Awareness of Urinary Stone Risk Factors Among the Adult Population of Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Urolithiasis, a common clinical condition, has seen a global increase in prevalence in recent years. Urinary stones are common in hot climate areas like Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and awareness of risk factors for urinary stones in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1000 Jazan adults between January and June 2022. A questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographics, urinary stone diagnosis, and awareness of risk factors. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of diagnosed urinary stones was 140 (14.0%). The prevalence was higher among patients who were older, married, had higher education, and were employees (all P<0.001). Participants who believed that hot weather (p = 0.012), sleeve gastrectomy (p = 0.049), and Saxenda injections (p = 0.000) increased the risk of stones had a higher prevalence. No association was found between stones and other sociodemographic factors or dietary habits. The main sources of knowledge were the internet (426, 42.6%) and education (155, 15.5%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of urinary stones in Jazan is considerable (14.0%). Certain sociodemographic factors and beliefs about risk factors were associated with higher prevalence. Improving public awareness about the prevention and risk factors for urinary stones is crucial to controlling this health problem in high-risk communities.

Overview of the Association Between the Pathophysiology, Types, and Management of Sickle Cell Disease and Stroke.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin and increases stroke risk, particularly in childhood. This review examines the pathophysiological association between SCD and stroke, the classification of stroke types, risk factors, diagnosis, management, prevention, and prognosis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted via PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases. Relevant studies on SCD and stroke pathophysiology, classification, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention were identified. Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped, obstructing blood vessels. Recurrent sickling alters cerebral blood flow and damages vessel walls, often leading to ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes (HS). These occur most frequently in childhood, with ischemic strokes (IS) being more common. Key risk factors include a prior transient ischemic attack (TIA), low hemoglobin, and a high leukocyte count. Neuroimaging is essential for diagnosis and determining stroke type. Primary prevention centers on blood transfusions and hydroxyurea for those at high risk. Acute treatment involves promptly restoring blood flow and managing complications. However, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding stroke mechanisms, optimizing screening protocols, and improving long-term outcomes. This review synthesizes current evidence on SCD and stroke to highlight opportunities for further research and standardizing care protocols across institutions. Ultimately, a holistic perspective is critical for mitigating the high risk of debilitating strokes in this vulnerable patient population.