Community Medicine Abstracts - College of Medicine and Health ...

Community Medicine Senior ClerkshipABSTRACTS OF RESEARCH PROJECTS1992 TO 2010

FOREWORDThe following are abstracts of Community Medicine Senior Clerkship Student ResearchProjects during the academic years 1992 to 2010.Over the years it has been the practice for senior clerkship students to spend a five-week(from 2005 4-week) rotation with the Department of Community Medicine, and as part oftheir training, they have been encouraged to carry out research into some aspects ofpreventive medicine, occupational medicine or public health.Wherever possible, the students have been encouraged to carry out research into a topic oftheir own choice or interest, with guidance and tuition of Community Medicine Faculty andsupported by technical staff.In acquiring, assessing and evaluating results, students have made use of epidemiologicaltechniques and of advanced forms of statistical analysis.Findings of scientific merit and significance have been achieved, and some projects have ledultimately to publications in scientific journals or presentation at scientific meetings.The studies are a testimony to the knowledge and industry of the student authors.Dr. Iain BlairSenior Clerkship Coordinator, Dept. of Community MedicineMay 2010

Project No. 1 (1992)A Cross-Sectional Survey on the Factors Influencing Breast-Feeding PracticesAmong Al-Ain National MothersStudent Authors: Fatima Al-DaheriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. Adekolu-John, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To assess the factors influencing breast-feeding practices among Al Ainnational mothers.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al Ain City between 22 Novemberand 22 December 1992 to determine prevalence of breast-feeding and factorsinfluencing the feeding practices in a study population of 220 national mothers.Results and Conclusions The majority of mothers (99.1%) breastfed their babiesinitially, although a great number of them introduced bottle feeding early. The meanduration for breast-feeding was 14.8 months. Some factors significantly wereassociated with duration of breast-feeding and types of feeding practices. Thosefactors were maternal age, level of education, occupation, family income, place andtype of delivery and contraceptive use. The most common reasons for stopping ordiverting from breast-feeding were: inadequate milk secretion and new pregnancy.

Project No. 2 (1992)The Prevalence of Contraceptives Methods Commonly Used, and theMotivating Factors - A Community Survey Among Local Women in Al Ain AreaStudent Authors: Mariam Al MatroushiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To assess prevalence of contraceptives use, methods that are used ascontraceptives and the motivating factors among local women in the Al Ain District.Methods A cross-sectional study was performed on 152 woemn visiting Tawampolyclinic between 22 November and 8 December 1992. Inclusion criteria were allnational, married women, aged between 15-45 years old who accept to be interviewedand were taken in the sample. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used asmethod of collecting information.Results and Conclusions Results showed that 25% of the sample were presentlycontraceptive users and 50% ot them had never used a contraceptive method. Thecommonly used methods were oral contraceptive pills, then IUDs for birth spacingmainly. The source of information about contraceptives were mainly hospitals, friendsand family and obtaining the methods mostly from hospitals and pharmacies. Thereasons for stopping last contraceptives use were wishing for pregnancy andexperienced or fear of side effects. The agreement of the husband was not alwaysachieved. The reasons for not using the contraceptives although the women did notwant more children included fear of side effects and husbands refusal mostly.Recommend that people be educated more about contraceptives by all resources andeducation should include men to minimize their refusal.

Project No. 3 (1992)Epidemiological Features of Streptococcal Pharyngitis in Al Ain School AgedChildrenStudent Authors: Hessa Khalfan Al-GhazalFaculty Supervisors: Dr. E.G. Adekolu-John, Dr. M.A.A. MoussaAbstract:Objectives To determine the risk factors associated with Group A Beta HaemolyticStreptococi (GABHS) pharyngitis in Al Ain school aged children (from 6-18 years)including socio-demographic factors such as age, sex, nationality, and socio- economicstatus. To estimate the rate of isolation of GABHS among cases of pharyngitis incomparison to asymptomatic school children.Design Case-control study.Subject Two groups, 150 cases of pharyngitis attending primary health care centersand 150 controls from healthy school children.Results and Conclusion GABHS were isolated significantly more frequently amongcases with pharyngitis than among controls. Due to the small sample size, nosignificant risk factors were identified. Overcrowding was the only factor associatedwith the occurrence of GABHS. Shorter duration of symptoms was also associated withGABHS but no other clinical features were found significantly different between thosehaving positive and negative GABHS. Proper health education and further studies arerecommended.

Project No. 4 (1992)Pattern of Drug Consumption Among UAE Nationals During Pregnancy in theRegion of Tawam Hospital, Al AinStudent Authors: Nadia Mohammed Saleh A. RahimFaculty Supervisors: Dr. R. Sokas, Dr. M.A.A. Moussa, Dr. M.M. HosseinAbstract:Objectives To find out the pattern of drug consumption among UAE nationals duringpregnancy in the region of Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE.Method The extent of drug consumption was studied by presenting a questionnaire to200 pregnant women in obstetrics and midwifery clinic of Tawam Hospital.Results and Conclusion 95% took some combination of multivitamins/iron preparation,42% of the sample interviewed had used drugs other than these during theirpregnancy. When vitamins are included a range of 1-5 drug preparation per patientwas noted. Only 7 (4%) of these were self-medicated, the greater majority werephysician prescribed, traditional remedies were used by 48% of the women. Both nonvitaminsdrug use and traditional remedy use remained constant for various levels ofage, parity, gestation, socio-economic class and education.

Project No. 5 (1992)Caffeine and Blood Pressure in Al Ain Female populationStudent Authors: Mona Al ShaikhFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J Anderson, Prof. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To find out relation of caffeine intake with blood pressure.Methods In this study the total caffeine intake per day was measured for 150 ladiesfrom Al Ain population within the age group 20- 50 years through home visit. In thesame time their blood pressure was measured. Diabetic, smoker and obese ladieswere excludedResults and Conclusion Both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures were regressedto caffeine intake and age and it was found significant only for age. 28% were knowncases of hypertension. The most exciting information was that: the mean of total dailycaffeine intake was 13.27mg/day within the range of 00.00-85.05 mg/day, which ismuch lower compared with other countries.

Project No. 6 (1992)Comparison of Patient Satisfaction with Two Primary Health Centers in Al AinStudent Authors: Mustafa Al-HashemiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives The assessment of patient satisfaction has become an important concern inthe evaluation of health services presented to the people. The study with its variouscomponents are put together to accomplish certain aims and objectives, whichmeasure the patient satisfaction from the point of view of doctor characteristics.Method The study took place at two primary health care centers; Al Yahar and AlMuwaijee health centers. A total of 461 subjects and 8 general practitioners wereinterviewed.Results The study showed that the doctor characteristics have more influence towardpatient satisfaction, compared with other factors. Where it was found that score onpatient satisfaction was inversely related to the doctor’ age and directly related todoctor speaking the Arabic language.Conclusion Improvement in the health staff from the point of view of providing betterhealth working education would have a good impact based on the results of this study.

Project No. 7 (1992)The Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Infants Aged 2-18 MonthsAttending the Immunization ClinicsStudent Authors: Wedad Al-HajjFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among infants aged2-18 months. To observe The feeding practice in the areas of Al Ain. To study theeffects of the variations of feeding practices on iron deficiency anemia (IDA)Design Both prospective and retrospective were applied in this study.Setting The immunization clinic that was held in both Tawam Hospital and departmentof preventive medicine.Methods During the clinics, the answered an interview administered questionnaireabout infant’s feeding practices. The child’s weight and height were measured. Acapillary blood sample was taken. Infants with Hb levels less than 11g/dl wereconsidered anaemic. Further analysis of CBC was applied using a discriminativeformula based on Hb and MCV, a positive result was considered as IDA and a negativeresult as thalssaemia trait.Results Of the 170 studied infants, blood samples were Available for 156.Anaemia wasfound in49%of the infants, of which 88%were IDA and 12% were thalssaemia trait.The overall means Hb was 10.9g/dl. Of the males, 57% were anaemic and of thefemales 40%, this difference was Significant (p=0.03) There was a high prevalence ofbreast feeding which was continued for more than 12 months in 64% mothers.Anaemic infants significantly started bottle feeding earlier (before 6 months) than nonanaemicinfants (p=0.03) The weight to height measurement showed that 93% ofanaemic infants were physically retarded compared with 92% of the non-anaemicgroup.Conclusion Anaemia is a major health problem in infancy and preventive measuresmust be taken to ensure an adequate nutrition in general and adequate iron intake inparticular.

Project No. 8 (1992)A study of ante-natal knowledge and practices among pregnant women in Al-AinStudent Authors: Mona Abdulla MosaFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:

Project No. 9 (1992)Weight and Length in the Newborn and the Prenatal Maternal Factors whichAffect the Birth WeightStudent Authors: Salma MohammedFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J. Anderson, Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To estimate the mean birth weight and length by gender among UAEnational newborn and the influence of some of the important prenatal maternal factorson birth weight.Subjects and Method A cross sectional survey was done using a structuredquestionnaire. Data were collected through files and interview of mothers at Al Ain,Tawam and Oasis Hospitals.Results A data of total 118 newborns were collected in 15 days. The mean weight was2951 gm, with SD of 371.5 gm and the mean length was 47.3 cm with SD of 0.218cm. These parameters were within the international standard ranges (2500-4000 gm)and (48-52) respectively. The following factors were found to influence the birthweight: mother’ age and education, diseases (DM and hypertension), attendance ofantenatal clinic and family income.Recommendation Establishment of health education programmes to improve the meanbirth weight of the UAE babies in those with low birth weight.

Project No. 10 (1992)Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus Among 20 Years Old and Above of Al YaharNational populationStudent Authors: Abdul Rahman Al-Mamari Omar NaseebFaculty Supervisors: Dr. E.O. Adekolu-John, Dr. M.A.A. MoussaAbstract:Objectives The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of diabetes mellitusand associated factors among 20 years old and above Al Yahar national population.Methods The study was performed using data collected randomly from 200 subjects(107 men and 93 women), attending Al Yahar health center.Results The prevalence of previously known and newly diagnosed diabetics based on ahistory of diabetes and urine glucose test respectively, was (21.5%, 43 diabetics outof 200 subjects), being higher among males (25%) than females (17%). The rate ofdiabetes increases with age among males, while among females the peak was in the30-39 years age group. Nationals who are Yemeni in origin have higher rate ofdiabetes than the others (42%). The mean BMI, was higher among diabeticscompared to non diabetics (28.55 vs 27.4). At each obesity level, the rate of diabeticsis higher than non diabetics. The rate of diabetics with positive family history fordiabetes is significantly higher than that of non diabetics.Conclusion Prevalence of DM is relatively high in Al Yahoar. Therefore, there is apressing need to promote public awareness about the disease and to improve thecompetency of the health care system, to achieve better control and early detection ofthe disease. Prevalence of DM is higher among nationals who are Yemeni in origin, sofurther investigation should be carried out on this group in order to identify theaetiological factors which could explain this finding and suggest preventive measures.The frequency of diabetes is higher among males who are 50 years old and above andfemales who are 30-39 years of age, this screening and health education should beemphasized in these groups. There was a high frequency of glucoseuria amongdiabetics so more efficient measures should be applied to ensure better complianceand control of the disease.

Project No. 11 (1992)Clinical Manifestations of G.6.P.D Deficiency in Al Yahar Area - 24 October to12 November 1992Student Authors: Bassam H. MahboohFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M.. Hossain, Dr. M.A.A. MoussaAbstract:Objectives Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase deficiency is the is the commonestenzyme deficiency in the world as 200 million people are affected, it is a well knowncause of jaundice, especially neonatal jaundice were it accounts for a high level ofmortality and morbidity.Methods This study screened, UAE nationals, 200 schoolboys in the Al Yahar area,aged from 12- 16 years. 42 students were included in the clinical part of the project(21 +ve and 21 controls).Results A history of jaundice was found in 57% of deficient and 9.5% of controls,which was a significant statistical difference. Other items of history and physicalexamination were largely associated with G6Pd deficient cases, though they were notstatistically significant.Conclusion We conclude that the clinical manifestations of G6PD deficiency are ofhigher degree and the health policy should be adopted accordingly.

Project No. 12 (1992)Cross-sectional Survey of Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in Al Yahar -October to November 1992Student Authors: Mubarak Saif ObaidFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To define the prevalence of selected risk factors of CHD in Al Yahar area.Also, to identify the most important risk factors of CHD in this area and to determinethe association between those factors and the level of education.Design Cross-sectional population survey.Subjects 160 males and females.Results and Conclusion Most of Al Yahar people (91.8%) were at a low or moderaterisk degree and the most important risk factors, identified with significant association,were: male sex (40.6%), lack of exercise (78.5%), smoking among males (52.3%)and over weight (68.1%). There was strong association between level of educationand risk factors for CHD. The presence of smoking and use of animal fat were founddecreasing with increased level of education. The percentage of those who exercise,who use vegetable oil in cooking and who had themselves measured in the last 6months were found increasing with increased level of education.Recommendations Improve the primary health care facilities and services. Also toimprove the health strategies in this area and to improve the quantity and quality ofeducation. More health education about these factors among people are needed.

Project No. 13 (1992)Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia and its Effect on the Outcome ofPregnancy among UAE Pregnant Women in Tawam Hospital, Al AinStudent Authors: Asma Al JanahiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. E. Adekolu-John, Dr. M. MoussaAbstract:Objectives Iron deficiency anaemia is one of the common types of anaemia worldwidedespite it’s low cost intervention. Two third of children and women in child bearing agein developing countries are estimated to have iron deficiency anaemia, but it is foundin all societies.Methods Retrospective survey of iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy among 208randomly selected UAE pregnant women were conducted in Tawam Hospital. Therelevant obstetric data were abstracted from clinical notes in Tawam Hospital’s Medicalrecords department, to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia and itseffect on the outcome of pregnancy among UAE pregnant women in Tawam Hospital,Al Ain.Results The prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among pregnant women was foundto be 22.1% which is close to Egypt and lower than Kuwait, Bahrain and otherdeveloping countries with significant effect on the hematological parameters.17.4% ofwomen needed blood transfusion; while among 60% of iron deficient women, babieshad lower than average birth weight. Placental weight of the anaemic subjects waswithin normal range. Susceptibility to infection and inability to withstand hemorrhagedid not significantly increase.Conclusion We recommend higher emphasis on nutritional education of pregnantwomen as well as joint supplement.

Project No. 14 (1992)UAE Community Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards Cancer and itsScreening testsStudent Authors: Fatma Hyay Al MansouriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. R. Sokas, Dr. M. MoussaAbstract:Objectives To assess general public awareness, attitude, and practice towards cancerand its screening tests and to determine the prevalence of check-up visits, BSE andPap Smears in UAE.Methods The study included 153 national women who were interviewed through homevisits in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain areas.Results and Conclusion It was found that women in the UAE exhibit a high degree ofanxiety about cancer, the majority think that cancer cannot be prevented. Over half oUAE women (55%) do not feel comfortable eating, drinking, socializing, working, orliving with a cancer patient. Highly educated women and those who have lived with acancer patient or had a family member with cancer felt significantly less discomfort intheir dealings with cancer patients. Only a fraction of UAE females are aware of thepotential benefit, practice of cancer screening procedures, such as physical check-up(7.2%), BSE (4.6%) and Papsmears (3.6%). Most women fail to have screeningprocedures because they do not have symptoms. There is a great demand foreducational programmes.

Project No. 15 (1992)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of known Diabetic Patients in Al-AinDistrictStudent Authors: Afra Ahmed ZaalFaculty Supervisors: Dr. R. Sokas, Dr. M.A.A. MoussaAbstract:Objective Diabetes Mellitus is a common problem in the UAE and other counties in theworld. This invited a cross sectional survey of known diabetics in order to evaluate theextent of their knowledge, attitude and practice about the disease.Subjects The study comprised 100 diabetics who had the disease for at least 2 yearsand aged 15-70 years.Methods A specially designed questionnaire was completed through personal interviewin Tawam and Al- Jimi diabetic clinics. The questions about knowledge included:symptoms, management, and common complications, while the attitude questionsincluded the impact of the disease on the patients’ life style. Questions related topractice included: their behaviour concerning sugar, management of sore, cut and eyedoctor visits.Results The male/female ratio in this group was 1/1.04, illiteracy rate was high 39%.To objectively evaluate the extent of knowledge, attitude and practice, an overallscore was assigned on the 3 areas. It was found that the score of knowledge issignificantly negatively correlated with age (p=0.007). Although there was a tendencyof improvement of knowledge attitude and practice, yet this result did not reach thelevel of statistical significance because of the low sample size.Conclusion This study showed prove to the usefulness of developing health educationprogramme for diabetes. Also it calls for larger studies to ascertain the relationshipbetween the knowledge, attitude and practice.

Project No. 16 (1992)The Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Peptic Ulcer PerforationStudent Authors: Afra Mohammed Al-MarriFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:Objectives To study the frequency of PPU during Ramadan between 1981- 1991.Assess the seasonal effect on PPU. Identify the people who are at high risk ofdeveloping PPU during Ramadan. Assess the effect of dietary habits and daily activitieson PPU during Ramadan. Identify the morbidity and mortality associated with PPUduring Ramadan.Design Analytical retrospective and prospective study was conducted on all patientswith perforated peptic ulcer presenting to both Al Ain and Tawam hospitals from19981-1992.Results and Conclusion The frequency of peptic ulcer perforation was found higherduring the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan (up to 33%) compared to other months.Perforation occurs mainly in Muslim males 21-40 years old, from the Indiansubcontinent who are healthy skilled manual workers, who had suffered slightindigestion or dyspepsia for less than 3 months.

Project No. 17 (1992)The Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Markers in Al Ain - A Cross SectionalSurveyStudent Authors: Ghada Abdulla KalantarFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:Objectives Hepatitis B Virus is a serious problem in several areas of the world.However little is known about the prevalence of HBV in the UAE.Methods During sept.12-oct.14, 1992, 77males and 143 females attending TawamHospital OPD were screened for HBV markers using Abbot enzyme immunoassay tests.Biochemical (LFT and A Feto Protein) and physical examination for signs of chronicliver disease were performed and socio-economic information was recorded.Results The results showed that 6.5% of males and 7.0% of females were HbsAgpositive, anti-HBs was present in 26.0% of the males and 21.7% of the femalepopulation, anti-HBc was present in the 27.3% of the male and 22.4% of the femalepopulation, and HbsAg was present in 27.3% of the male and 20.0% 0f the femalepopulation. Signs of chronic liver disease were not found in HbsAg +ve population.However, 3 cases of jaundice (1.5%),2 cases of hepatomegaly (1.0%) and 1 casesplenomegaly was found in HBs –ve population due to non viral hepatitis andhemolytic diseases. Among routes of transmission, blood transfusion was foundresponsible for 20.% of the cases, tattooing for 6.7% and acupuncture for 6.7%. Inthe HbsAg positive individuals LFT did not show major abnormalities except in thevalues of SGOT and T.Bilirubin.Conclusion The need for extensive screening and vaccination is discussed in the lightof this survey.

Project No. 18 (1992)Prevalence of Asthma Among School Children of Al Yaher Area in Al Ain City,UAE, aged 6-14 yearsStudent Authors: Jamal Al-MutawaFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J. Anderson, Dr. H.H. HossainAbstract:Objective To find out the prevalence of asthma and to Assess factors and symptomsamong Al-Yahar school children 6-14 years, in Al Ain city, UAE.Design A self administered questionnaire on asthma risk factors and symptoms wasdistributed to the school children, for completion by parents and return to the school.Peak flow examination also applied for lung function.Setting Five government primary schools; three boy’s schools and two girl’s schools inAl-Yahar area.Main outcome & measures Prevalence of asthma among School children and significantpeak flow to diagnosed Asthma.Results Prevalence rate was 9.6% among school children aged 6-14 years, which were24 asthmatic children out of 250 children. The prevalence was high in asthmatic boysthan asthmatic girls with a ratio of 3:1 and was statistically significant. According tothe tribes in Al-Yahar the Yamani children have high prevalence of asthma than othertribes in the same area.50% of asthmatic children had the first attack of asthma in thefirst two years of the life. The prevalence of Asthma was higher (14.3%) if the parentssmoked 5-10 cigarettes per day and the prevalence was less if the parents smokedless than 5 cigarettes per day. The examination of the peak flow shows that two onlyhave abnormal lung function and these two children were having recent attack ofasthma.Conclusion This is the first study done in UAE about Prevalence of asthma. This studyneeds to be spread to include all other Emirates, to assess the influence of theenvironment, genetic and other factors on asthma.

Project No. 19 (1992)Prevalence of Bacteriuria among Pregnant Women in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Amal Mohamed SharifFaculty Supervisors: UnknownAbstract:Objectives Asymptomatic bacteruria is a common during pregnancy. It is importantrisk factor for acute pyelonephritis, low birth and prematurity. This study was designedto measure the prevalence rate of bacteruria in Al Ain.Methods Total of 163 mothers attending antenatal clinic in Tawam Hospital and Al AinHospital were included in the study.Results and Conclusion Prevalence rate was 8.6%, with 45.5% asymptomatic patients.High bacteruria rate was found in highly educated and working mothers and those inthe age group 17-20. Suggest this study should be followed up with further studies.

Project No. 20 (1992)Glucose-6 Phosphatase Dehydrogenase Deficiency and Sickle Haemoglobin inAl Yaher UAE National School BoysStudent Authors: Khalid Khuder Ali MohamedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. M. MoussaAbstract:Objectives Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase deficiency is the is the commonestenzyme deficiency in the world as 200 million people are affected, it is a well knowncause of jaundice, especially neonatal jaundice were it accounts for a high level ofmortality and morbidity.Methods This study screened, UAE nationals, 200 schoolboys in the Al Yahar area,aged from 12- 16 years. 42 students were included in the clinical part of the project(21 +ve and 21 controls).Results A history of jaundice was found in 57% of deficient and 9.5% of controls,which was a significant statistical difference. Other items of history and physicalexamination were largely associated with G6Pd deficient cases, though they were notstatistically significant.Conclusion We conclude that the clinical manifestations of G6PD deficiency are ofhigher degree and the health policy should be adopted accordingly.

Project No. 21 (1992)Epidemiology of Respiratory Diseases among Al Ain Population in 1991(Descriptive Retrospective Cross Sectional Study)Student Authors: Moza Mohammed Ali, AlsabousyFaculty Supervisors: Dr. R. Sokas, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of respiratorydiseases among Al Ain city population in the UAE during 1991. The specific objectiveswere to find out the frequency of the different respiratory diseases by sex, age andnationality compared to other health problems; their seasonal distribution and how farthey were investigated or needed referral or specialty care.Methods Data were abstracted from existing medical records. The sampling schemewas two stages by which three primary health care clinics (Al Masoudy, Oud Al Tobaand Al Niadat) were selected randomly, then patients were selected systematicallyusing a 1 in 60 sampling scheme. By this method 3481 patients with 3556 diseaseswere obtained from all medical consultations during 1991.The collected data includedpatient’s disease, month of presentation, age sex nationality and whether the patientrequired further investigations or hospital referral.Results Respiratory diseases account for 49.6% of all diagnoses. The commonestrespiratory diseases were upper respiratory tract infections, tonsillitis and pharyngitis.Respiratory diseases were predominant during January, November and December ofthe year especially in young children below the age of five who comprise 41% of allrespiratory cases. Males account for 53 of all diagnoses (P

Project No. 22 (1992)Prevalence of Risk factors of Intestinal Parasites of School Children (6-16years) in Al-Yaher area - 24 October to 12 November 1992Student Authors: Saeed M Al BakerFaculty Supervisors: Dr. E.O. Adekolu-John, Dr. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To find out the prevalence and risk of intestinal parasites of school children(6-16 years) in Al-Yahar area.Methods Stool specimens from 181 children between the age of 6 and 16 yearsattending 5 primary and intermediate schools in Al Yahar area in Al Ain district in AbuDhabi, UAE were examined for the presence of intestinal parasites and the related riskfactors.Results 13 (7.2%) were found infected with intestinal parasites. The parasitesidentified were Giardia lamlia (3.9%) E.coli (1.1%) Hymenolepsis Nana (1.1%) andAscaris lamricoides (0.6%).The most common groups of children who have intestinalparasite infection were male, local aged 6-14 years, primary school, not wearingshoes, living in government house, have old fashion toilets, and owning animals.Conclusion It is suggested that a wide population survey should be conducted toelucidate the prevalence and risk factors.

