RESUMO
Background Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which primarily affects the meninges, with a high incidence in young children. The most effective technique for preventing IMD is vaccination, which has been available for over 40 years through meningococcal polysaccharide capsule-containing vaccines. This study aims to assess the parental knowledge of meningococcal disease and vaccination in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 2023 among 597 parents in the Makkah region using a validated online survey. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results The study sample included 597 parents, of which 339 (56.8%) were female and 258 (43.2%) were male. Our research demonstrated that 388 (65%) participants had an insufficient understanding of IMD, while 209 (35%) had a sufficient understanding. There was a significant correlation between the knowledge score and the completion of the routine vaccination and whether vaccinating a child is essential for the protection of other members of society. Conclusions Based on our study, only around one-third of the participants demonstrated a sufficient level of knowledge regarding IMD and its vaccination. To provide a more accurate assessment of the Saudi population, additional research should be conducted in various regions and cities.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Cosmetic procedures are surgical and non-surgical procedures that improve and reshape body or facial structures to improve someone's appearance, self-esteem, and confidence. In recent years, these procedures have gained more popularity, and both the number of procedures performed and the cosmetic procedure market are growing dramatically worldwide. The objective of our research is to carry out a cross-sectional investigation to assess the factors that affect the likelihood of undergoing cosmetic surgery in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: In this study, a descriptive, cross-sectional methodology was employed. The intended sample includes residents of Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and Al-taif cities who are 18 years of age or older, representing the general population. Data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire created using Google Forms, which was disseminated electronically via social media platforms. The questionnaire gathered demographic information and questions that evaluate the time spent on social media, likelihood of having cosmetic surgery, cosmetic surgery experience, social media exposure, personal experience, and self-rating of attractiveness. RESULTS: The study included a total of 507 participants, with 389 (76.7%) being female and 118 (23.3%) being male. In our sample, there was a significant correlation between the likelihood of undergoing cosmetic surgery in women who have a longer exposure to media and lower self-rating of attractiveness. For men, media exposure and previous cosmetic procedures were significantly affecting their likelihood of undergoing cosmetic procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Females who had a lower self-rating of attractiveness and a longer exposure to social media were more likely to undergo a cosmetic procedure. However, to gain a more comprehensive understanding, further research should be conducted.
