RESUMO
Purpose: This study aims to measure quality of life and the presence of depression among adults suffering from perceived hair loss. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design that targeted adult subjects with perceived hair loss in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected during interviews in selected primary healthcare centers. Data pertaining to the demography, quality of life, and presence of depression in participants were collected. Quality of life was assessed via a modified Arabic version of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). The presence of depression was assessed via Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). A chi-squared test was used to detect statistically significant differences between the levels of quality of life and depression and the measured demographic characteristics. Results: A total of 483 subjects reported having hair loss. The median age of the sample was 30 years. The majority of the respondents were female (74.5%) and had university-level education (71.4%). Only 169 (35%) reported seeking medical advice concerning their hair loss. The effect of hair loss on quality of life score varied between 2 and 29, with a median score of 6. The median depression level was 6, and the level varied between 0 and 27. Gender, education level, seeking medical care due to hair loss, and worsening of hair loss seem to have an impact on quality of life and depression levels (p values < 0.05). Conclusion: Nearly half of the sample experienced a more than moderate impact on their quality of life induced by their perceived hair loss. Additionally, more than half of the sample exhibited moderate or stronger levels of depression. Encouraging subjects with perceived hair loss to seek medical advice concerning their hair loss may result in early identification, appropriate diagnosis, and the use of curative measures, may consequently improving patients' quality of life and preventing depression.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection that affects teens and adults in their early 20 s. Screening and HPV vaccination are important preventive measures to reduce cases of HPV and associated complications. Studies about HPV knowledge and vaccine acceptability are scarce in Saudi Arabia. This study evaluated participants' knowledge, attitude, and acceptability concerning HPV and the HPV vaccine in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested survey that assessed knowledge and attitude toward HPV and the HPV vaccine among the population of Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. Responses were collected from adults between January and March 2022. Data were analyzed using a t-test and chi-square test. RESULTS: We included 569 in the study. Most participants were single (65%), females (83%), with a university-level of education (78%). The recorded knowledge score for all participants was 1.99 (out of 10). About half of the participants denied that HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection. Further, 53% were interested in the HPV vaccine, and 63% of participants acknowledged that the HPV vaccine could prevent warts and cervical cancer. About 30% of the participants opposed the vaccine due to religious reasons. CONCLUSION: The results of our study highlight the inadequate level of knowledge concerning HPV infection, even among highly educated people. Thus, by promoting the HPV vaccine acceptance and use, awareness can be raised in our community to assure better knowledge and achieve higher protection from this virus and its complications.