Project No. 23 (1992)Prevalence of Bacteriuria in Al Ain Female Population - A Cross SectionalSurveyStudent Authors: Nawal Ahmed Abdullah FarisFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:Objectives To find out the prevalence of Bacteriuria among female population in Al Ain.Methods 253 pregnant females aged 15 years and older attending the Oud Al Tobaprimary health center (PHC) were tested for Bacteriuria irrespective of urinarysymptoms. A clean catch midstream specimen of urine was cultured for presence ofbacteria. Urine specimens were also tested for nitrite and leukocytes esterase using adipstick test.Results 14 females showed significant Bacteriuria (colony count>105 Organisms/ml)giving a Bacteriuria rate of 5.5%. Higher prevalence of Bacteriuria was noted amongthose in their 20’s and 30’s than among teenagers and those in their 40’s. Marriedwomen had a higher prevalence of Bacteriuria than single women. No relationshipbetween Bacteriuria and parity was found. UAE women had a lower prevalence ofBacteriuria than women of other nationalities. Approximately half of the patients withsignificant Bacteriuria presented with urinary symptoms; the most frequent complaintswere dysuria and frequency of micturition. A small percentage (3.5%) of Bacteriuriawomen gave a history of past urinary tract infection. The commonest organismisolated was E.Coli (85.7%) followed by Klebsiella (7.1%) and Acinetobactor(7.1%).E.Coli isolates were more susceptible to nalidixic acid, cephaloridine, andpiperacillin.Conclusion The prevalence of bacteriuria among non-pregnant Al Ain femalepopulation is low, so a mass screening for bacteriuria is not advisable.

Project No. 24 (1993)Hepatitis B Immunization for new borns in Al Ain Medical DistrictStudent Authors: Mohammed YakoubFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Moussa, Dr. C. OyejideAbstract:Objectives To study the extent of compliance of newborns to Hepatitis BImmunization Schedule in Al Ain Medical District during 1992. Also to determine theproportion of newborns who are compliant with the WHO recommendations aboutHepatitis B. To determine the distribution of them according to somesociodemographic characteristics.Methods A descriptive study using available data and records of the Maternal andChild Health Section of the Department of Preventive Medicine Al Ain aboutimmunization of Hepatitis B. 160 newborn records were selected for the study.Results The study showed that all the 160 newborns included had their first dose ofHepatitis B Immunization, 91.3% of them had their second dose, while only 46.7%completed the third dose. Only 30% of the immunized newborns complied with therecommended WHO schedule for Hepatitis B vaccination.Conclusions The compliance rate is low (30%). It is recommended for the public tobe educated about the dangers of non-compliance with the WHO recommendations ofHepatitis B immunization programme.

Project No. 25 (1993)Cigarette Smoking Habits Among Al Ain High School StudentsStudent Authors: Latifa Moh'd, Binnona Al KetbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To study the prevalence of smoking among teenagers: To identify theirknowledge about smoking hazards and their perception of it as a health hazard.Methods Out of the total 1904 male high school students in Al Ain, a random sampleof 570 were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire is amodified version of the WHO questionnaire for surveying smoking habits.Results Only 54.7% reported that they had never smoked before, 45.3% admittedthat they had smoked at least once, 19.3% are currently smokers and 26% stopped.There is a steady increase is smoking prevalence with age from 12.1% in the agegroup 16 years or less, to 13.6% in 17 years old, to 30.3% in the age group 18 yearsor more. The prevalence of smoking among the non-UAE students (20.4%) washigher than the UAE students (13.2%). Among the smokers and the non-smokersreligion and smoking effect on health were the two main logical reasons for notstarting to smoke. Seventeen percent of the smokers started before the age of 10Years, 54% between 10 and 15 years, and 29% after the age of 15 years. Theexistence of other smokers in the family increases the likelihood that a student will bea smoker. Twenty three percent of those who have a smoker parent are alreadyregular smokers compared to 11% among those who do not have any smoker in thefamily. About students knowledge about smoking hazards 37% of the smokers wereconcerned about smoking effect on their health compared with 81% of non-smokers.Conclusions This study highly recommends an aggressive action in the prevention ofsmoking at this critical age group. The results also serve as an alarming indicator ofthe future health problems that are growing for certain in the young UAE population.

Project No. 26 (1993)The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of people towards Blood Donation in AlAinStudent Authors: Amna Suhail Al MahairiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To assess the Al-Ain community knowledge, attitude and practice towardsblood donation.Objectives to know how many donors and non-donors we have in Al Ain communityand the reasons why non-donors are not participating in supplying blood stock; andattempt to know the best way of tackling the problem of blood shortage in UAE.Design A cross-sectional study was carried out in two primary health care clinics andtwo general hospitals in Al Ain using an interview administered questionnaire.Subjects 211 subjects within the age group (17-65) were interviewed.Results 32.2% of the study subjects were donors, while 68% were non-donors:52.13% of non-donors were willing to give blood. Apprehension of needle, blood, orharmful effects of blood donation were the most common causes given by non-donorsfor not giving blood. It was found that donors had more favorable attitude than nondonorsbut there was no statistically significant difference between donors and nondonorsin knowledge (p=0.1851).Conclusions 52% of people were potential donors, i.e. willing to give blood. Therefore,the health system and health education providers are the only ones to be blamed inthe problem of blood shortage. A more effective approach should be tried regardinghealth education programs.

Project No. 27 (1993)The pattern of Malaria in Al Ain in 1992Student Authors: Salem Khamis Salem Touaib, Khalifa Mohammed Al SamanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.A.A. Moussa, Dr. C.O. OyejideAbstract:Objectives To determine the pattern of malaria cases in Al Ain in 1992, includingsociodemographic factors of malaria cases such as age, sex and nationality. Also, todetermine the various species of malaria parasite and resistant strains. To describethe seasonal variation and incidence rate of malaria in Al Ain 1983-1992.Methods A descriptive study with subjects selected from the records of the malariasection of the Preventive Medicine Department in Al Ain in 1992.Results Out of 718 malaria cases in Al Ain in 1992, 80.4% of the cases were importedfrom outside and 19.6% did not have complete records. 57.4% of the imported caseswere imported from Pakistan, 18.8% from Oman, 11% from Sudan and 9% fromIndia. Only 7.8% of malaria cases in 1992 were UAE nationals. 55.4% of thenationals cases had got their infection from Oman, 7.1% from Pakistan, 1.8% fromIndia and 35.7% from unknown sources. The commonest type of malaria wasP.falciparum which constituted 51.1% of the cases, followed by p.vivax (48.3% of thecases). 9.1% of P.faciparum were resistant to chloroquine.Conclusions There is no local transmission of malaria in Al Ain and most cases ofmalaria are imported from outside. The incidence of malaria in Al Ain is highest in thesummer months.

Project No. 28 (1993)Tuberculin Survey in Al Yaher, UAEStudent Authors: Abdul Qade IsmailFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J. Anderson, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective An epidemiological study of tuberculosis infection in Al YaharMethods A total of 207 subjects were screened of whom 134 gave a history of BCGvaccination in the past and 73 were BCG negativeResults Among BCG negative children aged 0-14 years, only 8.3% had a positivemantoux (>10mm), a rate lower than the Third World countries but higher thandeveloped countries where under 2% of children are tuberculin reactors. This calls forcontinuation of free treatment of active cases and increased efforts towards screeningof contacts. The results also appears to support the current policy of leaving age inaccordance with WHO recommendations.Conclusion A larger study will be needed before the policy is completely vindicate.Tuberculin reactivity rose steeply with age (8.7% at age 5-14 and 61.5% at age 45-64years) indicating the presence of a large pool of subjects at risk of breaking into activedisease.

Project No. 29 (1993)An Exploratory Review on the Attitudes and Perception of Key Health Workerson Health Promotion and Health Education in the UAEStudent Authors: Saeed A M A Bin Ishaq, (Dissertation submitted in part of therequirement for the degree of MPH of the University of Glasgow)Faculty Supervisors: Prof. J. McEwen, Dr. R. GardeeAbstract:Objective To review the attitudes and perceptions of key health personnel towardhealth promotion and health education in UAE.Methods A survey questionnaire was conducted to review the attitudes andperceptions of key health personnel towards health promotion and health education inthe United Arab Emirates. Respondents were from four different professional subgroupsat central and district levels as well as heads of department and from theprimary health care level. A total of 41 respondents took part in the questionnairesurvey with no refusals.Results The results showed a good level of knowledge about the health issuescurrently affecting the UAE, but also showed wide differences in attitudes andperceptions of key health personnel towards health promotion and health education.There was a perception that although health was improving, there was a new threat tohealth by the appearance of diseases of affluence, like cardiovascular disease, stroke,cancer and road traffic accidents. There was widespread agreement on the costeffectiveness of prevention and health promotion. Many of the respondents showed alack of awareness of the contribution of health promotion and health education, butthere was a consensus shown towards the need for health promotion and healtheducation officers. Key decision makers who were questioned gave differeringsuggestions as to how to deal with the various health issues they had identified in thequestionnaire.Recommendations Recommendations based on the findings of the study will bepassed to the Ministry of Health, which will include a proposal for a morecomprehensive and detailed survey.

Project No. 30 (1993)Patterns of Medicine Utilization Among Patients in Al Ain Primary Health CareClinicsStudent Authors: Mona Qamber Abdulla Al-MullaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. M.A.A. MoussaAbstract:Objectives To identify how widespread is the consumption of prescribed medicationswith exception of contraceptives and vaccines since they are preventive drugs ratherthan therapeutic one. And the objectives were to achieve a realistic picture aboutusing prescribed and non-prescribed medications, source, prescribe and pattern ofmisuse of these medications through self-treatment. In addition to that, differentattitudes towards traditional medicine, as a form of health care, were studied.Methodology This cross-sectional study was designed to interview 400 patients whoattending 2 randomly selected primary health care clinics in Al Ain city. Inclusioncriteria comprised UAE nationals, Gulf Arabs and other Arabs of all patients who areequal or above 14 years of age. It was completed by using a personal interview basedon a questionnaire which has been specially developed for the study.Results The result of this study shows that 66.3% of those interviewed took a form ofmodern medicine while 30% used a form of traditional remedies during the 4 weeksprior to the interview. The 4 weeks period breakdown shows that the rate of modernmedication’s use is significantly high during the 24 hour period. Consumption ofmodern medicine was higher among women than men. However, there was nosignificant difference between males and females regarding the use of traditionalremedies. The majority of patients who used modern medicine were in two age groups40-49 years (75%) and >=50 years (75%). For the traditional remedies, the majoritywere in the age group 40-49 years (44.6%). The consumption of modern medicationswas highest among Gulf Arabs (69.8%). Among university graduates the consumptionof modern medicine was 72.3% and for traditional remedies 41.5%. Physicians werethe major prescribers of modern medicine (74%) while traditional remedies weretaken as a self-treatment among 48% of patients.Conclusion It is concluded that self treatment is a common practice in our communityand despite the developments in health care systems traditional medicine is stillpopular.

Project No. 31 (1993)Patient Satisfaction with Primary Health Care Services in Al AinStudent Authors: Fahmi TarmoomFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objective The assessment of patient satisfaction has become an important tool in theevaluation of health services provided to the people.Methods The study with its questionnaire are put together to accomplish certain aimsand objectives. All are to assess the patient satisfaction towards the health caresystem, staff and services and its relation to patient characteristics.Results The study revealed that the appreciation of people toward the health system isthe issue and no other related factors can be found part from the health staff prospect.It was found that the patient satisfaction was better in Al Muwajee than Al Yahar andthat the score on patient satisfaction is directly related to his age and the level of hisoccupation.Conclusion Further studies should annually take place to have a clear view about howthe people and the health services are progressing.

Project No. 32 (1993)The Prevalence & Correlates of Behavioral Disturbances Among PrimarySchool Children in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Moza Ali Saieh Al KuwaitiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G.H. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of behavioural disturbances among primaryschool children in Al Ain, UAE during January 1993. And to examine the relationshipsbetween behavioural disturbances and selected variables.Methods 2142 primary school children were selected through a multi-phase multistagerandom sampling method. The ages ranged from 5.5-16.7 years. 2100 (98%)were included for teachers assessment using Rutter B2 scale in first stage of study. Inthe second stage only 99 of them could be reached for the mother interview usingRutter A2 scale and Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD). Mothers andchildren short questionnaires were applied for sociodemographic data collection.Results The prevalence of children with deviant score were 13.5% in the generalpopulation. 51.1% of the deviant children had conduct, 35.4% had emotional, and13.4% had undifferentiated disorders. The overall prevalence of these disorders wassignificantly associated with age (P=.0004), gender (boys: 16.3% girls 10.2%) andacademic performance level (P

Project No. 33 (1994)Pulmonary Function Tests Among Young Females in UAE University, Al AinAged 17-25 YearsStudent Authors: Iman Al SowadiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J. Anderson, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To establish baseline data for parameters of ventilator function in youngcitizen females aged 17-25 years, in the UAE University, UAE. Also to find out theprevalence of atopic diseases in the same population.Methods Design: A self- administration questionnaire on atopic disease to femaleuniversity students. Spirometer examination was also applied for lung function.Setting: Female students living in the hostels at the UAE University. Subjects: 200young female University students, aged 17- 25 years. 193 was completed. Overallresponse rate was 96.5%. Main outcome measures: The mean and standarddeviation parameters of lung function and the prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitisand eczema were among the subjects studied.Results Subjects with mean age 20.8±1.61 years, mean weight 56.07kg± 10.68 andwith mean height 158cm ±0.00005, the mean lung function parameters were FVC2.82± 0.42, FEF1 2.56±0.37, PEEP 412.59± 60.14, and PEFM 309.52±86.68 among193 young female University students. The prevalence of eczema was 25.9% whichhigher than prevalence of asthma 6.2% , which lower than the prevalence of allergicrhinitis 202%. In the first-degree relatives, allergic rhinitis (35.25%) was mostcommon than asthma (20.7%) and eczema (32.6%). While in the second degreeasthma (38.35%) was more common than allergic rhinitis (29% and 28%).Conclusion This study is the first study done in the UAE to establish the baseline datafor parameters of ventilator function in UAE citizen. This study needs to be carried outfurther to explore both sexes and other Emirates.

Project No. 34 (1994)A Study of Poor Vision Among Female School Children in Al AinStudent Authors: Aisha Abdulla MohammedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To determine the prevalence of poor vision among female school children inAl Ain district, to compare the prevalence rate among different age groups and toevaluate any association between poor vision and socio-economic status as well as thefamily history of poor vision.Design A cross sectional study was carried out in Al Ain city between 5th of Novemberand the 5th of December1994.Subjects The study population was 368 female students in 3 schools (primary,secondary and intermediate) in Al Ain district.Methods The data was collected in 13 days.Results Out of 368 there was 102 (27.7%) female students with visual acuity worsethan 6/9 and they needed referral to ophthalmologist. The prevalence of poor visionincreased with age being (3.6%) among primary school children and (38.3%) amongsecondary school children. There was strong family history of wearing glasses amongstudents who needed referral (33.7% of students with poor vision had a family historyof wearing glasses). Poor vision was shown to have a linear association with level ofsocio-economic status.Conclusion The yearly screening of visual acuity by the school health departmentshould be continued. The task is now implementing a good health education programamong both children and parents about the importance of early correction of poorvision.

Project No. 35 (1994)Leukemia - A Description of Leukemia pattern in Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Mariam Al-MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. E.O. Adekolu-JohnAbstract:Objective To define the distribution and the types of leukemia and compare this withother studies conducted in other areas in the Gulf. Also to identify the possible riskfactors of the types of leukemia and make recommendations for further studies.Design Descriptive study from the medical records in Tawam Hospital.Methods All records of leukemic patients from January 1990 to December 1993diagnosed in or referred to Tawam Hospital, Al Ain were selected, coded and analysed.Results Out of 73 patients, the majority of patients (60.3%) were below 12 years ofage, whereas 12.3% were between 13-25 years, 12.1% between 26-40years and12.3% over 40years of age. 61.6% of the leukemic patients were males and 38.4%were females. UAE national leukemic patients were 35.6% and non-UAE nationalswere 64.4%. According to patient’s occupation, 19.2% of the leukemic patients havesedentary work, 9.6% have manual work, 67.1% are unemployed and 4.1% arestudents and children below the school age. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) wasthe most frequent (63%) followed by Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) (21.8%) thenfollowed by Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) (12.6%) and Hairy Cell Leukemia andMega Karyoblastic Leukemia 91.4%). ALL pattern was L2 (45.2%) greater than L1(15.1%) greater than L3 (2.7%) and AML pattern was , M4 (8.2%) greater than M2(6.8%) greater than M1 (4.1%) greater than M3 (2.7%). In 42.5% of the leukemiccases there was remission, whereas 41.1% there was no remission,2.7% loss of followup and 13.7% of the patients expired.1.4% of the patients exposed to alkylatingagents, 1.4% of the leukemic patients had Down’s syndrome and 97.3% there was noregistration.Conclusion In Tawam Hospital from 1999- 1993, out of 73 case, 26 (35.6%) were UAEnationals, the rest were expatriates. There was no sufficient information availableabout the risk factors of leukemia in this study, which will need further investigation toexplore the precise risk factors.

Project No. 36 (1994)Knowledge of Local Women about Gestational and Diabetes Mellitus in Al AinDistrictStudent Authors: Salem Musabeh Obaid Al TunaijiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To determine the knowledge of local women about gestational and diabetesmellitus. To know the knowledge of local women about effects of gestational diabeteson mother and fetus. To find out the knowledge of them about symptoms and ways ofreducing the complications. To use the results to guide us for recommendations aboutgestational and diabetes mellitus.Method This study is a prospective study. It was carried out in Al Ain district, in fourprimary health care clinics and one general hospital. The subjects of study werechosen from local women who visit these four centers and the general hospital duringthe period of conducting the study. The study was done through a questionnaire.Results This study involved 250 local women, mostly young, educated and married.The highest percentage of them were university graduates, whereas the lowestpercentage of them were uneducated. Knowledge of elderly women who were mostlynon educated are higher in expectation of possibility of mother and fetal becomeaffected as result of gestational diabetes, whereas most of them fail to know theseeffects. Knowledge of all women about diabetes mellitus was better than theknowledge of gestational diabetes.Conclusion Knowledge of local women about gestational and diabetes mellitus in thisstudy was not high, and they need more work with medical and health education indifferent ways.

Project No. 37 (1994)The Prevalence of Hepatitis B Among Blood Bank Donors in Al-Ain MedicalDistrict Area - October 1994Student Authors: Hamad Al- GhaferiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B infection among blood bankdonors in Al Ain medical district from the beginning of January to the end ofSeptember1994 and to relate this to the demographic characteristics and theoccurrence of other infections.Design A retrospective, descriptive design were applied in this study.Setting The blood bank of both Al Ain and Tawam hospitals were used.Methods Data was collected from both blood bank record books, information sheets,which include the age, sex, nationality and the blood group of these donors, andwhether the donors have hepatitis B, HIV, RPR, ALT or hepatitis C.Results Of 1000 donors selected randomly, only 2.5% were confirmed to be positivefor hepatitis B, all of them were males and most of them were Arabs which constitutes60.0% from the positively confirmed cases. The majority of them were in the agegroup from 20- 39 years old (68.0% of all the sample). Only 1.5% were found to bepositive for hepatitis C and only 0.7% were found to be positive for syphilis and therewas 0% for HIV and elevated ALT. Concerning the relation between both hepatitis Band hepatitis C and hepatitis and syphilis, it was showed, after applying the statisticaltests, that there was a relation between hepatitis B and syphilis and there was norelation between hepatitis B and hepatitis C.Conclusion Hepatitis B is a major health problem requiring preventive measures toensure adequate screening for the blood before providing it for patients, because itcan transmitted through blood transfusion, body secretions and excretions, saliva,semen and vaginal fluids have been shown to be infectious. So after we know the ratein our city, our aim is to design a program to find out these people and to preventanother problem from happening.

Project No. 38 (1994)Comparison Between Smokers and Non-Smokers in Lung Function amongNurses in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Batool Sayed SharafFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To compare smokers and non smokers in lung function and determine theinfluence of age, sex and nationality of smokers on lung function and to makepreliminary inquiries on the influence of asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema andbronchitis on lung function test.Subjects The study population comprised of 176 nurses in Al Ain and Tawam Hospitals,Al Ain.Results 58% of males were smokers and 23.1% of females were smokers. The highestpercentage of smokers was among western 18 (48.6%) and the highest percentage ofnon-smokers was among Asians 78 (87.6%). The measured FVC for smokers was 3.52±0.75 while the predicted was 3.21 ±0.68 and the non-smokers the measured was2.94 ±0.82 while the predicted was 2.79 ± 0.51. The measured FEV1 for smokers was2.83 ±0.62 and for non-smokers was 2.46 ± 0.66 while the predicted for them was2.81 ± 0.67 and 2.41 ± 0.42 respectively. Concerning FEF25-75, the smokersachieved 3.06 ±1.06, while the non-smokers achieved 3.03 ±1.24, the predicted forthem was 3.56 ±0.69 and 3.31 ±0.50 respectively. Pulmonary parameters forsmokers were compared with non-smokers in each nationality, sex, and age group butthere was no much difference between them. This was attributed to several factors. Inasthmatic subjects they had lower FEF 25-75 value (3.04± 1.24) than the predictedfor them (3.32 ± 0.41) also they have lower PEF 374.4 ± 106.7 than that predictedfor them 397.3 ±113.5. Subjects with allergic rhinitis and eczema had also lowerFEF25-75 (2.95 ±1.24 and 3.31 ± 1.12 respectively).Conclusion Smoking is one of the causes that lead to decrease lung function. butbecause of the small sample size it was difficult to prove this in this cross-sectionalstudy. It seems that many factors affect the lung function which include: age, sex,nationality, duration of smoking, intensity of smoking, exposure to environmentalpollution, exercise, and some chest diseases.

Project No. 39 (1994)The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pap Smear among UAE WomenStudent Authors: Aisha Sultan Moh'd Al DhaheriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the acceptability of UAE women for pap smear as a routinesession concerning cervical cancer and its methods of early detection.Design Cross-sectional descriptive and analytic study with before-and-aftercomparison to assess educational intervention impact. Subjects were married UAEnational women attending women’s association schools.Setting 3 different associations in Abu –Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai.Results 78.5% have heard about cervical cancer and 50.43% of the women heardabout pap smear. The major source of their information is the newspaper andmagazines (64.00%) followed by TV (36.73%) and the least source is doctors andnurses (1.09%). 72.93% knew that it is possible to treat it if detected early enoughbefore the educational session, this increased to 90.24% after the session. Theknowledge that cervical cancer can be detected early by pap smear increased from30.20% to 95.56%. The knowledge that early detection has better outcome increasedfrom 49% to 98.22. The percentage of women willing to have pap smear increasedfrom 55.56% to 70.41%. The major reason behind refusing to have a pap smear is thebelieve that the woman is healthy (55.13%) followed by being shy (29.49) and thethought that taking pap smear may be painful (21.15%). 51.57% of women wanted tohave reminder before the session while 65.68% wanted to have a reminder after thesession. The majority of women would like to receive their reminder by phone(33.73%) and the majority would like the smear to be taken in a well women clinic(37.57%) even in Abu-Dhabi and Dubai where there is no well women clinic.Conclusion Educating the concerned women about cervical cancer and its method forearly detection should have more attention from the health authorities. Healthprofessionals have the least influence on women education. The knowledge andattitude can be modified by spreading the right concepts and even the practice can bemodified by long term education, persuasion, motivation and facilitation.

