducted targeting people with GIT complications who were 20 years old and above. We reviewed patients' records from the GIT clinic in the Aseer region of Saudi Arabia. We reviewed specifically patients who had GIT complications like gastritis, abdominal pain, GIT bleeding, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, peptic ulcer, and diarrhea. Then we contacted those patients individually to fill out a questionnaire. Participants less than 18 years, those who refused to complete the questionnaire, or any patients with no history of GIT complications were excluded. An online questionnaire was sent to the patients with GIT complications. The questionnaire included participant's personal data, NSAID use, and associated GIT complications. The questionnaire was uploaded online using social media platforms by the researchers and their relatives and friends during the period from March 2012 to May 2022. Results A total of 211 participants with GIT complications completed the study questionnaire. Participant ages ranged from 20-59 years with a mean age of 31.2 ± 12.9 years old. A total of 140 (66.4%) were males and 175 (82.9%) were from urban areas. A total of 156 (73.9%) were non-smokers. A total of 103 (48.8%) participants used NSAIDs. As for complications, the most reported were peptic ulcer (37.9%), GIT bleeding (5.8%), GIT erosions (4.9%), and intestinal obstruction (3.9%) while 59.2% had no complications. Conclusions The current study revealed that nearly one out of every two participants in the Aseer region mainly used NSAIDs as tablets for pain. Regarding high utilization rates, less than half of them developed GIT complications, mainly peptic ulcers.