Saudi Med J
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Beta-thalassemia is a genetic disorder that is caused by variations in the beta-hemoglobin (HBB) gene. Saudi Arabia is among the countries most affected bybeta-thalassemia, and this is particularly problematic in the Eastern regions. This review article is an attempt to compile all the reported mutations to facilitate further national-level studies to prepare a Saudi repository of HBB gene variations. ⋯ The coinheritance of HBB gene variations with ATRX, HBA1, HBA2, HBA12, AHSP, and KLF1 gene variations were observed to be common in the Saudi population. National surveys on the molecular nature of hemoglobinopathies should be set up through collaborations between research centers from various regions to create a well-documented molecular data bank. This data bank can be used to develop a premarital screening program and lead to the best treatment and prevention strategies for beta-thalassemia.
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Brucellosis remains the most common bacterial zoonotic infection in many countries worldwide. Despite being long recognized and controllable, the disease still causes substantial morbidity, affecting especially the young population. The aim of this review is to provide insight to the epidemiology, etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of childhood brucellosis.
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To assess vaccination timeliness, risk factors associated with delays and the reasons for delayed vaccinations among children below the age of 3 years in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. ⋯ Adherence to vaccination is fairly common in this part of the country. However, vaccination delays are still present and should be addressed to improve health care.
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Observational Study
Prevalence and determinants of physical activity in a mixed sample of psychiatric patients in Saudi Arabia.
To estimate prevalence of physical activity and its associations with various psychiatric disorders and the use of psychotropic medications. ⋯ We report a variable but generally low prevalence of physical activity among a large, mixed sample of psychiatric patients in Saudi Arabia. These findings may highlight the importance of assessing physical activity status of psychiatric patients and the critical need for physical activity promotion programs among this group of disadvantaged patients.
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To explore the perception and attitudes of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses towards oral care practice for mechanically ventilated (MV) patients. ⋯ The poor perception and attitudes of ICU nurses regarding oral care for MV patients require the urgent attention of clinical administrators. In-hospital training regarding oral care protocol could improve nurses' perception and attitudes.