Project No. 40 (1994)Risk factors of Myocardial Infarction, Al Ain, 1994Student Authors: Huda Abdulla Al-SuawidiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective The relative risk factors of myocardial infarction suggested by Keys in 1949are still a subject of discussion and debate up to this date.Methods A retrospective case study was conducted on 180 patients, 165 males and 15females a ratio of 11:1.Results The peak age of occurrence of acute myocardial infarction were between 40-49 years, mostly among Asians (61.7%) and in manual workers (48.3%). Smokingwas present in 55.6%, diabetes mellitus 26.1% hypertension in 30.6% previoushistory of ischaemic heart disease for 30%. Inferior infarctions were relatively highamong the patients, with 47.2% of all the infarction sites. The triglyceride level wassignificantly high (P=0.028) among young patients (

Project No. 41 (1994)Common Eye Diseases in Al Ain City of United Arab EmiratesStudent Authors: Sultan Matar R. MitrefFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. J.N. Norman, Dr. B. BillingAbstract:Objectives Eye diseases leading to visual impairment are common in developingcountries with millions of patients suffering from preventable causes of blindness.Objectives To study the common eye diseases seen in patients presented to TawamHospital Ophthalmic OPD and to determine the associated factors which may lead toeye diseases.Design A retrospective descriptive study of patients presenting with eye problems toTawam Hospital out patient ophthalmology clinic.Subject 105 males, 95 females of all ages.Results The most common disease is conjunctivitis (non-trachomatic) 23.5% thencataract 19.5% then 15% with refractive error and glaucoma 14%. Most of patientshad no associated factors (74%) whereas 17% had diabetes mellitus, 3.5% had oldtrachoma and 2% had hypertension.Recommendation We need to improve our local patient’s level of awareness andhealth consciousness about the attendance to the hospital and to establish an activesystem in which all the school boys and school girls are screened for eye diseases andfor visual acuity and to do further studies to determine the common eye diseases inthe community.

Project No. 42 (1994)Accidents and Injuries Among Children (Age group 0-14 years) in Al AinStudent Authors: Fadeela Mohammed ShareefFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective In order to determine the patterns and types of accidents and injuriesamong children in Al Ain, this descriptive study was conducted in Al Ain city between5th Nov-7th Dec 1994.Methods Records from emergency room in Tawam hospital were reviewed relating tothe common types and sites of accidents and injuries among children aged (0-14years) seen in Tawam hospital over a 2-month period. Three years data (1991-1993)for accidental injuries were collected from Al Ain Medical district.Results The most common types of injuries among children treated in Tawam Hospitalwere superficial injury (41.5%) contusion (14.4%), fractures (11.7) followed by burns(6.6%). There was a difference in the pattern of accidents by age. While superficialinjuries were most common in all age groups. Burns occurred more commonly ininfants, while the proportion of accidents that resulted in fractures increased with age.78.6% of the children with accidents presented to the hospital in the afternoon and atnight. The commonest sites for injuries were lower limb (29.3%), upper limb (24.3%),followed by face, nose, ears and eyes (19.3%). Over the three years period (1991-1993) open wound (25.4%) was the commonest type of injury followed by contusions(21.2%).Recommendation It is recommended that legislation and preventive strategies shouldcarried out to reduce the mortality and morbidity among children linked with injuries.

Project No. 43 (1995)Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms and Associated Factors AmongSecondary School Female Students in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Mona Essa JakkaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective To estimate the prevalence of symptoms of depression and to determinewhether these are associated with personal, family, school performance, healthproblem and life event factors.Methods Cluster sample of female secondary school students in central Al Ai city wasscreened in November 1995 with Brileson DSR scale and 5 dysfunctional relatedquestions.Results and Conclusion of 505 female students aged between 13 and 23 years, 15.6%had depressive symptoms that were significantly associated with personal factors,some of family factors and health problems. Age, school performance and life eventwere not significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Considerable proportionof female secondary school students in Al Ain city manifest symptoms of depression.Secondary school students in Al Ain and comparable areas should be screened fordepressive symptoms and those found positive, by screening test, should be assessedby psychiatrists to conform the presence or absence of depression, which needs expertcare.

Project No. 44 (1995)Estimating the Prevalence of Low Back Pain and Associated Risk Factors in AlAin populationStudent Authors: Mohammed I Bin YakoubFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To describe the epidemiology and risk factors for low back pain andassociated functional disability.Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey conducted at the Primary Health CareCenters. PHC centers were selected by simple random sampling method. 288 patientswere selected by systematic sampling method. The data were collected by two parttype questionnaires, the first part aimed to assess low back pain, its presence,duration, radiation, onset, associated risk factors and people’s knowledge about thevarious ways to relieve the pain, while the second part is a modified Rolandquestionnaire aiming to assess functional disability in patients.Results The prevalence of low back pain among Al Ain population was found to be59%. Risk factors for low back pain were sex, place of living and type of airconditioning. The prevalence of low back pain was found to be high among those wholived in semi-urban areas (77.4%), females (69.2%), housewives (69.2%), obesepeople (68%), users of wood chairs (71.7%) and users of cotton mattresses (67.4%).A relatively low prevalence rate was reported by those who used central airconditioning (27%).Conclusion The prevalence of low back pain among Al Ain population was similar tothat reported by other studies. Further survey of low back pain in other Emiratesshould be encouraged.

Project No. 45 (1995)View Point of Locals Towards Mental IllnessStudent Authors: Aida M Al AwarFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. OyejideAbstract:Objective The knowledge and attitudes of 340 local people aged 18 years and above inAl Ain city towards mental illness is evaluated.Method Subjects were selected by cluster sampling in the female and male hostels ofthe UAE University and systematic random sampling in the general OPD of TawamHospital. Self-administered questionnaire and interviews as appropriate were used tocollect data.Results The most common type of mental illness mentioned was schizophrenia whichconstituted 47.4% followed by depression (33.8%). The mean knowledge score was16.09 and was significantly higher among younger age group, females and mosthighly educated. Attitudes were also significantly associated with the age group andeducational level. The response towards a psychiatric patient while in a public place,revealed that calling a doctor constituted about 50% of responses by young age groupand University educated; and behaving normally constituted nearly 50% of responseby older age group and non-University educated.Conclusion In general, the knowledge and attitude of the respondents appears to belimited. An educational programme for provision of information about psychiatricillnesses should be organized.

Project No. 46 (1995)Pulmonary Function Tests Among Young Male Students Aged 18-30 Years atthe UAE University,UAEStudent Authors: Abdul Aziz Saeed Bin ButtiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Prof. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To set up a baseline data for parameters of ventilator function in youngadult male students aged 18-30 years in UAE University in the UAE. In addition, toestablish the prevalence of atopic diseases in the same population.Methods An analytic cross-sectional survey. A self-administered questionnaire onatopic diseases were distributed to UAE male university students. Then pulmonaryfunction tests were assessed by using a spirometer. Setting was the UAE University inAl Ain City, UAE at the Male Students University Hostels. Subjects were 250 youngnational male university students, aged 18-30 years. 230 completed thequestionnaire and pulmonary function test conducted on them. Overall response ratewas 92%. Main outcome measures were the mean and standard deviation values ofsome lung function parameters, and the prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitis andeczema among the subjects studied.Results Subjects with a mean age 21 years, a mean weight 71 kg and a mean height167cm, the mean lung function parameters were: FVC 3.82, FEV1 3.61, PEFP 564 andPEFM 492 among 230 young male university students. The prevalence of asthma was11.7% and the prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 27% which is higher than theprevalence of eczema which was 15.7%. In the first degree relative allergic rhinitisprevalence was 22.2%, then prevalence of asthma comes with 21.7% and eczemawith 19.6%. However in the second degree relatives the prevalence of asthma is thehighest prevalence which comes with 19.6% then allergic rhinitis prevalence 15.7%and finally eczema 13%. There were significant differences between males andfemales considering the prevalenceses of atopic diseases.Conclusion This is the first study which has been done in the UAE to set up a baselinedata for parameters of ventilator function in young national males in the UAE. Thisstudy needs to be carried out further to explore both sexes, different age groups anddifferent places in the UAE.

Project No. 47 (1995)Benign Anorectal Diseases - Risk Factors and Delayed Consultation - A CaseControl StudyStudent Authors: Fatma KhamisFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives This study attempts to identify possible risk factors for developing benignanorectal diseases and to define the correlates of medical consultation of benignanorectal disease patients. It also provides an overview of the number, age and sex ofpatients who were operated for benign anorectal diseases in 1994 in Al Ain Hospital.Moreover it attempts to document the most common presenting symptoms of benignanorectal diseases and to find out the patients impressions regarding their illnessbefore seeking medical advice.Methods 52 benign anorectal disease patients were interviewed and 129 patients werethe controls.Results and Conclusion The results showed that benign anorectal diseases relatedsurgical procedure are the second commonest procedure carried out in 1994. Thestudy suggests that occupation, constipation, chronic cough, varicose veins,pregnancy, illiteracy and western diet are potential risk factors for developing benignanorectal diseases. Heavy lifting and chronic cough were frequently associated withhemorrhoids. Prolonged sedentary activity was more frequently associated with fistula,and pregnancy was more frequently associated with fissure. Constipation and westerndiet showed the same distribution among patients with hemorrhoids and fissure. Analpain prolapse and anal bleeding were the most common presenting symptoms.Patients mostly think that they have hemorrhoid eventhough it was not diagnosed.76.8% of patients had a delay of more than 2 months before consulting GP’s andilliteracy was core factor behind delay.

Project No. 48 (1995)The Most Common Causes of Mortality in Al Ain District among Adult Males -1988 and 1993Student Authors: Omar Abdulrahman Al ShaikhFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. OyejideAbstract:Objectives To describe the most common causes of mortality among adult males in AlAin district and to determine the association between the causes and age group.Methods Descriptive study using on data collected from the record of the preventivemedicine department by looking at death certificate for adult males above 15 years oldfor the year 1988 and 1993.An abstraction form was designed to collect relevantinformation. The information collected were age, nationality, religion, marital status,occupation and causes of death. Reported causes of death were reviewed and codedusing the WHO international classification of diseases.Results Majority of cases were older than 70 years (21.4%) and 30-39 years old group(20.8%).UAE and Oman nationals accounted for 50.1% of the total. 93% wereMoslems and 90.9% were married also 32% were workers. The main cause ofmortality were circulatory diseases (32%), injuries (27%) and neoplasm (13.1%).Conclusion This study shows that the non communicable diseases are the majorcauses of mortality among adult males in Al Ain followed by injuries. Also it confirmsthat young men are at higher risk of dying due to injuries and the main cause for thatis RTA.

Project No. 49 (1995)Diabetes Mellitus as a Risk Factor for Poor Outcome of Pregnancy Among UAEwomenStudent Authors: Jassim Mohammedd KulaibFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. A. Bener, Dr. H. HajiAbstract:Objective To assess the effect of diabetes mellitus on the outcome pregnancy and thenewborn in terms of complications during the delivery and complications effect on thebaby among pregnant.Methods This study is a case control study. It was conducted in Tawam Hospital duringa 2 year period (January 1993-December 1994). 150 UAE diabetic women whodelivered in 1993-1994 were selected as cases. 150 non-UAE diabetic women whodelivered in the same years were selected as controls. Cases and control werematched by 5-year age intervals.Results 84% of the UAE diabetic pregnant women had gestational diabetes where theother types were slightly close to each other. Pre-term labor was more common indiabetics. Complications of delivery such as induction and elective c/s. Physicalcharacteristics were poorer among babies of diabetic women. They had significantlyhigher birth weight, length and head circumference. Marcosomia was one of thesignificant complications in newborn of diabetics. The newborn of diabetics had lowerApgar score at 1 min and 5 min.Conclusion This study has shown that UAE diabetic women have more complications atdelivery than non- diabetic UAE women. Babies of diabetics had significantly morecomplications than babies of non-diabetic. All pregnant women must be screens in firsttrimester.

Project No. 50 (1995)Nutritional Status and Food Habits among Female School Children Aged 6-12Student Authors: Mariam AbdullahFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective The nutritional status, food habits and sources of nutritional informationwere evaluated among female school children aged between 6-12 years old.Method Data was collected by questionnaire and anthropometric measurements.Results The mean of height and weight for the UAE girls were compared with Saudigirls and were found similar. Regarding food habits there was no difference betweenfood intake in each age group but as age increased the food intake decreasedincluding vegetable and fruits. Among three different meals, breakfast was the mostone skipped. All children take fast food and 44.9% take them frequently. The mainsources of nutritional information were the parents.Conclusion More studies should be carried out in this field to promote the nutritionalstatus and food habits among school children.

Project No. 51 (1995)The Effect of Indoor Environmental Factors on Respiratory Illnesses in UAEchildren in Al Ain and Khorfakkan CitiesStudent Authors: Badria Abdulla YousifFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To determine which one of the following indoor environmental factors has amajor effect on respiratory illness in children (Frankincense, tobacco smoking, cookingfuel and indoor pets). To study indoors environmental factors in relation to the area ofresidence of the child and mother’s age, occupation and level of education. To knowthe action of mothers towards their children during their illness and after diagnosis.Design This is a cross sectional analytic study using pre tested structuralquestionnaire. The studied subjects were mothers who had UAE children aged from 1–5 years.Setting Al Ain primary health care clinic in Tawam Hospital was chosen to conduct thisstudy, while in Khorfakkan a household survey was held in three areas (Al Qadsia,Heyawa, Medifi)Results This study involved 274 mothers from Khorfakkan and Al Ain cities. Thepercentage of children exposed to tobacco smoking and had asthma and chronic coughwas higher than those who were not exposed to the same factors. There were nosignificant differences between the children who had respiratory illnesses and exposedto frankincense from those who didn’t have respiratory illness and exposed to thesame factor. 26.8% of children who had previous chest illness were exposed to indoorsprays, while 11.9% who had chest illness and exposed to the same factors. Therewere significant differences between those who had chronic sputum and asthma andexposed to indoor pets from those who didn’t had the same illness and exposed to thesame factor. In Khorfakkan children were more exposed to frankincense. 91.7% ofmothers had a positive attitude towards their children illnesses. Children conditionimproved as mothers reduced their to indoor pollution.Conclusion Controlling indoor pollution is an important factor in improvement ofrespiratory illnesses in children. Health care provider should use passive attitude ofthe mother towards her child illness to improve its status.

Project No. 52 (1995)Relationship between Risk Behaviours and STDs Acquisition among Males inDermatological Clinic in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Moza MosallamFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective The incidence of STD’s has tremendously increased during this century. Aninvestigation for this problem must be made in order to suggest protective measures.The main objective for this study was to investigate the risk behaviours among STDpatients.Methods A case control study was conducted in a dermatological clinic in Al AinHospital for a sample of 180 participants (38 cases and 142 control group). A selfadministeredquestionnaire and interviews as appropriate were used to collect data.Results There was a highly significant difference between the case and the controlgroups regarding partner numbers (89.4% and 21.8% respectively) (p

Project No. 53 (1995)Traditional Herbal Medicine Practice in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Faiza Ahmed AteeqFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective The major aim of this study was to define the practice and use of herbalmedicine for treating illness among Al Ain population. And the objectives were toestimate the prevalence, usage, and superiority of herbal medicine and to compare itwith modern medicine.Methodology This cross-sectional descriptive study was designed to interview 270subjects of Al Ain residents attending Tawam Hospital GP’s clinic, Al Masoudi clinic andAl Ain women’s college. Inclusion criteria comprised UAE and non-UAE national, bothsexes and all above 14 years of age. It was completed by using a personal interviewbased on questionnaire, which has been developed specially for this study.Results The result of this study showed that 93.2% believe in herbs, 78% had takensome form of herbs during their life and 30.4% taken some in the 4 weeks prior tointerview. Consumption of herbal medicine was higher in women (52.9%) than men(47.1%). The majority of people who used herbal medicines were in the age groups20-29 years (40.8%). The consumption of herbal medicine was highest among UAEnational (63.2%), and university graduates (54%). Common cold and dysmenorrheawere among common symptoms treated by herbs (31.6%) and (26.4%) respectively.Parents are the major prescribers (47.4%) and the market is the common source ofherbs (59.6%). Modern medicine is still considered more effective (31.6%), but herbalmedicine is less harmful (69.2%).Conclusion Herbal medicine was and still continue to be part of human life style in ourcommunity despite the dramatic development in health care system. This attitudetowards it is strengthened due to either an increase in un-safety or effects of modernmedicine.

Project No. 54 (1995)Assessment of Pregnancy Health care services in rural and urban areas inUAEStudent Authors: Sultan Humaid, Rashid Al MazrouiFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:

Project No. 55 (1995)The Oral Health Status of Primary School Children in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Suad Abdul RaoofFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective To determine the oral health status of primary school children aged 9- 12years.Methods Data were collected by a self-administered questionnaire and an oralexamination.Results and Conclusions The mean DMFT score was 6.8 of which dental cariesconstituted (85%). Factors that were significantly associated with higher DMFT scoreswere: male sex, lower level of mother’s education, non use of tooth brush for oralcleaning, non attendance at dental clinic and higher frequency of juice and soft drinksintake. Prevalence of gingival and dental deposits were 42% and 62% respectively.The oral health status of children appears to be poor.Recommendations Appropriate dental health education and service program should beinstituted where unavailable and reinforced where already in progress.

Project No. 56 (1995)Social and Dietary Factors Associated with Obesity in University MaleStudents in UAEStudent Authors: Sarhan Al-NeyadiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. Bener, Dr. A.O. MusaigerAbstract:Objective A cross sectional study of 300 University male students aged 18-35 yearswas undertaken in May 1995 to examine some factors associated with obesity amongthemMethod The Method used was a self administered questionnaire and simple biometricsmeasurements.Results and Conclusion Based on Body Mass Index (BMI), (wt/ht2) 19.1% of maleswere underweight (BMI30). The proportion of overweight and obesity was highest in males aged 20years and above 38.8% compared to those aged 18 and 19 years (34% and 27%respectively). Although there was no significant association between obesity and socialfactors studied, the prevalence of obesity was higher in non- nationals, those witheducated mothers and those having a housemaid. There was a highly significantassociation between family history of obesity and obesity. Omitting meals and snackshad no significant association with obesity; however, obesity was more prevalentamong males who did omit lunch (60%) in contrast to males who ate these meals(35%). Although there was no significant association between obesity and life stylefactors studied, the prevalence of obesity was higher in males not smoking (80.2%0,not active (91.59%), having a car (59.4%) and viewing less TV (75.7%).

Project No. 57 (1995)Assessment of Primary Health Care Services in Rural and Urban areas in UAEStudent Authors: Sultan Humaid Rashid Al MazrouiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To assess health services and facilities in PHC, study doctor- patientsatisfaction at PHC and to compare health services and facilities among urban andrural areas.Design Cross sectional study was performed.Setting Patients attending PHC.Subjects 200 participants attending 4 PHC (2 in urban and 2 in rural) in Sharjah and AlAin cities and 19 doctors which are working in these clinics.Results and Conclusion Most of patients and doctors were satisfied with the medicalservices provided in PHC. There was no significant difference between rural and urban,with respect to medical services. However, up to some extent urban clinic patientswere more satisfied. This could be explained by the fact that urban clinics used toserve a large number of people and for that reason they tend to be more equippedand better facilitated with staff. On the other hand, there were some problems whichdoctors and patients complain of such as: most of patients complain that doctorsspend short time with them; while about half of them complain that drugs were notalways available or sufficient. On the other hand, most doctors complain that therewere drug shortages in the clinic pharmacy and they complain also about the loss ofcommunication between them and hospitals.

Project No. 58 (1995)Smoking Habit Among Doctors and Patients in UAE in 1995 Comparing to thatin 1991Student Authors: Bushra Obaid Mohammed Ali Al MansouriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. G. Absood, Dr. M.M.HossainAbstract:Objective To detect people’s attitude towards smoking doctors in the UAE. To get ageneral idea about how common smoking is present among doctors. To comparebetween doctor’s-patient’s attitude towards smoking. To compare the attitude ofdoctors in 1991 and 1995 towards smoking depending on the previous study.Methods The study was conducted in Al Ain city, among two population (doctors andpatients). A standard questionnaire assessing various parameters of attitudes weredistributed to 120 doctors and 200 patients. This study was designed to as a crosssectional descriptive survey among patients and doctors.Results Females less smoke than male patients and doctors. Female smokers were6.3% among doctors, 8.1% among patients. Male smokers were found 29.7% amongdoctors, 44.7% among patients. Arabian doctors were the least smokers (15.6%).European doctors were most smokers (35.3%). Doctors in the internal medicinedepartment were the most smokers (25%) and the least in the paediatrics department(13.3%). The high level of professionals were the most smokers (35.19%) while thelow level were the least smokers (20%). Employees most smokers among patients(54%), teachers least smokers (16.6%), 91.3% of doctors strongly agree about theharmful effects of smoking in 1991, 87.4% in 1995, 52% among patients. The reasonfor not taking up smoking among doctors mainly was to protect health (53.3%) alsomany patients (35.3%). Best way in restricting smoking was to restrict smoking inclosed spaces (33.3%); 81.1% of doctors never smoke in front of patients, 25.7% ofdoctors never smoke while alone at work.Conclusion Practicing physicians have unique opportunities towards spreading antismoking messages to their patients.

Project No. 59 (1995)Prevalence of Headache and Migraine in School ChildrenStudent Authors: Esmat Mohammed Amin QassimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To study the prevalence of headache and migraine among school children inAl Ain and to determine the relation between headache and various factors withspecial emphasis on migraine and the impact of headache on school attendance.Design The study is prospective cross sectional study. Subjects were selected bymultistage random sampling technique and data were collected by questionnaires.Setting Four primary and preparatory schools in Al Ain district in the UAE.Subjects 371 children, representing a random sample of four school children in Al Ainaged 9-15 years.Results The estimated prevalence rate of headache is 43.7% and for migraine is18.5%. The prevalence of headache increased with age, the highest being in the agegroup of 14 years (76.7%). In addition, many factors had a significant association withheadache such as suffering from trauma (p

Project No. 60 (1995)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Women Toward Breast DiseasesStudent Authors: Haifa Hammed Abdullah Bin FarisFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practice of women towardsbreast diseases and if these are influenced by age, educational level, number ofchildren and self or relative/friend experience with such diseases in Al Ain and Ras AlKhaimah districts.Methods Cross sectional descriptive study using pretested structural questionnaire.Studied subjects were women above 18 years old attending primary health andmaternal and child health clinics. Setting was UAE, Oud Al-Toba primary health clinicand maternal and child health clinic in Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah Primary HealthCentre.Results The study involved 225 women from Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah districts. Theoverall knowledge of these women was not high. Knowledge was inverselyproportional to number of children. This may be due to the influence of other factorssuch as the education level which showed a direct relationship with knowledge. 56.4%of women had heard about self breast examination (SBE), among those only 34.5%practiced it. 30.7% had heard about mammogram, but most of those hadexperienced it as part of other investigations for already existing breast problems.With respect to attitude, most women had a positive attitude toward any breastproblem, 67.5% will seek medical advice immediately.Conclusion Knowledge of breast diseases and practice of SBE & mammogram are stillinadequate among the women in UAE community. Therefore, more effort frommedical and health authorities is needed to improve their knowledge and practiceregarding this aspect of women’s health.

