Saudi Med J
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Smoking is a global health challenge that causes a myriad of diseases. Smoking cessation services are part of the armamentarium to combat smoking epidemic. In addition to the approved treatments, alternative therapies, including electrical stimulation, have been proposed. ⋯ Systematic reviews and original studies were reviewed, and their results were summarized. In conclusion, the current best available evidence does not support the use of electrical stimulation, including Silver Spike Point therapy, in smoking cessation. Policy makers and healthcare providers should aim to utilize the available resources to provide evidence-based treatment options for patients seeking to quit tobacco use.
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To measure the prevalence of low self-esteem among medical students in Saudi Arabia and determine its impact on their behaviors and academic achievement. ⋯ One-quarter of medical students are assumed to have low self-esteem. Improved GPA ratings positively influence self-esteem, while attending students' study groups and self-development programs were identified as protective factors for low self-esteem. Further studies are needed to shed more light on this important topic.
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To develop a candidate vaccine aginst the Sphingobacterium spiritivorum. ⋯ The developed vaccine candidate is suitable for further testing and can assist experimental vaccinologists in developing an effective vaccine against S. spiritivorum.
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Multicenter Study
Prospective evaluation of lipid management following acute coronary syndrome in Saudi Arabia.
To evaluate LDL-C control in patients within 6 months after hospitalization for ACS in Saudi Arabia. ⋯ Levels and decrease of LDL-C from baseline achieved in this study are suboptimal, according to updated 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines. While statins were prescribed to all patients post-ACS, the recommended add-on treatments were largely overlooked. Gaps in dyslipidemia management linger, despite clear updated guidelines.
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To improve the local data and demographics of foreign body (FB) ingestion in the Makkah, Saudi Arabia and to provide basic statistics for future studies in the local community. ⋯ A large number of children presented with ingested FB, especially those younger than 4 years of age, whose clinical presentation varied from asymptomatic to severe complications, and urgent endoscopic intervention might have decreased serious complications. Further preventive measures are necessary within homes in addition to increasing caregivers' awareness of the different circumstances of FB ingestion and the time required for urgent admission.