RESUMO
Background: In Palestine, cervical cancer is the third most common gynaecological cancer, exhibiting higher mortality rates compared to regional counterparts. Late-stage diagnosis and limited awareness contribute to this disparity. This study aims to assess the awareness of Palestinian medical students regarding cervical cancer prevention. Methods: A questionnaire-based survey involving 532 medical students from various Palestinian universities was conducted between October 2023 and December 2023. The survey encompassed closed-ended quantitative and demographic questions distributed through social media. Results: The study was carried out on a group of 532 medical students (66.3% women and 33.6% men), (average age 21.7 years). Most students (77.7%) knew that the main risk factor for cervical cancer was human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Participants doing the internship had the greatest knowledge, whereas students from the first year had the poorest knowledge about the main risk factors for cancer of the cervix. Only about half, 50.2% of all students, knew that in Palestine, there is no screening program. 84.4% of students correctly indicated that the cervical cancer screening test is a pap smear test. 41.4% of respondents knew that microscopic evaluation of the exfoliated cells from the vaginal part of the cervix is the screening test for cervical cancer which is used. Only about half of the students (45.1%) knew that there were no specific early symptoms of cervical cancer. Conclusions: This study highlights the need for enhanced education, particularly regarding screening program awareness, among Palestinian medical students. Addressing these knowledge gaps is crucial for effective preventive strategies.
RESUMO
Cardiac tumors are a rare condition that typically presents with nonspecific symptoms. Among the histologic patterns, myxoid sarcomas are rarely identified and may have a less favorable prognosis. Reporting a case of this type of cardiac tumor can increase awareness about this condition and aid in early diagnosis, potentially leading to better outcomes. Case presentation: We are presenting a case of a 41-year-old female with left atrial myxoid sarcoma, which was presented with a cardiogenic shock picture. She underwent surgical excision of the mass and was discharged in good condition. After discharge, she deteriorated and was found to have lung metastases. Clinical discussion: Primary cardiac sarcomas, due to their rarity and poor prognosis, are often diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease and lack sufficient data to establish a standard course of treatment. The cornerstone of therapy is surgical resection. However, novel therapeutic approaches must be developed. Conclusions: Primary cardiac tumors should be suspected in adult patients with progressive dyspnea, and a biopsy should also be done to determine the histopathological pattern of the mass and estimate the overall prognosis and outcomes.