Project No. 61 (1995)Sensitivity and Specificity of Ultrasound in ObstetricsStudent Authors: Afaf Al Sayed JafferFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective It looked at the efficiency of ultrasound in Obstetrics by determining itssensitivity and specificity.Design Retrospective control study was conducted for the year 1994.The sampleconsisted of all fetuses in 1994 found post- natally to have anomalies which were 51cases and 255 non cases taken as controls.Methods All the files of the fetuses and their mothers were looked at and aquestionnaire was filled for each one. Then information was then entered and analyzedby the computer.Results and Conclusion The findings suggest that while the specificity proved to behigh in all the categories, the specificity on the other hand was found to be very low.The highest sensitivity found was for the heart as an organ on it’s self and the CNS asan organ system. The best predictive positive value was for the CNS and the bestnegative predictive value was for the URS.

Project No. 62 (1995)Epidemiology of Acute Asthma Among Patients Attending the Accidents andEmergency Department in Tawam Hospital - 1993Student Authors: Wejdan AbulrazzaqFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To determine the epidemiological determinants of acute asthma amongpatients attending the A&E department of Tawam Hospital in 1993. To find therelationship between number of cases and seasonal trend and to compare the findingsaccording to age, sex and time of attendance.Methods Study population was patients who were treated for acute asthma in theaccident and emergency Department of Tawam Hospital from 1 January to 31December 1993. The study was designed as a descriptive and analytical study wheredata were collected from the records of the accident and emergency department ofTawam Hospital. Descriptive data was conducted with chi-square and t-test todetermine the statistical significance between the variables.Results A total of 1000 patients with asthma visited the accident and emergencydepartment of Tawam Hospital during the 12-month study period. Those patientsrepresented 5.1% of the total number of patients (19 589) by all categories of patientsvisiting the accident and emergency department. Frequency of visits increasedprogressively from 195 (10.8%) in October to 205 (11.1%) in December, while in theother months the number of visits were less (chi-square 3.56, significance 0.31).During the 12-month study period, a significant seasonal trend was noted, with anincrease in the frequency of attendance in winter months (Oct, Nov and Dec). Thefrequency of attendance to the accident and emergency department was at its highestlevel in the age group

Project No. 63 (1995)A Study of Knowledge Regarding Diabetes Among UAE Diabetic Patients in Al-Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Lolowa Abdullah Al MukaniFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To assess the knowledge regarding diabetes mellitus among UAE diabeticpatients in Al Ain district.Method Knowledge was assessed by a questionnaire which examined the knowledge ofdiabetic patients about definition, types, diagnosis, causes, risk factors for DM,symptoms, complications, risk factors for complications and treatment.Results 65 patients were females and 35 were males, 77 were type2 (non-insulindependent) and 23 were type1 (insulin dependent) diabetic patients, with a mean ageof 48.84+/- 12 (+/-SD) (range 13-80 years) and mean duration of known diabetes8+/-7 (+/-SD) (range1-15 years).Type1 diabetic patients had nearly a significantlyhigher score (P=0.06) for overall knowledge when compared to type2 patients. No sexdifference in total knowledge was seen. The patient who had health related professionhad a significantly higher score (P

Project No. 64 (1995)Cautery Usage and its CorrelatesStudent Authors: Reema Mohammed Qassim Al HosaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objectives To determine the incidence rate of traditional cautery usage in differentdiseases in various age groups and to estimate the relationship between cautery usageand age, education and marital status.Methods A cross sectional survey was conducted in Bani–Yas on 200 houses. Astructured questionnaire was used to obtain information on cautery practice andattitude. To estimate the relationship between two variables , chi- square test forlinear trend was used. McNemar’s chi square test in 2x2 contingency tables.Results 9.3% of population had cautery during life time. 2.5% of patients with cauteryhad complications. Percentage of cautery with sex in males ranged from 104-56.4% incontrast to 2.5- 50.0% in females. 19% of married subjects receive cauterycorresponding to 5.3% of single subjects. Cautery was used commonly to treatgastroenteritis (36.2%), skeleto-muscular (16.6%) and headache (14.1%). Mostpeople with gastroenteritis had recovered completely (35.2%) in contrast to 11.1% inskeleto-muscular problems and 11.1% in headache. Perceived effectiveness incauterized subjects with age ranges from 76.5% to 100% and with education it rangedfrom 75.0% in illiterate to 100% in high education.Discussion Cautery used in all age group except for children

Project No. 65 (1995)A Study of Menarche and Menstrual Disorders among UAE Girls in Al AinStudent Authors: Mona Abdulla Khalaf EssaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To estimate the age at menarche in UAE girls, types of menstrual disordersand determine their associated factors.Design Cross-sectional survey.Method The study population comprised of 240 UAE women, selected at TawamHospital polyclinic.Results and Conclusions The mean age at menarche was 13.28 ±1.387 year. Thedistribution of age at menarche was not influenced by the socio-economic status,exercise, obesity and race. Most common menstrual disorders among UAE girls wereabdominal pain (55.8%), back pain (50.8%), breast pain (19.2%), nausea (16.3%)and breast fullness (16.3%). This study showed that the PMS among UAE girlsincluded only the physical symptoms (vomiting, breast pain and breast fullness), whilethe emotional symptoms were not reported among UAE girls. Emotional symptomswere reported during and after the menstrual bleeding. In less than 2% of studysubjects, symptoms persisted even after the cessation of menstrual bleeding. Inconclusion, abdominal pain, back pain, nausea, breast pain, and breast fullness aremost common menstrual disorders among UAE girls. There is no significant differencebetween menstrual disorders and age at menarche. This study showed significantdifferences in the irregularity of the menstruation in the first year after menarche andnow.

Project No. 66 (1995)Low Back Pain Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors among UAE Girls in AlAinStudent Authors: Buthaina Abdullah Ali BalielaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. O. Lloyd, Prof. M. KuttyAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of low back pain in Al Ain community, toinvestigate risk factors associated with low back pain and to compare the results withthose obtained from similar studies in the Gulf and the developed countries.Methods A cross- sectional descriptive study was conducted in Al Ain in both TawamHospital GP clinics and Oud Al Tuba clinics among both sexes, with differentnationalities, occupations, age group, and housing conditions. Sample survey size wasn=250 patients and data was collected by a standard questionnaire assessing LBP, itspresence, duration, radiation, onset, associated risk factors and methods tried inrelieving it. Also number of patients who sought medical help for their back ache orwho has been admitted for it was estimated.Results It was found that LBP prevalence in Al Ain was 55.2% which is quite high andmainly among females (63%), housewives or not working males (48%), sedentaryworkers (30.5%), and obese people (54.3%). But according to socio–demographic andhousing conditions and risk factors in general it was insignificant. Habits: smoking9.2% drinking coffee (24.1%) were found to have a significant effect on low back pain.Conclusion This cross sectional descriptive study has shown high LBP prevalencecompared with other countries, which might be related to sampling errors, time andplace limitations. But it should be used to encourage further estimation of LBP in UAEand its associated risk factors and to prevent them.

Project No. 67 (1995)Relations of Anthropometric Measurements and Blood Pressure in Womenaged 20 years and OlderStudent Authors: Nawal Ahmed Mohammed Al KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective to determine whether there is any association between anthropometricmeasurements and blood pressure levels, among women,. 20 years of age and olderin Al-Ain city.Methods This cross sectional analytic study was carried out in Al Ain city. The targetpopulation was UAE national women, 20years of age and above. A questionnaire wasadministered by the investigator. This sought details about age, education, monthlyincome, marital status, menstruation history, current pregnancy, cardiovasculardiseases and diabetes mellitus. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, anthropometricmeasurement5s including weight, height, body circumference and waist- hip ratioswere measured for each subject.Results 223 women were included in the study. Most of the anthropometric variableswere highly inter-correlated (p=

Project No. 68 (1995)Knowledge and Attitude toward Epilepsy among UAE PeopleStudent Authors: Fawziyah Hussain Al-MarzooqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To estimate people’s knowledge about epilepsy in the UAE. To estimatepeople’s attitude toward epileptic patients in the UAE. To get a general idea about howcommon epilepsy is in the community. To establish basic educational programmesaccording to the public needs as revealed by this study.Method The study was conducted in Al Ain city. Two stage sampling technique wasperformed in this study. A standard questionnaire assessing various parameters ofknowledge and attitudes were distributed to 267 individuals.Results Regarding knowledge: 86.1% of respondents were familiar with the concept ofepilepsy in contrast to 13.8% who did not hear about it. 25.7% knew some one intheir family with epilepsy and 49.8% knew someone out of their family with thedisease. 48.6% described epilepsy solely as a disease of the brain. 38.6% relatedepilepsy to evils and demons. 51.3% related epilepsy to psychological causes. 27.3%of people though were familiar with the concept epilepsy, perceived it as a form ofabnormal screaming. 47.3% of people will call for medical help as a reaction toepileptic attack. 19.5% believed that there is no available treatment for the disease.Attitude towards epileptics were favorable regarding various aspects other thanmarriage: since only 30% did agreed to be involved in such marriage in contrary tothe others who either objected to such marriage (41.7%) or were undecided (27.8%).Conclusion People were not clear minded enough regarding causes, nature andtreatment of epilepsy. Therefore, it is very important to establish basic educationalprogrammes to increase people’s awareness of the disease.

Project No. 69 (1995)Waist-to-Hip Ratio as a Better Predictor of Glucose Intolerance than BodyMass Index among UAE Citizens, other Arab and South Asian PeopleStudent Authors: Sheikha Salem Al TajerFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. M.M. HussainAbstract:Objective To investigate the relationship between obesity, fat distribution and the riskof non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) by measuring the random bloodglucose level.Design This case control study was carried out in Al Ain city. The target population wasadults between the ages of 40 to 59 years who were UAE citizens or other Arab orSouth Asian.Methods A questionnaire administered by the examiner. This sought details about sex,age, nationality, occupation, family history of diabetes, whether or not diagnosed withNIDDM. Physical activity, weight reduction diet, anthropometric measures: weight,height, waist, hip circumference random blood glucose was measured for each subjectand for NIDDM subjects years since diagnosis was required and type of treatment.Results The sample comprised of 100 NIDDM and control subjects (49 and 51respectively). No significant differences were identified between the case and controlsin the physical activity, eating habits, and family history as some of risk factors. Forcases and controls, the majority did not practice exercise vigorously: 80% and 92%respectively; majority eat what they want: 80% and 88% respectively; 41% of casehave positive family history of diabetes compared to 29.4% of controls. In both sexesthere is a significant difference between case and controls in random blood glucose.Women show a strong significant difference in waist to hip ratio (WHR) betweendiabetic patients and their control subjects (0.94, 0.88, P

Project No. 70 (1995)The Type, Pattern and Frequency of Congenital Heart Disease amongConsanguineous and Non-Consanguineous UAE familiesStudent Authors: Nasser H Al- NeaimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. Bener, Dr. I. Al-GazaliAbstract:Objectives Consanguineous marriages are common among UAE families, particularlyamong first cousin relations. The purpose of this study was to investigate therelationship of consanguinity to congenital heart diseases.Methods Eighty-four UAE patients were included in this study.Results No significant increase in the incidence of congenital heart diseases amongconsanguineous over non- consanguineous families. However specific diseases such asostrium secundrum type, atrial septal defect and tetralogy of Fallot were commoneramong patients of consanguineous parents. Congenital heart diseases have a multifactorialbackground to which genetics is one contributory factor but not the only one.Conclusion Consanguinity is a public health problem that should be addressed andsensitively approached.

Project No. 71 (1995)The Etiological Factors of Infertility Among Women and the Relevance of IVFtreatmentStudent Authors: Mazen Ali M NajiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective To determine the etiological factors associated with infertility among UAEwomen and to explore the role and success of IVF treatment.Method A total 161 women referred to Tawam Hospital by retrospective analysis ofcase files.Results The major etiological factor of infertility was unexplained infertility in 47.2% ofcases, the second major etiological factor was tubal blockage in 7.5% of cases. Themajority of women were between 21-40 years and women who became pregnantwithout treatment accounted for 39.3% of total women from that group. The successrate of IVF treatment is 22.9%, which is comparable with famous centers around theworld.Recommendation Unexplained infertility should not be taken as a fixed diagnosis andthere should be an underlying cause, because some of women got pregnant withoutany medication.

Project No. 72 (1995)Use and Abuse of Emergency Services at Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Ahmed Faisal FarhoodFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To identify the urgency of cases coming to the Emergency and Accident Unitof Al Ain Hospital.Methods Cross section prospective survey was done among 300 patients by usingquestionnaire.Results 75% of patients were males. 64.7% of the cases were non-emergency. 81%of the x-rays were done were normal. 76.3% of the patients were discharged home.Conclusion The was a misuse of the Emergency services at Al Ain Hospital

Project No. 73 (1995)The Prevalence of Depression and its CorrelatesStudent Authors: Khawla Sultan Al Naseri, Nadia Bin Abood Al Bloushi, Alia Moh'd AlDaheriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Hossain, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objective To estimate the prevalence of depression among female medical students,non medical and their matched control from the community using the CES-D scale.Methods The original English version was translated into Arabic and applied to threesamples (medical students, non-medical, and matched sample from the community).The instrument was applied again to a subsample to test its reliability. The SCID wasalso used in the subsample to establish the gold standard which the instrument wascompared with. Socio-Cultural questionnaire in order to explore the risk factorsassociated with depression. The functional structure of the instrument was alsoexamined and the resultant factors were again tested for their ability to discriminatebetween cases and non-cases.Results The internal consistency of the scale was found to be .71. Factor analysisrevealed three factors corresponding to cognitive aspects of depression, generaldepressive factor, and normal affective state. Moderate test retest reliability wasfound, and discriminant functional analysis revealed that the instrument was capablein differentiating between cases and non-cases in over 90% of subjects. Theprevalence of depression was found to be 11.1% in medical students, 8.6% in nonmedicalstudents, and 12.3% among non-students, which shows no significantdifferences. In addition, factors associated with depression were: self-perception ofdepression, feeling the need to contact a psychiatrist, unfavourable life events, usingsleeping pills, the response towards life events, mother loss, practicing religion, andhaving an addictive family member.Conclusion The prevalence of depression among female university students was foundto be within range reported elsewhere. Moreover, the Arabic version of the instrumentwas found to be reliable and valid.

Project No. 74 (1995)Major Causes of Death Among Women of Child Bearing Age in Abu-Dhabi, UAEStudent Authors: Abdulhadi Amer Al HbabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. OyejideAbstract:Objective To identify the major causes of death among females of child-bearing age(15- 45 years).Design Descriptive study.Methods Death certificates filled in the department of preventive medicine Abu Dhabifor the years 1984-1992 were reviewed causes of death were coded using WHOinternational classification of diseases. Proportional mortality ratios for variouscategories of causes of death were calculated.Results and Conclusion The leading causes of death among women were accident andinjury (27.9%), circulatory diseases (15%), neoplasm (12.9%), uro-genital diseases(3.6%), infections (3.3%), respiratory diseases (2.6%), digestive diseases (2.4%),blood disorders (1.2%), endocrine conditions (1.2%) nervous and mental conditions(0.2%), pregnancy related deaths (0.2%). The two common causes of death wereassociated with marital status and age group.

Project No. 75 (1995)Life Style, Behavioural and Psychological Correlates of Hypertension in MiddleAged Men in Abu Dhabi Emirate, UAEStudent Authors: Alawi AlafifiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objective to assess the lifestyle, behavioural and psychological correlates ofhypertension in middle aged men (35-54 years) who presented to the primary healthclinics of Abu Dhabi emirate (Tawam hospital, Al Jimi hospital and Aud Al Toba clinic).Design An analytical cross sectional study of patients presenting with hypertension toprimary health care of Tawam Hospital, Al Jimi hospitals and Aud Al Toba clinic andADCO oil company in Abu Dhabi.Subjects were 96 male controls and 75 male cases (26 UAE, 49 non-UAE), all agedbetween 35- 54 years.Results Analyses showed that increase in anxiety and depression score of youngerhighly educated hypertensive subjects. All hypertensive patients were exposed to thesame anxiety score despite their nationalities (p=0.47). But non-UAE nationals weremore depressed than UAE subjects. (p=0.00009) through the media, clinics(doctorsand nurses) and into working areas of employees. Most of case changed their lifestylehabits (p=0.00004) post diagnosis except for smoking habits (p=0.4502):62% ofcases still recorded high BP (systolic and diastolic >140/90) despite anti hypertensiontreatment.Conclusion Stressful situations, smoking, eating fatty meals, not doing regularexercises and increased salt consumption correlated with hypertension.

Project No. 76 (1995)Relation of Haemoglobin level in First, Second and Third Trimesters toOutcome of PregnancyStudent Authors: Eman Salem M HoussaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives Maternal haemoglobin level was determined as one of many factors thataffect the outcome of pregnancy, in terms of gestational duration and birth weightwhich are good indicator of the newborn’s health. The main aim was to study Hb levelin the first, second and third trimesters in relationship to birth weight and gestationalduration.Methods A prospective study of all births was conducted in Al Cornish Hospital in AbuDhabi. The questionnaire was filled for 153 women who delivered in the periodbetween 25 July to 15 August 1994. Most of study subjects were aged 20- 30 years(64.4%) and 31.4% were UAE nationals.Results In the present study consanguinity rate was 35.3% and was most commonamong the educated women. Only 17% of the women had an illness during pregnancyand low birth weight occurred in 7.2% of all births. The percentage of pregnantwomen with low Hb (

Project No. 77 (1995)Prevalence of Bacteruria in Pregnant Women in Al AinStudent Authors: Sheikha Mohammed Aidrous Al MuzafryFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. G. AbsoodAbstract:Objective Asymptomatic bacteruria is a common during pregnancy. It is important riskfactor for acute pyelonephritis, low birth and prematurity. This study was designed tomeasure the prevalence rate of bacteruria in Al Ain.Methods Total of 163 mothers attending antenatal clinic in Tawam Hospital and Al AinHospital were included in the study.Results Prevalence rate was 8.6%, with 45.5% asymptomatic patients. High bacteruriarate was found in highly educated and working mothers and those in the age group17-20. Suggest this study should be followed up with further studies.

Project No. 78 (1995)Contraception Practice in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Amal Ibrahim Abdullah ShamsanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. Adekulu-John, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To find out contraception practices in Al Ain district.Methods The survey was conducted in Al Ain district on 206 married women visitingTawam Hospital Aud Al-Toba and Al Yahar PHC, between 28th of March to 22nd ofJune.Results and Conclusion 37.3% of the surveyed women were contraceptive users,63.1% were previous users. 49.2% of them aged between 26-36 years, 55.8% werepara 1-5 child (ren). Breast feeding, oral contraceptive pills and IUD were the mostused for child spacing. Drowsiness, nervousness and excessive bleeding were the mostexperienced side effects reported for the use of oral contraceptive pills and IUD, forwhich about 50% of the women sought doctor’s advice. Finally most of the surveyedwomen were highly satisfied with contraceptive use irrespective of the side effects.

Project No. 79 (1996)Causes of UAE National Infant Mortality and Trends over 25 Years Period in AlAin DistrictStudent Authors: Saif Khalfan Mohammed Khalifa Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To identify the trends and causes of infant mortality among UAE nationals inAl Ain district from 1991- 1995 and compare that with other parts of the world.Methods The study was performed in Al Ain city. Data was obtained from departmentof preventive medicine, MOH. All UAE national infant deaths - males and females - forthe years 1971-1995 were selected from death certificates.Results Overall infant mortality rate decreased from 25.1 per 1000 in 1979 to 10.5 per1000 in 1995. Over the past 25 years, prematurity was the most common cause ofinfant mortality (37.2%) followed by infections (26.8%) then congenital malformations(17.5%). From 1985 to 1995 congenital malformations became the second commoncause of infant death followed by infections.Conclusions The most common causes of infant mortality among UAE nationals in thepast 25 years have been prematurity and its complications, infection and congenitalmalformations. There have been significant changes in the rate of infant mortality andin the causes of infant death since 1971. Long term trend in infant mortality shows aremarkable decline in the mortality since 1971. In 1995, the most common causes ofinfant mortality are prematurity, followed by congenital malformations, and infections,whereas in 1971 infections were comprised the second most common cause of infantdeath in Al Ain. The majority of infant deaths occurred in the first week of their liefeand just a small percentage occurred in the post-neonatal period.

Project No. 80 (1996)A study of the knowledge and attitude related to HIV infection and AIDSamong UAE male nationals aged 18-25 yearsStudent Authors: Khalid Mohammed Ali Al MullaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. M. HossainAbstract:Objective To obtain information about knowledge and attitude related to AIDS onEmirati young adult males aged 15-25 years with particular emphasis on itsassociation with travelling abroad.Methods Analytical study in which a confidential, self-administered questionnaire wasdistributed to the study population. The UAE University, a secondary school and publicand private sectors were the settings. 298 randomly selected Emirati men aged 18- 25were included in the study. The participants belonged to one of the following groups:Non- medical students (UAE University), medical students (UAE University) andsecondary school graduates.Results 298 participants answered the questionnaire (94% response rate), from which85% were unmarried and 65% were non- medical students. Participants were aware ofthe association with travelling abroad and sexual activities but less aware that theinfected person can not be identified by appearance. 89% stated that travellers are atgreater risk; the main reason given was sexual activity with many partners. 93%indicated that travelers can protect themselves abroad by avoiding sex. Over 80%requested more information about AIDS, spread in the UAE being the most requested.Regarding the visit to high risk countries, 11% visited, 20% intending and 30% visitedand intending. Medical students showed relatively higher knowledge between marriedand unmarried participants.Conclusion Participants knew that there is an association between AIDS and travellingabroad and sexual activities. However some misconceptions were present which needto be focussed on the future prevention program.

Project No. 81 (1996)Menstrual Symptoms Among UAE University Students and Their Effects onAcademic Activities (2-27 Nov 1996)Student Authors: Salwa Abdulla Al-Suwaidi.Faculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To document the most common menstrual symptoms among UAEUniversity female students, to investigate the effect of menstruation on students’academic activities, and to find out the difference between medical students and otherfaculty students in terms of menstrual symptoms and the effect on their academicactivities.Methods The study was conducted in Al Ain City, UAE. Target population of study wasthe UAE University female students. Study period was 2 to 27 November 1996. Studywas designed to be a cross-sectional study with both descriptive and analyticalcomponents. Selected subjects were asked to fill in a self-administered questionnaire.253 students were subjected to the study, 111 of whom were medical students andthe rest (142) from other faculties.Results 94.1% of the subjects studied were UAE nationals. 43.9% were medicalstudents and 56.1% were other faculty students. Of the subjects only 8.7% weremarried. The mean age of the subjects was 20.7, the mean weight was 56.6kg, themean height was 159.1 cm and the mean body mass index was 22.3. 67.9% of thesubjects studied had regular periods, while 32.4% had irregular periods. 85.4% hadmoderate quantity of blood flow during mestruation, 11.1% had heavy flow and 3.6%scanty quantity. The mean of menarch age was 13 years, the mean of menstrualcycle length was 29 days, and the mean of cycle duration was 6.2 days.Conclusion The most common menstrual symptoms were not different from what wasexpected. menstrual symptoms seem not to significantly impair, or handicap students’academic activities. Some of the differences that were found between medicalstudents and other faculty students, in terms of menstrual symptoms and their effectson academic activities, could all be explained by the effect of the stressful lives ofmedical students. Due to lack of similar studies in the UAE, more studies need to becarried out regarding this topic.

Project No. 82 (1996)First Aid Knowledge in the UAEStudent Authors: Abdulla Al-HassaniFaculty Supervisors: Prof. J. Norman, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To assess the extent of first aid knowledge among different categories ofpopulation in Al Ain City, UAE.Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Al Ain City amongseveral variants of population including nurses, medical and other university students,traffic police and rest of population from 11 May to 12 June 1996.Results The sample studied was 439 (64.2% were male, 35.8% were female). Thebest response was achieved by nurses. They achieve a mean score of 69.3% out of100%. Medical students achieved a mean score of 66.5% with apparent lack ofknowledge in certain conditions concerning ABC management. University studentswere the weakest. They achieved a mean score of only 33.9%. Traffic policeachieved a mean score of 39.05%. Tawam nurses got a mean score of 76.58% whilethat of Al Ain Nurses was 60.85%. The non-medical faculty staff response had a meanscore of 43.33% before the first aid course and 92.5% after they had completed thecourse. Study showed that education level has very slight impact on extent of first aidknowledge among these categories.Conclusion First aid knowledge seems to be largely deficient especially among nonmedicalpeople and that of medical people needs to be improved. It is recommendedto establish an educational program in which all categories of population can attendand build up a reference guide of the first aid basic knowledge.

Project No. 83 (1996)Septicaemia in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (Tawam Hospital NICU - April1995-March 1996)Student Authors: Fayeza Ahmed Mohammed Al RaisFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives To determine the epidemiology and outcome of sepsis neonatrum in one ofUAE neonatal intensive care units [Tawam Hospital NICU, April 1995- March 1996].Methods This is a case control study on septicemia in neonatal ICU. Variables for thestudy included sex, birth weight, gestational age and mode of delivery. Data wasanalyzed using Chi square test, Fisher’s test, t test and the Wilcoxon Rank Sum W testwhere appropriate were used.Results During one year 21(13.9%) of the index NICU admissions had sepsisneonatrum with 66.7% survivors and 33.3% deaths. 57.1% of the deaths occurredamong unhealthy premature babies and the rest 42.9% was among babies withcongenital anomalies and syndromes. Deaths were mostly due to renal failure andmulti organ failure. Coagulase negative staphylococci accounted for 66.7% of thecases with the rest of the pathogens (mostly gram-negative bacteria) beingnosocomial as well. Endotracheal tubes were the most common portal of entry(42.9%)followed by umbilical catheters and intravenous lines. Identified risk factors foracquision of sepsis in this study were: intrpartum maternal fever and leukocytosis; lowbirth weight (

Project No. 84 (1996)Knowledge and Attitude of HIV Infection Among Young Emirati Males Aged20-40 YearsStudent Authors: Khalid Salem Al-SaaediFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. M. HossainAbstract:Objectives Obtain knowledge and attitude information related to HIV infection amongyoung Emarati males aged 20-40 years.Methods Descriptive cross-sectional study in which a confidential self-administeredquestionnaire was distributed to the study population. Setting was UAE University,medical school and public sectors where nationals are employed like police,municipality and ministry of health. 264 Emarati men aged 20-40 were included in thestudy including medical students and doctors in the library, cafeteria, hostel restaurantand people representing the UAE working population from the Police Department,Municipality and Ministry of Health. The general knowledge and attitude of thepopulation toward HIV infections analyzed in terms of three categories; no knowledge,some knowledge and good knowledge.Results 264 out of 320 subjects answered the questionnaire (82.5% response rate),64% of them were not married and 33% married and the rest divorced (3%). 66.7%of the subjects were students and the rest are employees of public sectors.Participants were aware of the associations between traveling abroad, prostitution andsexual activity with HIV infections but were less aware of the signs and symptoms ofthe disease. Medical students and doctors considered themselves at a higher risk ofHIV infection (X2=14.5, p

Project No. 85 (1996)Thrombolysis in Acute Myocardial InfarctionStudent Authors: Aisha Mattar Al Noubi Mohammed Al MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the number of thrombolysed patients and the effect of earlythrombolysis on the outcome of the AMI phase.Methods Retrospective cross-sectional analytic study at Al Ain Hospital in UAEinvolving 134 patients with AMI for period 1 January to 31 December 1994.Results The majority of the patients were male (91.8%). Indians (32.1%), Pakistanis(17.2%) and Bangladeshis (14.2%) were the commonest nationalities. Manualworkers (22.4%) and professionals (17.9%) were the commonest occupations. 19.4%were known to be married. Relatively high percentage were smokers (66.4%), 21.6%had hypertension, 11.2% had diabetes mellitus, 25.6% had high cholesterol level and27.42 had high triglycerides level. 77.6% were thrombolysed and 52.9% of themwere stable. In the thrombolysed group, 1.9% died while 16.7% died in the groupwithout thrombolysis. 33.3% of unthrombolysed patients had reduced left ventriclefunction while in the other group were 7.7%. 5.8% had bleeding as a complication ofthrombolysis and 7.7% had hypotension.Conclusion The earlier the thrombolysis, the better the prognosis. Most of death fromAMI occur in the first few hours. Therefore, early presentation to the hospital andrapid diagnosis would make the benefit of thrombolytic therapy available for a largerpercentage of patients. The thrombolysis should be considered in every patientespecially when the benefit outcomes the complications.

Project No. 86 (1996)Diagnostic Value of White Blood Cells Count in Acute AppendicitisStudent Authors: Mouza Hassan Mohammed Obeid Al SuwaidiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. J. Brebner, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective The determine the diagnostic value of an elevated white blood cell count(WBCC) in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.Design This is a retrospective descriptive study.Setting Medical records in Al Ain Hospital.Subjects The target population was all adult patients (over the age of 12) who wereadmitted to the surgical ward, Al Ain Hospital between 1st of january1995 to 31st ofJune 1995 with a provisional diagnosis of acute appendicitis.Results A total of 187 patients were admitted with a provisional diagnosis of acuteappendicitis. Surgery was performed in 109 cases (58.3%) with a negativeappendicitis rate of 4.6% (86 men and 23 women). 67 (72%) of patients have WBCCmore than 13.01 ´109/L. When the blood count is 4.00- 8.00´109/L it is 10%sensitive for appendicitis while it is 23% sensitive when the WBCC is 8.00-13.00´109/L and it is 67% sensitive when the WBCC is more than 13.00´109/L. 37(64.9%). Patients who presented with 12-24 hours duration of pain had WBCC morethan 13.00´109/L.Conclusion Although as the WBCC increases the sensitivity to acute appendicitisincreases, WBCC is not diagnostic of acute appendicitis because it has low specificityand it can be used to aid the diagnosis. The surgeon’s skills are still needed toestablish the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Project No. 87 (1996)Childhood Home Accidents and Injuries at Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Afra Saeed Al SharyaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objective To determine the types of accidents and injuries at home and the associatedrisk factors.Methods Cross sectional study was conducted in Al Ain city. All trauma pediatricgroups aged (0-14) were selected during 2nd November to 4th December 1996 over aperiod of 5 years.Results The most common types of injuries among children in Al Ain were superficialinjuries 80(26.5%), penetrating wounds 74 (14.6%), fire 38(12.6%), chemical burns(1.7%), fractures 61(20.2%), other type of injuries 44(14.6%). Majority of accidentsoccurred in the afternoon 104 (34.4%). Most of the accidents occurred in the garden68(22.5%). In most of the cases the child was playing with his sibling 122(40.4%). Inmost cases the accidents was discovered immediately 237(78.5%). Limb injury wasthe most common site of injury 157 (52%), followed by head and neck injuries 90(29.8%). In a large number of the cases the injuries were mild 145 (48%). In thevast majority of the accidents the hospitalization period was only a few hours 233(77.2%). First aid was performed in a large number of cases 227 (75.2%).Conclusion Childhood injuires represent a significant public health problem in Al AinDistrict. It is important to have an intensive public education to sensitize thepopulation to safety procedure. This will reduce the incidence and minimize thesocioeconomic burden incurred in the management of the injured child.

Project No. 88 (1996)The Knowledge, Atttitude and Practice of Preparatory School ChildrenTowards Dental Health in Abu Dhabi and Al AinStudent Authors: Iman AhmedFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To determine the knowledge, attitude and practice of preparatory schoolchildren towards dental health and if these were influenced by age, sex, stage,nationality, father’s occupation and the educational level of the women as well as thefamily income.Methods Preparatory school children of governmental and private schools wereselected for this cross sectional study. Multistage sampling technique was performed.Data was collected in a pre-tested questionnaire. 521 subjects were recruited in thisstudy. This study was conducted in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain over a 5 weeks period in1996.Results This study involved 521 school children whose age ranged from 11- 18. Ingeneral both students of Al Ain and Abu Dhabi had a good general knowledge aboutdental health. About 91% knew about fluoride and 82% knew its benefits. Theeducational level of mothers had a highly positive significant influence on theknowledge of Al Ain students while the father’s occupation influenced the knowledge ofAbu Dhabi students positively. Those students had a fairly good attitude towardsdental health that was significantly influenced by the level of the knowledge. Inaddition 83% of students enjoyed brushing their teeth and more than 55% likedvisiting the dentist. The majority of students used the toothbrush and toothpaste incleaning their teeth and a very slight percentage would consider the dental floss.Conclusion Knowledge of dental health should be improved further among schoolchildren. Therefore more efforts from the educational and health professionals areneeded to improve the knowledge and to explore the ways of improving the practice ofdental hygiene in reducing the risk of oral diseases.

Project No. 89 (1996)An Analytical Study of Hospitalized Traffic Accidents in Al AinStudent Authors: Mansour Bin Tahnoun Al-NahayanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. O. LloydAbstract:Objective To review the sources of the problem of road traffic accident, to discuss themagnitude of RTA in Al Ain - UAE and to compare the situation with that of some Gulfand developed countries.Methods Analysis was based on patient admissions into the main referral central andteaching hospitals, categorizing RTA trauma. Only patients presenting alive andtreated inpatients were considered. Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals and directorate oftraffic department were the settings. All RTA traumas who were seen at TawamHospital, during 1992- 1995, and Al Ain Hospital, during 1992-1993, were thesubjects.Main outcome measures Morbidity associated with the RTA.Results Three- fourths of all patients were under 35 years of age (75%). The greatmajority of the victims were males (84%). Asian nationals comprised over 35% andUAE nationals formed 30%. It is noteworthy that over 40% suffered from head andneck injuries.Conclusion RTA casualties represented a significant public health problem and a majorhealth problem.Recommendation A persistent need is there for a substantial and prompt increase inthe provision of health educational programs aiming to reduce the frequency andmagnitude of RTA in Al-Ain.

Project No. 90 (1996)Cancer Trends during 15 years (1980- 1995) in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Sherena Ahmed Khalifa Al YousefFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. O. LloydAbstract:Objectives To investigate the distribution of the different types of cancer and theirassociations with sex, nationality and age and to compare that with findings fromother studies conducted in the Middle East countries. Also to identify the possible riskfactors and recommendations for further future studies.Design Longitudinal descriptive study in Al Ain Hospital.Subjects All cancer cases occurred during a period of 15 years (1980- 1995), all ages,genders and nationalities.Setting Histo-pathological records of pathology department in Al Ain Hospital.Results The cancer trend during the last 15 years, from 1980 to 1995, was upward.Out of 595 patients 14.3% were UAE nationals and 85.7% were non-UAE nationals.The majority of patients were males (60%) while 40% were females. Cancer found tobe the most common among patients above 50 years (37%) and between 31- 40years (29.4%). Cancer distribution by organ was breast (11.9%), GI (10.4%), rectum(9.4%), lymphoma (9.4%), skin (8.7%), lungs (5.5%), thyroid (5%), esophagus(4.4%) and ovary and endometrium (4.2%). According to ICD-10 organ grouping, thecommonest cancers were GI (27.7%), breast cancer (11.9%), gynecological (9.7%),respiratory and upper airway (9.6%), lymphoma (9.4%), skin (8.7%), renal pelvis(7.6%) and liver (6.7%). While among females the commonest cancers were breast(28%), gynecological (24.4%), GI (18.1%) and thyroid (7.6%). The commonesttumor among patients between 14 years was the lymphoma while among other groupsG was the commonest.Conclusion In Al Ain Hospital from 1980- 1995, out of 595 cancer cases 85 (14.3%)were UAE nationality, the rest were expatriates. Cancer has a double humpdemographical distribution between 31-40 years old and above 50 years. Distributionof cancer shows a slight male predominance. In all age group GI cancer was thecommonest except in children, below 14 years, where old lymphoma was the mostcommon.

Project No. 91 (1996)Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate Among Expatriates Undergoing HealthExamination at the Department of Preventive Medicine, Al AinStudent Authors: Shaikha Ali Al OwaisFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To assess the effects of some factors, which may predispose to thedevelopment of hypertension and find out how these could affect normal person’sblood pressure and pulse rates. The factors studied include smoking, body mass indexand occupation. In addition I wanted to examine if there is any difference between BPand PR before and after the interview among a group of expatriates.Methods This is a prospective descriptive study. I have interviewed 100 people andhave measured their BP, PR, weights and heights. The group of people have presentedto the preventive medicine department in Al Ain district in UAE to do some tests forhealth fitness certificates which prove that they are free from serious infectiousdiseases thus will be permitted to remain in the UAE and to continue in their jobs.Results Smokers tend to have lower systolic blood pressure and pulse rate after theinterview than non smokers. There is significant correlation between BMI and bloodpressure. Skilled males tend to have higher blood pressure and pulse rate thanunskilled males. Skilled males tend to have higher blood pressure and pulse rate thanunskilled males. Skilled females tend to have slightly higher blood pressure thanunskilled females. On the other hand, unskilled females have higher pulse rates thanskilled females.Conclusions Nature of job affects the blood pressure and puse rate significantly.Being smoker, although it is a risk factor of hypertension, seems to lead to have lowerBP and PR. The higher BMI the subject has, the higher the BP and PR will be. There isno difference in the BP, PR before and after the interview.

Project No. 92 (1996)Provision of Healthcare in the United Arab Emirates with Management ofAsthmaStudent Authors: Gairn W. Davidson (Final Year Medical Student from University ofAberdeen)Faculty Supervisors: Dr. C. OyejideAbstract:Objectives To investigate the various elements behind the Health Service in the UAE.To investigate Management of Asthma in the community and hopital settings of Al AinCity, UAE.Methods Literature review including Ministry of Health Publications. Formal interviewsand informal discussions with various Medical Personnel. Review of Journal Articlesincluding those pertaining to the UAE and Gulf areas. Distribution of a sixteen partQuestionnaire to local General Practitioners. Questions cover various aspects ofAsthma and its management. A predetermined Checklist of important aspects ofHospital management completed at Tawam Hospital, Al Ain through observation ofclinical practice and questioning of medical staff.Results Management of Asthma is not as organized in the UAE as it is in the UK.There appear to be a few alarming lapses in technique: one example of slackness isthe tendency to repeatedly send patients home from the ER after brief courses oftreatment before eventually admitting them anyway. Apart from this, the treatmentof acute attacks is basically the same as in the UK, although the facilities for doing somay vary between hospitals. Drug principles are becoming more up to date as the useof Theophylline declines and a switch from oral to inhaled drug preparations begins inthe treatment of the very young. The message that Cromoglycate is better thanContinuous Salbutamol is slowly getting through.Conclusion The key to asthma management, as has been continually stressed, isthrough greater use of the Primary Healthcare sector within which should bedeveloped a Family Doctor service. This would free the hospital clinics of considerableburden and also help to quieten the Emergency rooms, for not only asthmamanagment would be affected by this switch in provision of care. Asthmamanagement requires a coordinated approach from a number of people – not 5 or 10minutes in a PHC consulting room. Education about the condition, training withinhalers and peak flow meters, recognition of provoking factors and plan foremergencies.

Project No. 93 (1996)Retrospective Study of Mammograms in Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals, Al Ain,UAEStudent Authors: Kalthoom Mohammed Ali HussanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives To study all cases that had mammogram examination either for diagnosticor screening purposes and to determine the number of positive and negative casesand relate them to age and nationality. Also to compare the mammogram results withhistopathological results.Design Retrospective study from the medical records in Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals.Setting Medical records of Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals.Subjects All records of patients who had mammogram examination, from December1994 to December 1995, as screening and diagnostic procedure, in Tawam and Al Ainhospitals were included in this study. Outs of 400 patients’ records 322 were reviewed.The mean age was 40.8 years and the standard deviation was 10.8 years.Results The study showed that 146 (45.3%) were UAE and 176 (54.7%) were non-UAE. The highest age group was less than 40 years, representing 49.4%. The reasonfor mammograms were 68% for diagnostic and 32% for screening in which thedifference between UAE women and non UAE women for both screening and diagnosticmammograms was very significant (p

Project No. 94 (1996)Attitude and Knowledge of Patients to Imaging Techniques in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Sumayah Abdullah Al MarzouqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To demonstrate the knowledge and attitude of patients toward theradiology department in Al Ain Hospital. To assess the role of physician in patient’spreparation for radiological examination. To define the role of technician in patient’sphysical and psychological preparation. To assess the relationship between the lengthof waiting and their decision to carry on with the examination.Methods The study was conducted in radiology department waiting rooms in Al AinHospital. The target population was patients who attended their appointments forbarium meal enema, urography, CT scan and U/S. A standardized questionnaire wasused to interview each patient during waiting. The sample size was 100.Results Doctors provided the patients with reasons of their investigations for 90% ofCT patients, 88.7%and 84.6% of U/S and urography patients respectively. WhileBarium Meal 77.8% and Barium Enema 50% fully aware and 33.3% were partiallyaware about the reasons. Regarding doctors discussion of the preparation the resultswere opposite to that of reasons discussion. However 85% of patients preferreddoctors as source of their information about the preparation. The technician told thepreparation for most Barium meal, enema and urography patients, but about 50% ofCT and U/S patients denied receiving that information. Out of 46 patients with worriesonly one received reassurance from the staff without asking for it, however 6 soughtreassurance from the staff in whom 33.3% felt better, 50% partially got better and16.7% didn’t feel better at all.Conclusion Patients knowledge about the preparation came mainly from thetechnician, while the reasons for their investigation from the physician. Also techniciandid not provide full psychological support for patients with worries. Moreover U/Swaiting area created discomfort for the patients.In general waiting was acceptable tothe patients. Finally majority of the patients were pre determined to comply with theirappointment before coming to the hospital.

Project No. 95 (1996)Acute Abdominal Pain Characteristics and Aetiology Among Emergency UnitPatients at Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Hanan Mohammed Ali Jawas, Aisha Darwish Saeed Al KhumeiryFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective This study evaluates the characteristics and etiology of acute abdominal painamong emergency unit patients in Al Ain Hospital.Methods A retrospective review was done for the records of the patients admittedduring June and November 1997 which indicate mainly acute appendicitis.Results Of 756 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 684 were discharged from theemergency unit, 33 were admitted without subsequent operation, and 35 wereadmitted and had an operation during hospitalization. Only 0.8% patients werereadmitted for recurrent abdominal pain. Generalized abdominal pain was the mostcommon complaint among 19.9% of patients and 10% presented with right iliac fossapain, which indicate mainly acute appendicitis. Out of 217 UAE patients, NSAP werefound to be in 38.2% patients and 3.7% complained of acute appendicitis. Of 91patients 41.7% of GP diagnosis were matching surgical diagnosis regarding NSAP and77.1% were correct regarding acute appendicitis.Conclusion Acute abdominal pain is one of the commonest presentation to theemergency unit. Accurate diagnosis and treatment can prevent the consequences.

Project No. 96 (1996)Peptic Ulcer Perforation and BleedingStudent Authors: Mariam Khalifa Malifi Al ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To identify the factors associated with perforation and bleeding.Methods A retrospective descriptive study using Al Ain hospital medical records. Thetarget population was adult patients admitted to Al Ain hospital with the diagnosis ofpeptic ulcer perforation and bleeding between 1991-1996 and 1992-1996 respectively.Results A total of 160 patients, 100 patients with perforated peptic ulcer and 60patients with bleeding peptic ulcers. Duodenal was the common site of bothcomplications (93.8%). Pain was the commonest symptomatology. Age, sex,nationality, occupation, season, smoking, alcohol, drugs and stress were commonassociated factors. Food and drink were aggravating and relieving factors for somepatients. All perforated ulcers required surgical procedure (65%). Most of bleedingulcers required medical procedure (35%).Conclusion Duodenal ulcers were more complicated than gastric ulcers.Sociodemographic features were not associated factors. Pain was common symptom.Surgery was required for perforation where medical treatment was required forbleeding ulcers.

Project No. 97 (1996)Accidents and Injuries Among Children in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Naeema Eid Kalfan Al-SuweidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the patterns of accidents and injuries among children (0-14years) in Al Ain Hospital in the UAE.Methods A descriptive retrospective study was conducted in emergency room (ER) inAl Ain hospital. All trauma paediatric patients age group (0-!4 years) were selectedduring 6 month period (January-June 1994).Results The overall number of paediatric trauma attended the ER in Al-Ain hospitalwere 8207 (70.5% were males, 29.5% were females). Most patients attended at theevening time (56%). The most frequent type of trauma was contusion (40.2%). Themost common cause was falling (13.7%). The most leading cause for admission waspoisoning (41%). The most common cause of trauma below 4 years were falling, bluntand burn while above 4 years were RTA, fight and sports. The sites of injury forchildren below 4 years were commonly in head, neck and trunk, while for above 4years were in upper and lower limbs.Conclusion Childhood injuries represent a significant health problem and a majorhealth hazard leading to morbidity and mortality throughout the world.Recommendations It is recommended that a health educational program should beestablished to reduce the incidence of child trauma.

Project No. 98 (1996)Major Causes of Accidental Mortality among Children Aged 0-14 Years in Al-Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Khalifa Moh'd Al SamanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objective To identify the major causes of accidental mortality among children age 0-14years old in Al Ain district for the years 1980-1995.Methods This is a retrospective, descriptive study done at the preventive medicinedepartment in Al Ain district. The target population was all children aged 0-14 years,who died from accident and trauma during the years 1980-1995.Results 301 children from different nationalities died from accidents in Al Ain from1980- 1995 (69.4% were males and 30.6% were females). UAE and other Arabsrepresented the majority of deaths (57.8%, 18.9% respectively). Most of the mortalityoccurred in the age groups 1-4 years (28.6%) and 5-8 years (27.2%). Head and neckinjuries were the major mechanism of death (57.5%) followed by burns (13.3%) andfractures (10.6%). The major causes of accidental deaths were: RTA (65.1%),followed by drowning (15.6%) and burns (8.0%). The year 1998 witnessed thehighest percentage of deaths (9.6%) and February (12.6%) represented the majormonth in number of accidental death.Conclusion Childhood injuries represent a significant public health problem and amajor health hazard leading to high morbidity and mortality in Al Ain.Recommendation Preventive efforts should give special attention to the causes ofaccidental death in children and health education programs should aim to educatefamilies to protect their children from dangerous situation that lead to their accidentaldeath.

Project No. 99 (1996)Actual Causes of Death in Al Ain: the Past and the PresentStudent Authors: Humaid Abdulla Al-AfreetFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. H.H. HossainAbstract:Objective The ten causes of mortality in Al Ain in the past (25 years ago) and thepresent were compared. Infant mortality was also compared.Methods This was done by comparing death register records of the past (1969-72) andthe present (1995) at the preventive medicine department , MOH, Al Ain.Results In the past, infectious diseases and obstetric-related conditions were theleading causes of mortality, while now accidents and cardiovascular diseases are theleading causes. In the past, infant mortality rate was high, while now the age groupabove 65 years are the leading one in mortality. In the past, infectious andprematurity were major causes of infant mortality, while now it is congenitalanomalies.Conclusion These changes have reflected a rapid socio-economic development andmodern health systems. Renewed efforts are needed to prevent accidents and changesin lifestyle associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Project No. 100 (1996)Utilization of X-ray Examination at Tawam Hospital (5th October-23rdOctober)Student Authors: Samia KhouriFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the common types of X- ray usage to investigate themechanism of X-ray department usage and X-rays requests by departments and toidentify the reasons for X- ray.Design This is a retrospective study.Setting Medical records at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain Medical district.Subjects A random sample of all patients treated at Tawam Hospital during the period1986- 1996.Results The X-ray department was highly utilized by General Practitioners (GP) 39.5%followed by Emergency Room (ER) 17.5%.Recommendations Reasons for requesting or not requesting X-ray examinationsshould be noted in the patients’ charts as a measure to protect doctors. Furtherstudies are recommended to be carried out.

Project No. 101 (1996)Knowledge and Attitude Towards Depression Among UAE NationalsStudent Authors: Afra Saeed Al-MahmoudiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. G.A. Absood, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective The knowledge and attitude of 158 local people aged between 16-65 in AlAin city about depression was evaluated.Methods Subjects were selected by simple random sampling from both female andmale’s waiting rooms at the general outpatient clinics of Tawam Hospital. Data werecollected by personal interviews.Results Regarding knowledge: 65.2% were familiar with depression concept incontrast to 34.8% who did not hear about it. The majority of those who were familiarwith depression could differentiate it from normal mood disturbance. About 54.4%related depression to demons, 48.5% considered depression is more common infemales. Regarding the symptoms of depression, only 16.5% mentioned a weight lossin contrast to 90.3% who mentioned a weight gain. The attitude was significantlybetter among those who had a personal experience. The majority feels sympathystrongly disagree to the idea of isolation.Conclusion In general, knowledge of the respondents appears to be limited. Aneducational program for provision of information about depression should beorganized.

Project No. 102 (1996)The Prevalence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Symptoms Among PrimarySchool Children in Sharjah, UAEStudent Authors: Amal B-HaroonFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of ADH symptoms among primary schoolchildren in Sharjah, UAE. To examine the relationship between ADH symptoms and theselected variables.Methods A cross sectional study was conducted in the UAE. The population was theprimary school children in Sharjah, UAE. We administered Conner’s teacherquestionnaire following the multistage stratified sampling technique. A total of 1110questionnaire was filled by the teachers of each surveyed school. The response ratewas 92.5%.Results The prevalence of children with deviance score is 29.7% in the generalpopulation. The prevalence of ADH symptoms was significantly associated with gender(boys 18.3%, girls 11.4%), academic performance (p=0.0003) and being the raisedby a single parent. Other family factors such as parent’s level of education, parent’snationality, family monthly income, multiple marriages in parents, parents relationshipwere not significant differences.Conclusion The prevalence of ADH symptoms is surprisingly high which reflect the fastdevelopment in the last 25 years. A great attention should be paid toward thepsychiatric problems among children. As well as further studies are needed.

Project No. 103 (1996)Morbidity and Outcome of Low Back Surgery in Tawam HospitalStudent Authors: Amna Ahmed Al-MarzouqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Prof. B. Ljunggren, Dr. S. SharmaAbstract:Objectives Low back pain, one of the most common ailments known to man, presentsto the neurosurgeon after failed conservative treatment, often with major associatedmorbidity. This study investigated the outcome of decompressive lumbar disc surgeryamong 86 patients at Tawam Hospital, UAE (1991-1996).Results The patients (78% males, 22% females) were aged 15-70 years with a meanof 41 years. Asians formed the majority (42%). Sciatia (87%) was the most frequentclinical feature associated with back pain and disc herniation was frequent at the L4/5level. Nerve root compression or congestion was present in 54%. More than 75% ofpatients recovered completely after surgery and this group tended to be associatedwith younger age and manual occupation. The remaining cases could not be expectedto recover because they included those with severe disability and morbidity, e.g.sphincter disturbances, assisted walking and bedridden state.Conclusion The excellent results were similar to those described elsewhere and werevirtually free of serious pre-operative complications. This emphasizes the importanceof a competent and experienced neurological team.

Project No. 104 (1996)Differences in Anthropometric Measurements and Systolic and Diastolic BloodPressure in Women of Different Ethnicity in Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Maryam Obeid Al ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective To assess the association between body shape and cardiovascular diseaserisk factors by examining the inter relationship between anthropometricmeasurements and cardiovascular risk factors (systolic and diastolic blood pressure)among heterogeneous UAE population that provides an opportunity to study ethnicdifferences in fat distribution.Methods This cross sectional analytical study was conducted in Al Ain city. The targetpopulation was UAE nationals, white and black Arabs and Indian women. Aquestionnaire was administered by the investigator and this includes details about age,nationality, occupation, education, monthly expenditure, marital state, number ofchildren, contraception, drinking coffee or tea, cooking oil, fat foods, physical activityand family medical history, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and anthropometricmeasurements including weight, height, body mass index, subcapsular skin foldthickness, triceps skin fold thickness, subcapsular triceps ratio, waist and hipcircumference, and waist- hip ratio were measured for each subject.Results 300 were included in the study. Age and most of the anthropometric variableswere significantly (p

Project No. 105 (1997)Prevalence of Asthma among Ras Al Khaimah Primary School Children Aged6-13Student Authors: Alia Obaid MohammedFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. Bener, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To find out the prevalence of asthma and to assess the causes of asthmaspecially the environmental and genetic factors among Ras Al Khaimah school childrenaged 6 - 13 in UAE.MethodsA self-administered questionnaire on asthma risk factors symptoms and treatment wasdistributed to the school children to be completed by their parents and returned toschool. Six government primary schools 3 boys and 3 girls schools in both urban andrural areas in Ras Al Khaimah. Main outcome measures The prevalence of asthmaamong Ras Al Khaimah primary school children and the main risk factors for thedevelopment of asthma.Results The prevalence rate was 9.5% among primary school children aged 6 - 13years, which was 31 asthmatic children out of 328 children. The prevalence washigher in boys than in girls with a ratio of 3: 1, this difference was not statisticallysignificant. 45.5% of asthmatic children were diagnosed as asthmatic during the firstyear of life. The parental history of asthma was significantly associated with childhoodasthma, and about 22.6% of asthmatic children had either an asthmatic father ormother. Having plants inside the home was also significantly associated with asthma.Conclusion This study needs to be spread to include all other Emirates, to assess theinfluence of the genetic and environmental factors on asthma, and it has to berepeated in a few years to assess the progression of the prevalence.

Project No. 106 (1997)Prevalence of Headache and Migraine among adults in Al-AinStudent Authors: Saif Mohammad Al KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To describe the epidemiology of headache and migraine in the adultpopulation of Al Ain.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at Primary Health Care clinics, andHigher Colleges of Technology and the University Students Hostel. Subjects includedall adults over age of 15 years, of both gender and all nationalities who were living inAl Ain during the period 17 May to 10 June 1997.Results Overall prevalence rate of headache was 74.8%, 64.1% in males and 83.8%in females (P

Project No. 107 (1997)Neonatal Mortality Among Babies Managed by the Special Care Baby Unit at AlAin Hospital (1992-1996)Student Authors: Abdulla Khadem Al GhaithiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. J. Brebner, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the neonatal mortality rate, causes of neonatal death andneonatal mortality risk factors at Al Ain Hospital.Methods A retrospective study was conducted on all live-born infants at Al AinHospital. The study period was 5 years from 1992-1996 and the files of the 153expired babies and their mothers were carefully studied.Results The NNMR was found to decline through the period of study with an averageof 6.91/1000 births. Prematurity (40.5%), congenital malformations (29.4%) andrespiratory disorders such as RDS, asphyxia and meconium aspiration (13.7%) werefound to be the most common causes of neonatal mortality. Teenage pregnancy, highmaternal age, nulliparity and consanguinity were found to be risk factors of neonatalmortality, while ante natal care provided was found not to relate neonatal mortality.Conclusion The reduced NNMR at Al Ain Hospital which compared favorably with otherstudies, suggest good obstetric and neonatal care is provided at the UAE. High numberof deaths among preterm babies was attributed to standards of obstetric and neonatalcare while increased number of deaths due to congenital malformations were found torelate to increased consanguinity and inadequate ante natal care related to geneticevaluation among high risk pregnancies.

Project No. 108 (1997)The Health Effects of the Overhead Power Lines on the UAE University FemaleStudents - A Case Control StudyStudent Authors: Moza Hilal Al KuwaitiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the effect of electrical magnetic fields (EMFs) of the overheadpower lines on aspects of health status among students in the UAE University hostels.Methods A case control study was performed among randomly selected students in theUAE University hostels. 600 self-administered questionnaires were distributed amongthose students in both hostels but 500 students participated in the study and gavetheir responses. Then followed by measurement of the electrical magnetic field in bothhostels.Results There were very high significant differences in sleeping and mental disordersbetween the cases and controls where as no significant difference of headache andfrequency of getting illness between them. The students in both hostels related thecauses to using computer., mobile phone, driving cars, diet and water in the hostels.But most of the students in Markhania related the cause to the EMFs of the overloadpower lines.Conclusion There was positive relationship between the EMFs of the overhead powerlines and health problems such as sleeping and mental disorders.

Project No. 109 (1997)The Prevalence and Causes of Hearing Loss Among Children in TawamHospitalStudent Authors: Rowaya Ali Al DhaheriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of hearing loss and association with differentear problems among UAE children who have been evaluated by audiometry in TawamHospital.Methods A descriptive retrospective study. Data of 92 children (0-2 years) evaluatedby audiometry were collected from medical records.Results The prevalence rate of hearing loss among referred children was 52.17%.Prevalence of conductive hearing loss was 72.9%. Commonest causes of conductivehearing loss was middle ear effusion (chronic otitis media). Children with syndromichearing loss (presence of other associated conditions) had more of acquired middleear conditions than of congenital ear conditions as a cause of their deafness. Theoutcome of the management was good in 47.9% of the deaf children. Acquired middleear conditions had good outcome whereas congenital ear condition (cong.sensorineural deafness) had poor outcome.Conclusion Middle ear infection is the commonest cause of referral to ENT clinic and itis the commonest cause of hearing loss among these children. It is a treatablecondition with good outcome if it is detected early before deafness and languageproblems happen.

Project No. 110 (1997)Cases of Congenital Abnormalities during 1994-1996 in Al Corniche Hospital,Abu Dhabi, UAEStudent Authors: Mohammed Al MarzouqiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Prof. A. Bener, Prof. J. Brebner, Prof. L.GazaliAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence and the pattern of congenital abnormalities inAl Corniche Hospital, Abu Dhabi during the period from January 1994 until December1996.Methods This is a descriptive retrospective study.Results The prevalence of congenital abnormalities per 1000 births were 18.5, 15.7and 12.1 during 1994, 1995 1996 respectively. It also showed that the major systemsaffected in 1994 were musculo- skeletal system (17.1/1000 births), gastrointestinal(12/1000 births) and cardiovascular system (10.8/1000 births). In 1995 three affectedsystems were cardiovascular system (17.4/1000 births), gastrointestinal system(16.7/1000 births) and chromosomal (12.9/1000 births). Finally the top three affectedsystems in 1996 were musculoskeletal system (19.6/1000births) and cardiovascularsystem (13.7/1000 births).Conclusion The study revealed that there were 392 cases of congenital abnormalitieswith a prevalence of 15.4/1000 birth during this period. This study found that theprevalence of congenital abnormalities has been in decline through the past threeyears. This project found that there is a close relationship between increase inmaternal age and parity in one hand and the congenital abnormalities in the otherhand. More study is needed in this field.

Project No. 111 (1997)Knowledge and Attitude of People towards Organ donation in the UAEStudent Authors: Khalil Irahim Al-MansouriFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:Objective To assess the community knowledge and attitude towards organ donation atthe selected Emirates in the United Arab Emirates.Methods A cross sectional prospective study was carried out in 5 different Emiratesand this included hospitals, high secondary schools, University students and averagefamilies in previous Emirates. 500 subjects within the age group (17-65) were taken.Results 36.6% of the study subjects were willing to donate, while 63.4% were notwilling to donate. Females were more willing to donate than males (61.2%). Fear ofoperations, inadequate knowledge about organ donation and fear of death were themost common reasonable causes given by the study subjects. It was found thatpeople who were willing to donate had more favorable attitudes than people who werenot willing to donate, but there was no statistically significant differences betweenpeople who were willing to donate and those who were not in knowledge.Conclusion This study showed that people should not be blamed of willing toparticipate in organ donation, but the health system and health education providersare to be blamed. A more effective approach should be tried regarding healtheducation programs

Project No. 112 (1997)Eye Disease Among Diabetic Patients Seen in Dubai and SharjahStudent Authors: Amal Ahmed Khalfan Al SuwaidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the relationships between diabetes and eye diseases andvisual deterioration with type of DM associated risk factors and other associateddisease.Methods Prospective study and historical prospective study to determine the outcomeof visual acuity. Data was collected from the records of diabetic patients who attendedthe laser room in Dubai and Sharjah Hospitals. Fungus pictures were taken. The totalnumber of patients was 55 (33 were studied to determine visual deterioration).Results Higher odds ratios of older age, higher triglyceride and hypertension wereassociated with proliferated diabetic retinopathy. Contracts was more frequent in olderpatients with type 2 DM visual impairment of DM and higher level of cholesterol andtriglyceride. Females had more severe visual deterioration.Conclusion More studies about the incidence of diabetic retinopathy associated Rickfactors are needed in the Emirates. In the mean time better education should beprovided to diabetic patients about diabetic complications and the importance ofscreening the eyes to prevent visual loss. We need more aggressive and earliertreatment to delay the progression of DR.

Project No. 113 (1997)Assessment of Health Status of Middle Aged Elderly Subjects in Al-Ain (AComparison Between Rural and Urban)Student Authors: Hanan N. Al-ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To examine and compare functional health status (i.e. physical and mentalhealth) between urban and rural middle aged and elderly UAE nationals in Al AinDistrict.Methods A self-administered questionnaire on mental and physical health includingLife Satisfaction Index (LSI) and scale of Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression (SAD)was administered to 319 urban and 86 rural subjects aged 45 years and over living inAl Ain district.Results No differences in health status existed between rural and urban middle-agedand elderly subjects. The relationships between prevalence of disability and both ageand gender were not statistically significant among subjects of both groups. Data onprevalence of health problems was sought out to explore the relationships betweenhealth and mental health determined by anxiety and depression and life satisfaction.Prevalence of chronic health problems was correlated significantly with SAD scoresamong rural (r=0.26, p=0.01) and urban (r=0.28, p=0.000) subjects and LSI scoresamong rural (r=-0.37, p=0.001) and urban (r=-0.14, p=0.009) subjects.Conclusion These findings emphasize the importance of aspects of physical health asdeterminants of psychological well-being among middle-aged and elderly in bothgroups. Information regarding health status in the UAE is scarce. Specific studies onthis subject are needed to anticipate the future health needs in the country.

Project No. 114 (1997)Malaria Pattern in Al Ain Medical District during 1996Student Authors: Yousef Al TaireFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To determine the pattern of malaria cases in Al Ain in 1996 including thesocio-demographic factors of malaria cases such as age, sex and nationality. Also todetermine the various species of malaria parasite and resistant strains. To describe theseasonal variation in 1996 and incidence rate of malaria in Al Ain 1990- 1996.Methods This is a cross sectional retrospective study with subjects selected from therecord of the malaria section of the preventive medicine department in Al Ain during1996.Results Out of 482 malaria cases in Al Ain during 1996, 76.1% of the cases wereimported from outside and 23.9% did not have complete records. 53.3% of theimported cases were imported from Pakistan, 5.2% from Oman and 5.2% from Sudan.Only 7.9% of malaria cases in 1996 were UAE nationals. 61.5% of the national caseshad got their infection from Oman, 29.6% from Yemen and 7.7% from Pakistan. Thecommonest type of malaria were P.vivax which constituted 76% of the cases followedby P. falciparum 24%. Resistant to chloroquine is 20.1%. The incidence rate per10000 of population declined from 5.2 in 1990 to 1.7 in 1996 due to improvement inmalaria control strategies.Conclusion There is no local transmission of malaria in Al Ain and most cases ofmalaria are imported from outside. The incidence of malaria in Al Ain is highest duringthe summer months because most expatriates return back from their home countriesto the end of summer months.

Project No. 115 (1997)Pattern of Use of Antimicrobials in Al-AinStudent Authors: Ahmed Hussian Ahmed Al-ZarouniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the pattern of use and/or misuse of antimicrobials in Al Aincity and the magnitude of the misuse and to set appropriate recommendations.Methods This is a retrospective descriptive study which covers 484 cases who attended4 primary health care clinics in Al Ain city. These cases were all diagnosed as havingmicrobial infections categorized as URTI, ENT, common cold, skin infections, diarrhea,bronchitis and eye infections. In a few cases antimicrobials were prescribed withoutjustification.Results The percentage of cases given antimicrobials for each diagnosis category was81.4% for URTI, 91.1% for ENT, 25.7% for common cold, 46.9% for diarrhea, 86.7%for bronchitis and 6 cases had antimicrobials without mentioning the cause. Since allof the above mentioned infections are mostly considered as viral, it was not justifiableto use antimicrobials in such a high percentage of cases. This findings indicate thatthere is a misuse of these drugs in Al Ain as reported in populations in other countries.Conclusion Antimicrobials are misused in PHC in Al Ain.Recommendations To follow the policy of MOH and to do routine antimicrobials usesurveillance to detect changes in the future.

Project No. 116 (1997)A Study on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Women toward Breast Self-ExaminationStudent Authors: Iman Ahmed Rashed Saif Al-ZaabiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To determine the knowledge, attitude and practice of women towardbreast self-examination and if these were influenced by the age, family history ofbreast cancer, and the educational level of the women as well as the husbands.Methods Design: Women of 30 years of age and above attending the surgical andmedical outpatient clinics were selected. Data was collected in a pretestedquestionnaire. The study was conducted in Egypt (Cairo), Kaser Al-Aini Hospital.Results This study involved 104 women with their age ranged from 30-68. Only 43%heard about breast self-examination (BSE) and about 91% knew the benefit of BSE. itwas found that the educational level of the husband and the family history of breastcancer were significantly influenced the knowledge of the women. Those women hadfairly good attitude toward BSE that was significantly influenced by the family historyof breast cancer. Only 42% of those heard about BSE practice it regularly.Conclusion Knowledge of BSE is still inadequate among women in the developingworld. Therefore, more efforts from the medical and health professionals are neededto improve the knowledge and to explore the importance of BSE in reducing the risk ofbreast cancer.

Project No. 117 (1997)Registration of Renal Problems in Poona HospitalStudent Authors: Aisha Mattar Al-NoubiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives The purpose of this study was to have a look on kind of renal patientsadmitted to Poona hospital, their different presentations, the comorbid conditions andtype of management they are receiving.Methods Design: In the Poona hospital and research center, Poona city in India from24 June to 27 July 1996. A standard questionnaire was used and filled by theresearcher herself. Poona hospital is a big private hospital, relatively well equippedand arranged. It has two consultant nephrologists and one dialysis unit with twodialysis machines. The unit usually receives 4-5 patients per day for haemodialysis.Renal transplantation is also performed in the hospital. Subjects: 18 patientsadmitted to the hospital under the supervision of the nephrologists. Both sexes anddifferent ages were included in the study. The patients were of Indian nationality andfrom different classes. Some cases were selected from the previous admissions in thehospital by the help of the supervisor.Results Most of the patients were male over four years of age. They presented to thehospital most commonly with vomiting and oedema. Hypertension was the mostcommon comorbid condition then malaria and medication. Renal failure was thecommon diagnosis. Two patients only had renal biopsy. Most of the patients were onhaemodialysis.Conclusion Renal problem is relatively common. Hypertension and infection must beconsidered in the diagnosis in developing countries.

Project No. 118 (1997)Penetrating Ocular InjuriesStudent Authors: Amna Ahmed Al-MarzouqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To know the percentage of penetrating ocular injuries among males andfemales, know the causes of injuries, find out the common age group which issusceptible to these injuries, and the distribution of such injuries among populationaccording to their nationality.Methods The present survey was conducted by examining the case notes of all 27patients with evidence of penetrating ocular injuries seen in the eye clinic of Al-JazeiraHospital in Abu Dhabi in the UAE over the last two year period between 1 January1994 to 31 December 1995. Details of the age, gender, nationality, and causes of theinjuries were recorded.Results The number of POI among females is minimal compared to that of males.85% of patients diagnosed as having these injuries were male. One possibleexplanation for this is that the number of male workers in UAE society is more thanthe females. Although POI can affect any person at any age, the ages of the patientsin this survey vary from 3 years to 45 years. Of those the highest percentage wasobserved among the third decade (33%). More than 92% of the patients were under40 years old. This is because Abu Dhabi society consists of young age grouppopulation. Also, people in UAE are retired under the age of 50 years which decreasethe chances of hazards exposure. The second highest incidence among the firstdecade (25.9%). This is because of poor parental supervision, dependence on housemaids, inappropriate toys, high number of children of close age in one family, andchild curiosity. Female injuries incidence is 15% and most of these injuries areaccidental at home. The majority of POI victims are locals 33%, Indians 33% andPakistanis 22%. This is due to the large number of foreign workers in UAE who areunskilled. Most of the injuries are industrial 41% home accidents 37%.

Project No. 119 (1997)Female Adolescent Dieting: A Healthy Practice or a Borderline MentalDisorderStudent Authors: Fatma Moh'd Al DarmakiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. H Al-SawadiAbstract:Objectives There is a rising number of adolescent dieting in the developed world.Dieting is a known factor for some eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa andbulimia nervosa. In the UAE there were no studies about dieting in adolescent females.This study will focus upon dieting in adolescents and its association with mentaldisorder.Methods A cross sectional study was conducted by distributing a self- administeredquestionnaire. That sample that will represent the population was a convenient onefrom female government schools. Al Ain school district give the permission todistribute the questionnaire to 6 female schools; 4 high school and 2 intermediateschools. The questionnaire contains three parts: general demographic questions,adolescent dieting pattern, and self- reporting questionnaire.Results The study sample was of 540 females who were mainly from UAE nationalityand other Arab countries. Their age range from 11 to 19 years, the majority of themwere within the age range of 14- 16-years. The results were normally distributed inthe educational level and the living conditions were from the average and aboveaverage categories. Dieting was also normally distributed where the majority of themwere with the minimal and intermediate groups. The prevalence of obesity was around16% and mental disorder were about 55% and it was highest in the 14- 16 years agegroup. There was a detectable association between dieting and body mass index,living condition, dieting family member, dieting friend, body satisfaction, friendperception and weight perception. Dieting was also associated with SRQ or the mentalassessment of the adolescent. The main information source of diet was throughmagazines, TV and the radio about79%.Conclusion Dieting remains a good practice for the female adolescent to loose weight,however a sufficient information should be provided to them in order to prevent itsmisuse.

Project No. 120 (1997)Morbidity and Outcome of Low Back Surgery in Tawam HospitalStudent Authors: Amna Ahmed Al MarzouqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Prof. B. Ljunggren, Dr. S. SharmaAbstract:Objectives Low back pain, one of the most common ailments known to man, presentsto the neurosurgeon after failed conservative treatment, often with major associatedmorbidity. This study investigated the outcome of decompressive lumbar disc surgeryamong 86 patients at Tawam Hospital, UAE (1991-1996).Results The patients (78% males, 22% females) were aged 15-70 years with a meanof 41 years. Asians formed the majority (42%). Sciatia (87%) was the most frequentclinical feature associated with back pain and disc herniation was frequent at the L4/5level. Nerve root compression or congestion was present in 54%. More than 75% ofpatients recovered completely after surgery and this group tended to be associatedwith younger age and manual occupation. The remaining cases could not be expectedto recover because they included those with severe disability and morbidity, e.g.sphincter disturbances, assisted walking and bedridden state.Conclusion The excellent results were similar to those described elsewhere and werevirtually free of serious pre-operative complications. This emphasizes the importanceof a competent and experienced neurological team.

Project No. 121 (1997)Aminoacid Profile and Illness among Farm Workers in the UAEStudent Authors: Husam Zakaria OudaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To conduct a clinical-based study of farmers and non-farmers in the UAEand to assess pesticides exposure and symptoms occurring among them.Methods A prospective, case-control study. The population were farmers and nonfarmersin Al Ain city.Results Farmers have significant increase of symptoms of increased sweating(p

Project No. 122 (1997)Maternal Risk Factors for Fetal Macrosomia and Its Obstetric ComplicationsStudent Authors: Khaid Khalfan SabetFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the effect of maternal risk factors on the outcome ofpregnancy and newborns in terms of fetal size and their effect on the type of deliveryand complications during delivery.Methods A retrospective case- control study was conducted on 200 cases of motherswith large babies and 200 control of mothers with appropriate for gestational agebabies, who delivered in Al Ain Hospital during 1996. A total of 400 maternal chartsrelated to macrosomic and control group were reviewed in depth for nationality,parity, maternal disease during pregnancy, maternal age, maternal weight gain,gender of newborn, previous child’s birth weight, gestational age, mode of deliveryand delivery complications. All mothers with twins, intra-uterine death or perinialmortality were excluded from this study.Results Macrosomic infants differ from the control group in terms of older maternalage (p

Project No. 123 (1997)Role of Helicobacter Pylori Infection Among Dyspeptic Patients Attending AlAin Hospital, Al AinStudent Authors: Huda Khalid Saeed Al AwadiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives Helicobacter pylori is an important cause of chronic active gastritis and isstrongly associated with peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. To estimate theprevalence of H.pylori infection in patients who underwent upper gastrointestinalendoscopy and biopsy and to identify the factors which may influence the prevalenceand to document the outcome of specific treatment regimen.Methods This retrospective study of all patients attending for endoscopy investigationin Al Ain hospital during 2 January1997 to 24 March 1997.Results A total of 163 cases were studied (75.46% males and 24.54% females) out ofwhich only 100 cases had biopsy. 62% of those with biopsy were +ve for H. pyloriinfection, 38% were –ve for the infection. Of the +ve cases , The Gulf Arabs comprisedof 15%, 17% comprised of other Arabs and 30% comprised other nationalities.H.pylori was detected in 100% of severe cases, 66.6% of moderate cases and 31.8%of mild cases. The most effective eradicative method for the bacteria was found to bea combination of omeprazole, amoxycillin and erythromycin (55.56% of total 6 casestreated with this regimen) followed by a combination of omeprazole and amoxycillin(747.06% of total 17 cases treated with this regimen).Conclusions Helicobacter pylori is an important and common human pathogen causinggastritis, peptic ulcer (duodenal ulcer), and gastric malignancy. Effective eradicationprevents mortality and morbidity associated with peptic ulcer disease. Whether italters malignancy needs to be researched. Further refinements of therapy arerequired as well as the development of effective methos for the prevention of theinfection.

Project No. 124 (1997)The Prevalence of Fear among Secondary and Tertiary School Students in AlAin, UAEStudent Authors: Nisreen Ali MohammedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Hossain, Dr. A. Bener, Dr. J. BrebnerAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence if fear among secondary and tertiary schoolstudents in Al Ain and to examine the relationship between fear level and selectedvariables.Methods A cross sectional study among secondary and tertiary students in Al Ain. Thepopulation was designed to collect socio-demographic data with relating to familyrelationships. Fear level was estimated by using a modified Loisville fear surveyquestionnaire utilizing a multi-stage stratified sampling technique. The students fromthe surveyed schools completed a total of 340 questionnaires, the total responses was85%.Results The prevalence of fear was significantly associated with gender, femalesshowed to have higher mean score than males (males mean rank was 107.85 andfemales was 216.31). Furthermore, fear was highly associated with parent’s maritalstatus (p=0.014) with whom the student is living (p=0.017), house type (p

Project No. 125 (1997)The Causes and Clinical Course of Patients Presenting with Fever in Al AinHospitalStudent Authors: Aisha Sultan Al OlamaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the causes of fever in patients admitted with fever forinvestigation. To characterize the clinical, diagnostic spectrum and the outcome ofthose patients.Methods A retrospective descriptive study. 147 records were reviewed. Identificationdata, data from history, positive physical findings, pattern of fever, management andclinical outcome were assessed for each patient.Results 66.67% of patients aged between 13-42 years. Asian nationalities were themost common nationals attributed for this study followed by UAE nationals. Infectiousdiseases were the most common cause of fever (72.4% of causes). Diagnosis wasunknown in 15.6% of patients. Chronic renal and liver diseases were 3.4%. Otherscategory which include variety of diseases contributed for 5.6% of causes andneoplasm for 2.1%. Rigors either single or in combination of chills was a majorsymptoms associated with fever (53.1%). Mean duration of hospitalization was 5.46days.Conclusion Infectious diseases was the commonest causes of fever in this study. “Nodiagnosis” was the second cause. This may be due to percentage of patients who leftagainst medical advice, left without informing doctors or nurses and discharged onrequest. The least diagnosis was neoplasms. IV fluid, paracetamol and antibiotics weremost common way of management. This is acceptable due to the predominance ofinfectious diseases especially bacterial infections but there are cases of viral infectionswhich has been treated by antibiotics.

Project No. 126 (1997)The Distribution of Immunoregulatory cells in the Peripheral Blood of HealthyUAE AdultsStudent Authors: Fatma Jaffar Abdulla Al ZarouniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A Bener, Prof. M. Lukic, Dr. R. HussainAbstract:Objectives To define the normal range of hematological and immunoregulatoryparameters in healthy UAE population.Methods Blood from a group of 12 medical students at UAE University in Al Ain wasanalyzed for hematological and immunoregulatory parameters using standardtechniques.Results It was found that the values obtained in this study population for the numberof T cells, the percent values and ratios of T subsets i.e., CD4 and CD8 cells also fell inthe range described for Caucasian population. Similarly the values for B and NK cellswere within the normal range described in the literature. NK activity was studied usinga modified MTT based technique and the results were comparable with those resultsby Hussain et al. 1995. There was no significant difference between male and femalestudents in any of the immunoregulatory parameters studied. However there weresignificant difference in certain hematological parameters such as RBC, hemoglobin,haemocrit, ESR and lymphocytes.Conclusion The population sample studied here is very small and homogenous. Toestablish a healthy reference range of parameters of immuno-competent cells in UAEpopulation a larger study of a heterogeneous males and females should be done.

Project No. 127 (1997)Actual causes of death in Al Ain :The past and the presentStudent Authors: Humaid Abdulla Al AfreetFaculty Supervisors:Abstract:

Project No. 128 (1997)Respiratory Symptoms and Pulmonary Function in Portland Cement WorkersStudent Authors: Yousif Ibrahim Bin EisaFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To determine the respiratory health status of Portland cement workers andto assess the risks of exposure to cement dust as causal agent for respiratory illness.Methods A cross sectional study of Portland cement workers and the comparison ofworkers. Respiratory symptoms and acute respiratory symptoms were studied on 110Portland cement workers in Ras Al Khaimaa and 170 comparison workers in Al Ain inthe United Arab Emirates.Results The prevalence of chronic and acute respiratory symptoms was not found tobe significantly related to exposure to cement dust with the exception of sneezingattacks, runny or stuffy nose (OR= 2.42. p

Project No. 129 (1998)Pattern of Collateral Cancer in Al Ain(1994-1998)Student Authors: Asma Al-Nuaimi, Aysha Al-MutawaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. J. Brebner, Dr. F. AlMaskariAbstract:Objectives To define the epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Al Ain City, UAE andcompare it with regional and international literature. Also, to examine the pattern ofsurvival in relation to the initial diagnostic stage and histopathologic grades.Methods The project was conducted in Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals in Al Ain City inthe Eastern part of Abu Dhabi. The study included all colorectal cancer patientsdiagnosed or referred to these two hospitals between 1 January 1994 to 30 August1998. Data was abstracted using a pre-designed proforma from the medical recordsafter obtaining permission from the medical director of both hospitals. The followinginformation was collected: age, sex, nationality, clinical presentation, initial site oftumour, histopathological grade, Dukes’ stage and the type of surgical treatment.Results Data on 51 patients with colorectal cancer was collected of whom 35 weremales (68.6%) and 16 were females (31%) 23 patients (45%) were Emirates/Omanisorigin. The mean age at diagnosis was 48.24 (+/-14) years. One third of the caseswere aged between 51 and 60 years and half of the patients were below the age of 50.The main presenting symptoms were abdominal pain (64.7%) and change of bowelhabits (33.3%) and the predominant clinical symptom was rectal bleeding (37.3%).The most common site of the tumour was the rectum and sigmoid 37.3% followed bythe right colon 31.4%. 41 (80%) had been treated surgically. Histopathologicalfindings showed 47 (92.2%) were adenocarcinomas with different grades, 24 cases(47.1%) had moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, 13 cases (25.5%) with welldifferentiated adenocarcinoma and 9 cases (17.6%) with poorly differentiatedadenocarcinoma. Dukes staging results were as follows: 2 were Duke A (3.9%), 14Duke B (27.5%), 19 Duke C (37.3%) and 15 Duke D (29.4%). Death rate was alsohigher among patients with grade II adenocarcinoma. None of those who survivedwithout the primary cancer are from the group who had grade II adenocarcinoma.60% of the patients who underwent surgery had a recurrence although the marginwas clear after the resection and 28% of those had the recurrence at the anastomoticsite. The mean and median duration between surgery and recurrence was 8.8 and 6months respectively.Conclusion This study shows that the highest occurrence of colorectal cancer isbetween 51-60 years in the study population. The most common presenting symptomwas abdominal pain followed by abdominal bleeding. The rectum and sigmoid werethe commonest sites of tumor and our results are consistent with studies from theUSA and UK. Adenocarcinoma grade II is the commonest histopathological type.There was no correlation between the histopathological type and prognosis. Most ofthe lesions were seen in Duke C and D.

Project No. 130 (1998)Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among Male Doctors inAl-Ain in Medical District and the Validity of the Wrist Electronic BloodPressure MeterStudent Authors: Ahmed Mohammed H.Al Saadi, Saif Saeed M Al BedawiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of hypertension (HTN) and other CVD riskfactors among male doctors in Al Ain Medical District, to find out if there is anycorrelation between HTN and other risk factors and to assess the validity of the wristelectronic blood pressure meter.Methods A simple convenience sample of 62 male doctors aged 23 to 67 years wastaken from Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, hospitals and peripheral healthcenters. The study conducted using self-administered questionnaire andmeasurements that were obtained including weight, height, waist, hip and bloodpressure using the mercury sphygmomanometer and the wrist electronic bloodpressure meter.Results 62 male doctors were included in the study. About 20% of the male doctorswere Hypertensive. Overweight and obesity was prevalent among 71%. Physicalinactivity was prevalent in about 30%. The electronic wrist blood pressure meter washighly specific but the sensitivity was 66.7%. It correlates with the mercury device atr=0.59 and 0.69, p=0.01 for both diastolic and systolic BP readings respectively.Conclusion Hypertension prevalence among doctors was 20%, physical inactivity,obesity and overweight are prevalent CVD risk factors. The electronic wrist BPaccuracy is inadequate.

Project No. 131 (1998)Epidemiology of Stroke in Tawam Hospital , Al Ain during 1995-1996Student Authors: Rawada Ali Al KuwaitiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. J. BrebnerAbstract:Objectives To determine the frequency of stroke, the risk factors for all strokeadmissions at Tawam Hospital in the UAE.Methods A descriptive retrospective study was conducted in Tawam Hospital. Allpatients with stroke admitted to the medical ward were included during two years(1995-1996).Results Overall, the total number of stroke patients during the period of study were80 patients: 45% were in 1995 and 55% were in 1996. The frequency has beenincreased steeply with age in both men and women. It was higher in men thanwomen in age groups. The most common risk factor in males was hypertension36.5% while in females was diabetes mellitus 46.4%. The most common finding byComputer Tomography scan CT was cerebral infaction 60%. Regarding the outcome,most patients were discharged home mobile independently 32.5% or with help 32.5%.Conclusion Stroke represents a significant health problem in the UAE which mightreflect the lifestyle changes associated with urbanization. These finding suggest thatabout half of stroke deaths can be attributed to some risk factors that may beamenable to preventive strategies.

Project No. 132 (1998)The Prevalence of Stress and Health Assessment Among Female Teachers inAl Ain Government SchoolsStudent Authors: Afaf Mohammed Al ZarooniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. N. Pugh, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To investigate teacher stress (health assessment) among primary,intermediate and secondary Arabic teacher schools in Al-Ain Governmental schools,UAE.Methods A cross-sectional study among Arabic teachers in Al-Ain Governmentalprimary, intermediate and secondary schools. The population was Arabic schoolteachers in Al-Ain Governmental primary, intermediate and secondary schools. Selfadministratedquestionnaire was given to each teacher to obtain sociodemographicinformation, employment details and coping strategies. General health questionnaires(GHQ-12) were used in the survey to identify potential non-psychotic cases. Thestudy employed a two-stage sampling technique. The school teachers in theparticipating schools completed a total of 329 questionnaires; the total response was82.3Result The presence of stress (potential non-psychotic cases) was very significant(p= 13.Unmarried teachers compared to married had more stress at work because of studentmisbehavior, time or resource difficulties and poor relations with colleagues. Marriedteachers had more stress in their personal life especially because of domestic work(p=0.0001) and children (p=0.042). They also expressed marital disharmony as aneffect of stress. Unmarried teachers also showed more stress in their stressful lifeespecially because of death in the family or separation from close relatives. Marriedteachers compared to unmarried, obtained more support and help from others(p=0.007).Conclusion The prevalence of stress (mental health symptoms) is surprisingly highamong female teachers in Al-Ain governmental schools. It is so important to reduceteacher's stress because doing so have positive impact on their life and jobperformance.

Project No. 133 (1998)Prevalence of Asthma among Sharjah Primary School Children, aged 6-13yearsStudent Authors: Noura Ahmed Al SowaidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of asthma in Sharjah and to identify thepossible risk factors.Methods A cross sectional analytical study conducted by distribution of parentscompleted questionnaires among school children in primary Arabic schools. Thesample subjects included 12 schools from rural and urban areas. 600 children (300girls and 300 boys aged 6- 13 years) were selected randomly for the study.Results The prevalence of asthma was 16.9% in Sharjah emirate. The gender specificlifetime prevalence was not significant; boys 18.2% and girls 15.6%. According toareas, 18.9% in urban and 5.5% in rural. The age group 6-9 years had a prevalenceof 13.5%, but the 10-13 year age group had a prevalence of 22.4%. The onset ageprevalence was high at less than 1 year of age (30.3%) and at 5 years of age (35.6).Parental history of asthma was associated with asthma in childhood (asthmaticmothers 32.4%; asthmatic fathers 45.2%). In addition environmental factors such asplants indoor 20.2% and smoking tobacco 46.4% was significantly associated withwheezing.Conclusion The prevalence of asthma in Sharjah (16.9%) was the highest. The rate inRas Al Khaima was (9.5%), in Al Ain (13.6%), in Saudi Arabia (11.9%), in Kuwait(14.9) and in Jordan (4.1%).

Project No. 134 (1998)Febrile Seizure: Risk Factors, Characteristics and Mode of Inheritance amongUAE childrenStudent Authors: Ebtesam Eid Khalfan Al-SuweidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. N. PughAbstract:Objectives Febrile seizure is an event in infancy or childhood, usually occurringbetween 6 month and 5 years -of age, associated with fever but without evidence ofintracranial infection or other definable causes. Febrile seizure occurs in 2 - 5 % ofyoung children in the United State. There are several risk factors that could beassociated with febrile convulsion. It is important to find these factors to prevent latercomplication. To identify risk factors, describe the characteristics, and the mode ofinheritance of febrile seizure among UAE children.Methods The study was designed as a case-control study in which cases (patients withfebrile seizure) were identified and were matched to controls (febrile patients withoutseizure) with the same range of age (± 6 months), who attended the same hospital inthe same period of time. Data collection was carried out from January 1995 throughMay 1997 (period of 2 years & 5 months). Medical records of the index visit werereviewed and then mothers of cases and controls were interviewed by telephone. Ifthe mother was not available, the father or the grand mothers were interviewResults Risk factors for the UAE children found to be male gender, having respiratoryinfection, positive family history of febrile seizure which found to be of an autosomaldominant with incomplete or reduce penetration, prematurity, having vaginal delivery,and having abnormal developmental milestone. Febrile seizure found to have a peakincidence of first febrile seizure at time of the first birth day. It has a seasonalvariation, increase in winter and summer. The characteristics of the febrile seizure inthe UAE children found to be having seizure with 10 minutes duration and above butnot longer than 30 minutes mainly simple seizure, having only one attack at time ofadmission and having a high temperature with respiratory infection. Sixty eight pointsix percents found to have febrile seizure for the first time. Patient was managed byexcluding meningitis (by lumbar puncture in only a minority) and by medication suchas antipyretics, antibiotics, diazepam, and antiepileptic in some patients.Conclusion Febrile convulsion is one of the neurological disorders in infancy andchildhood that should be studied further to be able to detect high-risk children andprevent later complication. It is recommended to establish health educationalprograms for mothers about febrile convulsion and how to deal with the childrenduring the attack.

Project No. 135 (1998)Seat Belt Awareness and Usage in Al-AinStudent Authors: Mohammed Rashed Al Kaabi, Salem Bakhit Al NeaimiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. G. NicolAbstract:Objectives To explore the awareness, attitude, and compliance of seat belt users in Al-Ain city following compulsory law introduction.Methods Cross sectional survey and direct observational study. The study populationwas drawn from vehicle drivers in Al-Ain city. The questionnaires were given to 400subjects and 286 were returned. 404 subjects were studied during the observationalsurvey.Results In the questionnaire 52.5 % of subjects started wearing seat belts after thelaw introduction compared to only 40.1 of subjects beforehand.74.1% of the studiedsubjects think that seat belt bearing can save driver from severe injury. However, thequestionnaire indicated that 50% of children aged from 2-1 0 years are not securedwhen they travel in the car. The observational study showed that only 70% ofsubjects were wearing seat belt while driving.Conclusion The obligatory law had great influence on seat belt usage by increasing thenumbers of users and an increasing proportion of the population is aware of thebenefit of seat belt usage.

Project No. 136 (1998)Pattern of Paediatric Antibiotics Prescriptions in the Al Ain Medical District ofUAEStudent Authors: Zuhair Al-FardanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To explore the pattern of antibiotics use in pediatrics in Al Ain MedicalDistrict. To evaluate the clinical data documented in patient records, if it’s adequateto the diagnosis and the treatment, and the appropriate use and choice of antibiotics.Methods Cross sectional survey of pediatrics patients

Project No. 137 (1998)The Use of Health Care Services by Young Female AdultsStudent Authors: Ahlam Ahmed Hassan Saleh BusabirFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. J. BrebnerAbstract:Objectives To determine the use of health care services among young female adults.To explain the preference of young adult for the different health care facilities basedon knowledge, attitude and factors including nationality and parental influences.Methods A cross- sectional survey was carried out in Sharjah and Al Ain intermediateand secondary schools, using self-administered questionnaire. 590 subjects within theage group 11-20 years were selected randomly.Results This study showed that most of the subjects (36.4%) prefer to go to theprivate clinic, (25.9%) go to the hospital for simple illnesses and 38.5%) go toemergency room for serious problems. It was found that subjects preferred going toprivate clinic because they are seen faster (33.4% they do not waste time (23.7%),trust doctors (42.9%), have no difficulties (22% prefer doctors (49.3%), doctors withbetter skills (50% talk freely (47.8%), do enough tests (50%), give good idea aboutthe diagnosis 51.4%), good advice concerning treatment (52.7%), keep consultationconfidential (51.2%) and (53.4%) were happy to go to the same doctors again in theprivate clinicConclusion In conclusion, people should not be blamed if going to certain healthservice and some facilities are misused. In fact, the health system and healtheducation decision-makers should be blamed. Age group 11-20 years are in pubertyperiod, they just at the beginning of adulthood and most of them still under parentalinfluences. A more effective approach should be implemented regarding healtheducation programs.

Project No. 138 (1998)Attitudes Towards Premarital Screening among the Students of the HigherColleges of Technology, Al Ain and Abu DhabiStudent Authors: Khawala Al ZarooniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the acceptability and the attitude of the students in theHigher Colleges of Technology (HCT), towards premarital screening as a preventivemeasure for certain inherited and infectious diseasesMethods A cross-sectional descriptive study. The study subjects are older than 17years, UAE national students attending the HCT in Al Ain and Dubai..Results The majority of the students heard about premarital screening (92.7%),(69.7%) thought that it is an excellent idea, (92.6%) expressed that it's an importantconcept, and of those (59.8%) support the program as a preventive measure. 79student expressed some reservation regarding the concept, of those the majority, 27(35.5%) students, reported worry about creating problems among the families.(48.3%) of the students think that the program should take place during theengagement period. (46.21/o) think that participation should be voluntary, (56.4%)agreed that the ministry of health should implement the program. The majority ofstudents showed that their decision to marry would be influenced by presence ofillnesses in them or their future spouse.Conclusion Health education is important and affecting misconceptions that the studiedsample has regarding health matters. A good number of students would like to havepremarital screening programs and genetic counseling services for those who requirethem.

Project No. 139 (1998)Female Adolescent Dieting: A Healthy Practice or a Borderline MentalDisorderStudent Authors: Fatima Mohammed Al DarmakiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. H. Al SawadiAbstract:Objectives There is a rising number of adolescent dieting in the developed world.Dieting is a known factor for some eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa andbulimia nervosa. In the UAE there were no studies about dieting in adolescent females.This study will focus upon dieting in adolescents and its association with mentaldisorder.Methods A cross sectional study was conducted by distributing a self- administeredquestionnaire. That sample that will represent the population was a convenient onefrom female government schools. Al Ain school district give the permission todistribute the questionnaire to 6 female schools; 4 high school and 2 intermediateschools. The questionnaire contains three parts: general demographic questions,adolescent dieting pattern, and self- reporting questionnaire.Results The study sample was of 540 females who were mainly from UAE nationalityand other Arab countries. Their age range from 11 to 19 years, the majority of themwere within the age range of 14- 16-years. The results were normally distributed inthe educational level and the living conditions were from the average and aboveaverage categories. Dieting was also normally distributed where the majority of themwere with the minimal and intermediate groups. The prevalence of obesity was around16% and mental disorder were about 55% and it was highest in the 14- 16 years agegroup. There was a detectable association between dieting and body mass index,living condition, dieting family member, dieting friend, body satisfaction, friendperception and weight perception. Dieting was also associated with SRQ or the mentalassessment of the adolescent. The main information source of diet was throughmagazines, TV and the radio about79%.Conclusion Dieting remains a good practice for the female adolescent to loose weight,however a sufficient information should be provided to them in order to prevent itsmisuse.

Project No. 140 (1998)High school Students' Knowledge About First Aid in DubaiStudent Authors: Lina Mohammed Hadi AmiriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Prof. N. NormanAbstract:Objectives To find out high school’s knowledge about first aid.To compare the results obtained by the two different sexes, national and non-nationaland by private and government schools.Methods Setting: Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Subjects: 397 subjects within the agegroup 13-19 years of age.Results 39.8% of locals received lectures or courses on first aid, but, 60.3% of nonlocalsreceived lectures or courses on first aid.47.6% of males received a course onFirst Aid, while 52.4% of females received a course on first aid. Only 27.7% ofstudents in private schools didn't receive lectures or courses on first aid, on the otherhand 72.3 % of student from government schools didn't receive any lectures on firstaid. 42% of all the males who answered this question agreed to need of a course onfirst aid in contrast to 57% females who answered this questions. 51.1% of thenationals saw the need to receive a course on first aid, while 48.5% of non nationalssaw the need to receive a course on first aid. 36.2% of students from private schoolsagreed to the need for a course on fist aid while 63.8% of student from agovernmental school agreed to the need for a course on first aid. 53.3% of all thestudents said that first aid should be taught as sessions in the class room, while35.1% said it should be taught in holidays, 6.1% said it should be taught after schooland 5.6% said it should be taught in break hours.Conclusion High school students need to receive courses on first aid since their level ofknowledge in this matter is lacking. Government schools should provide their studentswith courses that are available in private schools, and the students opinion withregards to the best time to receive a course on first aid should be put intoconsideration when organizing a course on first aid.

Project No. 141 (1998)Mortality and Years of Potential Life Loss (YPLL) before age 60 in the UnitedArab Emirates (1992,1994 and 1996)Student Authors: Ibtisam Ali Al AmeriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To calculate cause-specific mortality rates and Years of Potential Life Lost(YPLL) to different causes of deaths in the UAE.Methods Reporting period covered: 1992, 1994, and 1996. Mortality rates and Yearsof Potential Life Lost (YPLL) were estimated for five different groups of ages fordifferent causes of deaths, using SPSS and STATA software. Estimates of age groupsand causes of deaths, mortality data, for the three years were obtained from theMinistry of Health reports, and population data was obtained from Ministry of Planningand Ministry of Health reports.Results This analysis shows the variations in the number of deaths among UAEnationals and how it differs between males and females. For each cause of death,approximately all the number of deaths among males was higher than among females.In this report we summarize the results of this analysis.Conclusion YPLL and YPLL Rate are simple to understand and can be useful in defininghealth priorities and programs for the prevention of premature deaths and targetinghealth education to those in need.

Project No. 142 (1998)Clinico-Epidemiological Atudy of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Nahla Fares, Buthaina ManoorFaculty Supervisors: Dr. G. Nicol, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To study the lifestyle and biochemical risk factors of incident acutemyocardial infarction patients admitted to Al Ain Hospital from January to October1998, and a proportion of nationals admitted to Tawam Hospital during the sameperiod through medical records. To determine the proportion of incident casesadmitted with acute myocardial infarction receiving thrombolytic therapy and to studythe door to needle time, (DNT). To explore the feasibility of conducting a hospitalbased case - control study on the risk factors of incident acute myocardial infarction inAl Ain Hospital.Methods Retrospective record based study and a hospital based case - control study inAl Ain and Tawam Hospitals in Al Ain, UAE. Patients with incident acute myocardialinfarction admitted to Al Ain and Tawam Hospital from January to October 1998 andwhose records were available in the medical records department.Results The response rate in Al Ain Hospital was 84.3%. 25% of our subjects werefrom UAE, 53.1% were from the Indian sub-continent and 21.9% were from othercountries. 68.8% of the UAE subjects were males and 31.2% were females whereas91.7% of the expatriates were males and 8.3% of the expatriates were females.34.4% of our subjects were aged 40-49 years old. The documentation of familyhistory of ischaemic heart disease was higher than the documentation of the othersrisk factors(36.4% among non UAE subjects and 9.4% among UAE subjects. Themean value of triglyceride level of the UAE subjects (135.62 mg/dl) was lower thanthe mean value of triglyceride level of the non UAE subjects (158.25 mg/dl). 50% ofthe UAE subjects and 65.9% of the non UAE subjects were ever smokers. 64.84% ofour subjects received thrombolytic therapy. 10% of subjects received thrombolytictherapy within 30 minutes and 32.5% within an hour of admission.Conclusion Though the documentation of risk factors is poor, this study found a higherprevalence of these factors among acute myocardial infarction patients. Thedocumentation of the thrombolytic therapy was complete with a sizeable proportionreceiving this intervention. UAE nationals (p= 0.000), females (p .003) and seniorcitizens (p=.000) were significantly less likely to receive thrombolytic therapy ascompared to others.

Project No. 143 (1998)Pulmonary Function in FemalesStudent Authors: Hamda Al Suweidi, Sedra Al-MansouriFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Prof. N. NormanAbstract:Objectives The accurate assessment of the effect of different determinant on the lungfunction is basic to the care of children, adolescents and adults that are exposed tothis determinant. What is required is the understanding of the relationship betweendifferent determinants and the pulmonary function, which is what we are looking for.Females are being investigated in this project.Methods The study has been done on 100 UAE female in the out patient clinic of bothTawam and A Jimi clinic. Fifty of them were locals while the other fifty were not. Datacollection was done through an "interviewer administrated questionnaire" and using aportable spirometer has collected the measurement of commonly performed lungfunction testResults The VC in locals was (2.20 ± 0.470 which was greater than non-nationals2.11± 0.38. We found out that the lung function declines with increase in age in bothnationals and non-nationals whom are ( 35) (1.97 0.33). Obesity is a risk factor and it causes adecline in pulmonary lung function, for VC in lean people was (2.33 ± 0.50) Maids hadthe lowest pulmonary lung function in compared to those obese = (2.27 ± 0.50).comparison to subjects of other jobs, and this was highly significant for the P-valuewas 0.006. Those who possessed pets had a lower pulmonary lung function than thosewithout pets did. The FEV/FVC ratio was (89.63 ± 7.23) in those with pets and (90.65± 7.44) in those without pets. According to residence areas, those living in Yahar hadthe lowest lung function results. Frankincense was found to have a negative affect onthe pulmonary lung functions for those who used incense had an FEV/FVC ratio of(90.28 7.41), while in those who did not use incense it was (95.41 ± 0.78).Surprisingly we found out that smokers had a better lung function than non-exposedto passive smokers did. VC was (2.14 ± 0.43) in passive smokers, (2.11, 0.39) innon-exposed and (2.35 + 0.41) in smokersConclusion The present study provides the pulmonary function for local and non-localfemales living in Al-Ian and the effect of different determinants like age, nationality,job, pets, residency, frankincense and smoking. Further studies on larger numbersare needed, to explore it more and to confirm the findings.

Project No. 144 (1998)Cerebral Palsy in the UAE: Possible Aetiological Factors, Types, Associationwith Seizures and Awareness of CP in FamiliesStudent Authors: Ali Al Melaih, Saif Al KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the frequency of CP in Al Ain and Tawam Hospital in Al Ain,United Arab Emirates.Methods The study was designed as a descriptive retrospective study. A sample of 51medical records of children with CP in Al Ain and Tawam Hospitals were reviewed to fillin special data forms. Family members were interviewed to fill in questionnaires.Results Risk factors correlated to CP were prematurity, low birth weight, somepregnancy and delivery complications seen in 41 out of 51 (80.4%). 19 cases out of45 (42.2%) were found to be preterm. 20 cases out of 41 (48.8%) found to be lowbirth weight. 16 of 20 (80%) them were Very Low Birth Weight. 16 cases out of 23 ofterm children had HIE. The commonest type of CP was Spastic Diplegia (49%) of thewhole sample and the least common type was the ataxic CP. Periventricularleucomalacia in US and Brain Atrophy in CT and MRI were the most striking findings.Seizures were associated with 21 cases (41.2%) with abnormal EEG in 18 (85.7%).Conclusion The most important associated risk factors were prematurity, HIE, LowBirth Weight and complicated antenatal, natal and postnatal period. Spastic CP is thecommon type of CP seen here and Diplegias are the commonest of all spastics. Anintegrated approach to prenatal, perinatal and postnatal problems is needed toprevent CP in both term and preterm babies. The awareness in families about CPseems impressive and probably the social support and the family structure plays a rolein the care for CP children.

Project No. 145 (1998)HIV & HBV - Related Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Among HealthProfessionals in Al Ain HospitalsStudent Authors: Amal Mohammed Al-Bairaq, Aisha Khalifa Al-ZyodiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of work-related injury among medicalprofessionals and their knowledge, attitude and practice with special reference toHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection.Methods Design was done in Al Ain city during the period 6 December to 31 December1997. A standardized self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data.Setting was the UAE, Al Ain city, Al Ain Hospital, Tawam Hospital and the Faculty ofMedicine and Health Sciences (FMHS). Subjects were 301 medical professionalsincluding difference specialties (anaesthesia, surgery and specialties, internal medicineand specialties, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology and family medicine) andseniority (interns, residents, specialists, training nurses, staff nurses and headnurses).Results 600 subjects were involved in this study, but 301 (50.2%) completed thequestionnaire. The majority of study subjects had a good knowledge about HIVinfection. The highest percentages of activities that can transmit HIV infection weresharing I.V. needles (96.7%) followed by sexual intercourse (97.7%), then bloodtransfusion (96.7%) which was the highest percentage (97.3%) in previous study(1993). There is no significant difference between this study and previous study(1993) in knowledge about activities which can transmit HIV infection, except insharing drinking glass as the correct answer was 85% in this study compared with8.9% in previous one (No is the correct answer). Regarding attitude, the highestpercentage of study subjects (52.8%) agreed to take care of HIV positive patients andthe lowest percentage (2%) were strongly disagreed. Doctors agreed to take care ofsuch patients more than nurses did. Concern about HIV infection becomes more thanbefore among health care workers, as 39.5% were very much worried about HIVinfection at their work compared to 33% in previous study (1993), whereas only 5.9%were not worried at all about it compared to 20.2% in 1993. Regarding practice,5.5% of health care workers always wear gloves (40% in 1993) and 97.7% alwaysthrow needles in sharp box (90.8% in 1993). The most common type of injury wasneedle stick (61%) and the most common site of injury was in finger (62%). Amongspecialists, surgeons had the highest percentage of injury by sharp object (81%) andexposure to infectious materials (47.6%). 1.3% of study subjects had recent injurycontaminated with blood of HIV/HBV positive. Regarding safety precautions relatedseminars, only 15% attended regularly and the most common reason for that is lackof time (25% answered I am too busy).Conclusion Knowledge and practice about HIV and HBV has improved since 1993 butmore concern and worry resulted from that. Fixed strategy of safety precautions mustbe followed in health care work.

Project No. 146 (1998)Milestones and DevelopmentStudent Authors: Ameena Hussain Al AmeeriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective Normally international variations are found in attaining milestonedevelopment. No information about this is available in U.A.E. apart from westerninformation.Methods I did a cross-sectional survey to estimate the proportion of children attainingvarious milestone at various ages one health center of Dubai city; compare theseproportion with similar ones in the literature; and study the relationship betweendevelopmental milestone and socioeconomic status. Children below two years comingfor vaccination on P.H.C. had been taken. Information was collected throughexamination of standards and interviewing.Results The pattern of mile stone achievement in Dubai children was comparable tothe western populations. I found no significant socioeconomic differences in themilestone achievement pattern.

Project No. 147 (1998)The Health Effects of Overhead Power Lines on the UAE University StudentsHostelsStudent Authors: Matar Rashed Al DarmakiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. O. Lloyd, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To determine the effect of electrical magnetic fields (EMFs) of the overheadpower lines on aspects of health status among students in the UAE University hostels.Methods A case control study was performed among randomly selected students in theUAE University hostels. 600 self-administered questionnaires were distributed amongthose students in both hostels but 500 students participated in the study and gavetheir responses. Then followed by measurement of the electrical magnetic field in bothhostels.Results There were very high significant differences in sleeping and mental disordersbetween the cases and controls where as no significant difference of headache andfrequency of getting illness between them. The students in both hostels related thecauses to using computer., mobile phone, driving cars, diet and water in the hostels.But most of the students in Markhania related the cause to the EMFs of the overloadpower lines.Conclusion There was positive relationship between the EMFs of the overhead powerlines and health problems such as sleeping and mental disorders.

Project No. 148 (1998-1)The Prevalence of Depression among the Medical and Non-Medical students inUAE University - 6 Dec 1997 to 7 Jan 1998Student Authors: Noura Khaled Al QassimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. BrebnerAbstract:Objective To assess the prevalence of depression among UAE medical students andnon-medical students.Methods Cross sectional descriptive study was carried out among female students inUAE university. The questionnaires were designed from the Beck depression scale,which is originally made for general people, in addition to questions that added toevaluate the satisfaction of students in relation with their studies and livingenvironment in hostels. Finally the survey assesses the practices that students makein order to relief themselves from depressive mood.Results The data was collected, where the response was 100% but there were fewquestions that were left and haven't been answered, but as major problems, therewere no problems other than the unanswered questions. The results appeared aswhat was expected; although that both of the groups suffer from their studies and notsatisfied, the medical students were the highest in score (60.6%), and 39.4% for theother group. As the problems that they face in their studies were higher in the medicalstudents from different faculties were higher. For the degree of depression, themedical students fall in the category of having depression less than mild (54.1% and45.5% for the non-medical students) and the mild degree was in the non-medicalstudents (64.7%, 35.3% for the medical students), but for the moderate one was forboth equally 1:1 each in frequency, and there was no body who is in the severe formof depression. As a coping strategy, both groups scored the same in the first 4attitudes which are talk to best friend, read Qura'an, cry and isolate themselves awayfrom the people.Conclusion: In conclusion, it is recommended that these type of symptoms shouldreally be taken care of, by holding seminars that teach the student how can she copewith herself as educational programs, and meetings should be held from the universityand the hostel sides to discuss the problems that the students really face and sufferfrom and to be solved.

Project No. 149 (C-1998/9)Factors Influencing Menarche in a Multi Ethnic CommunityStudent Authors: Aisha Abdulla Mohammed Al-Abdulli, Aisha Ali Mohammed Al-Khuzaimi, Faiza Saif Nasser HarharaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To determine the age at menarche in different nationalities, and to assesssome of the factors influencing it in Al Ain school girls.Methods Design was a community-based cross-sectional survey coveringgovernmental and private secondary schools in Al Ain city. Subjects includedsecondary school girls from different nationalities studying in Al Ain city schools. Thestudy period covered 23 January to 23 February 1999.Results The mean age at menarche in study subjects was 12.81 +/-1.46 years. Themean age at menarche in UAE nationals was 13.17+/-1.73 years, whereas it was12.61+/-1.33 years in non-nationals. There was no statistically significant associationbetween age at menarche and fat intake, however, girls with high fat intake tended tohave earlier menarche. The association between physical activity and age atmenarche was not statistically significant, though girls with higher levels of physicalactivity tended to have delayed onset of menarche. Concerning consanguinity, it wasnot associated with age at menarche, however higher consanguinity rate was observedamong UAE nationals (p=0.02). The socio-economic status, stress, and anaemia didnot show any statistically significant associations with age at menarche. Interestingly,however, analysis showed that the prevalence of anaemia in UAE nationals was highcompared to the non-nationals (p value

Project No. 150 (B-1999/0)The Prevalence of Dysmenorrhea Among Young Women in the UAE andAssociated FactorsStudent Authors: Rania Ibrahim, Klaithem Moh'dFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objective To measure the prevalence of dysmenorrhea among young women in theUAE, and to identify some factors associated with dysmenorrheaMethods Cross sectional descriptive analysis.Results The mean age of the subjects was 20.5 years (SD):2.17. The mean age atmenarche was 13.2 years (SD:1.4). The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 84%(222/265). The later the age at menarche, the more severe dysmenorrhea (p=0.2).The longer the cycle length, the more severe dysmenorrhea (p=0.0025). The heavierthe flow, the more the prevalence and severity of dysmenorrhea (p=0.03). The morethe stress, the more the prevalence (p=0.015). Positive family history wassignificantly associated with the prevalence (p

Project No. 151 (D-1999/0)Relations to Anthropometric Measurements and Blood Pressure Among UAEUniversity Male StudentsStudent Authors: Faisal Yusef Abdul Rahman Al Mojaini, Ahmed Mohd Rashed R.Nueimi, Essa Ibrahim Hassa MaullemiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective The aim of this study is to determine the relationship betweenanthropometric measures of fat pattern (body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio(WHR), exercise, family history of hypertension, and diet) and systolic (SBP) anddiastolic blood pressure (DBP) level.Methods Analytic cross-sectional study. A sample of 150 male, national, universitystudents who live in the hostel of Al Markhaniah in Al Ain city were the subjects of thisstudy. All subjects were in the age group between (18-25yr) Villas in the malestudents' hostel were chosen in rows systematically. All students in the chosen villaswho met entry criteria were entered in the study. After a verbal consent was takenfrom subjects, blood pressure was measured 3 times with rest of 5 minutes inbetween. The average of three readings was taken. Then weight, height, waist and hipmeasures were taken. The students were asked to complete a questionnaire betweenthe 1st and 2nd blood pressure readings. The collected data were entered andanalysed using the "STATA" and "SPSS" programs.Results There was a significant correlation between 8MI and both systolic and diastolicblood pressure with (r=.583, p=O.OO) and (r=.233. p=004) respectively. WHR wassignificantly related to systolic blood pressure (r=.358, P=0.00) but is not related todiastolic blood pressure (r=.054, P=0.516). There was a significant inverserelationship between a calculated physical activity index and SBP & DBP with (r= -.186, p=0.023) and (r= -.207, p=0.0 11) respectively. Unexpectedly, there was norelation between fatty food preference and blood pressure.Conclusion: BMI correlates significantly with both SBP and DBP, while WHR onlycorrelates significantly with SBP.

Project No. 152 (D-1999/0)Knowledge and Attitude Toward Using Mobile Phone While Driving.Student Authors: Khalid Mo'd Obaid Al Tunaiji, Ali Moh'd Ali Moh'd Al Sayegh, MuflehHamad Sultan Al KetbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. G. NicolAbstract:Objective To determine the attitude of the population regarding both the use ofmobile phones while driving and the new regulations and the effect of usage of mobilephones while driving as a cause of road traffic accidents.Methods Cross sectional descriptive study. School health primary, secondary andintermediate schools. Subjects were car drivers who use mobile phone in Al Ain City.Results We found that 10.4 % of them had crossed red traffic light because of mobilephone usage. 14.8% are always using mobile phone, 52.7% are usually usingtelephone, 24.6% only when necessary and 7.9% never. 73.8% wear seat belts. 63. 1% use hand held only, 12.6% use hand free only and 24.3% use both. 36.3% haveheadache, 30.6%, 22.4% have sleep disturbances, 15.1% have mental disturbances,3.8% have vomiting, 4.4% have nausea and 17.4% have dizziness. 22% lost controlon the car while using mobile phone. 6% of the subjects had car accident while usingmobile phone. 83.3% believe of the benefits of newly legislation. 90.5% are going toobey the newly legislation.Conclusion This study concluded that using mobile phones had caused lot of people tolose control on car and cross the red traffic light. In this study the attitude of thesample toward new legislation were equal in both male and female.

Project No. 153 (A-1999/0)The Relationship Between Short Interpregnancy Period and Preterm DeliveryStudent Authors: Aisha Alsheiba, Fatima Al-Mansoor, Fatima Al-JasmiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective To evaluate other maternal risk factors as potential interacting factors:maternal age at delivery, number of previous live born infants, number of neonataldeaths and stillbirths, number of previous spontaneous abortions, maternal height,maternal weight, maternal haemoglobin, trimester at which prenatal care was startedand number of prenatal visits.Methods A case control study design was used. Cases (premature deliveries) andcontrols (term deliveries) were identified from the labour book and data on IPP andinteracting variable was then abstracted from the mothers' charts and the labour book.After entry into SPSS data analysis software, data was analyzed using STAT.Results Preterm delivery was positively associated with short for most recent twopregnancies (p=0.0005), the mean of the interbirth period IBP for each mother(p=0.01360). In addition preterm delivery was associated with: age of the mother(p=0.0480), height of the mother (p=0.0300), number of visit for antenatal careduring the pregnancy period (p=0.0006) and sex for the baby of the current delivery(p=0.0000). The association between IPP and premature deliveries was maintainedwhen these interacting factors were controlled.Conclusions Short IPP significantly increases preterm delivery for the pregnantwomen. In order to prevent this major effect, women should be advised to increasethe IPP in the future.

Project No. 154 (A-1999/0)Association Between Doctor-Patient Relationship and Compliance amongDiabetesStudent Authors: Maysoon Bin-Karam, Moodhi Al Nehayan,Faculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To measure the influence of satisfied patients, through good doctor-patientrelationship on their compliance in Al-Ain community.Methods Data were derived from cross-sectional observational study of diabeticpatients, from diabetic outpatient clinic of mainly two hospitals Tawam and Al Ain. Atotal of 60 male and female UAE nationals (regardless of their age) were interviewedby completing an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire waspartially valid (the portion that measures the patients satisfaction), and the rest wasoptioned by using some reference books (the part that measures compliance).Results The general overall satisfaction of the patients was 76% and 20% moderatelyand fully satisfied. The overall compliance was 80%. Compliance was highly associatedwith patient’s characteristics (r=0.496, p

Project No. 155 (A-1999/0)Effectiveness of Legislation of Seat Belt on RTAStudent Authors: Amal Haylan, Sheikha AhmedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. G. NicolAbstract:Objective To evaluate the type of injury resulted from RTAs in UAE and to evaluate theseverity of injury before (in 1998) and after (in1999) the legislation of seat belt.Methods A descriptive retrospective study was conducted in Al Ain city among theAccident and Emergency Department (AED) records of car occupants who were injuredin RTAs in Al Ain Hospital. The sample size was n=551 patients and the data werecollected by the emergency form used in Al Ain Hospital as the abstract form.Results This study presents a sample of 551 who were injured as a result of RTA in AlAin city and attended the AED of Al Ain Hospital for the two periods (January 1998-June 1998) and (January 1999- June 1999). 294 cases (53.4%) in 1998 and 257cases (46.6%) in 1999.Males were most affected (78.58%). The main age group wasbetween 20-30 years (32.36%) , with time of accident between 6 PM –12 midnight.Severity of the injury of the following body region decreases with the legislation ofseat belt law: Head and neck (25.2%) in 1998 declined to (23.3%)in 1999. Face(5.8%) in 1998 declined to (5.1%) in 1999 Body surface (66.0%) in 1998 declined to(57.2%) in 1999Conclusion This descriptive study shows that seat belt legislation decreases theseverity of injuries of car occupants resulted from RTA.

Project No. 156 (B-1999/0)Clinico-Epidemiological Study of Meningitis, Hepatitis A and Mumps in Al AinMedical DistrictStudent Authors: Rabah Ali Mohammed, Munira Ali MohamedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. G. Nicol, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To determine incidence and seasonality of meningitis, HAV and mumps.Also, to study the sociodemographic pattern of each disease. Some specific objectivesinclude to analyse the clinical presentation, CT investigation, and antibiotic sensitivitypattern of meningitis cases. To determine geographic clustering of HAV. Finally, todetermine vaccination status of mumps cases less than 5 years.Methods The study was conducted in Al Ain City and covers the period January 1990to October 1999 (meningitis), November 1998 to October 1999 (Hepatitis A) andJanuary 1998 to November 1999 (mumps). The sociodemographic data (e.g. age,sex. nationality, and residence) were recorded from the notification forms. Otherclinical and laboratory data regarding meningitis cases were obtained from theirmedical records in the hospitals. Population denominators were estimated from theDepartment of Preventive medicine to calculate the incidence rate.Results Meningitis showed undulating pattern with a decline in the last two years.Males were more commonly infected than females (62.9% vs 37.1%). Meningitis dueto Haemophilus influenza (Hib) is the commonest type of meningitis (44.4%). Allcases of Hib Meningitis were less than six years old. Almost one third of casesdeveloped seizures and deafness (30.7% and 27% consequently). Significantassociation was found between time of presentation and development of neurologicalcomplications (X2=4.8, p-value=0.028). CT findings seemed to predict patients whowill develop neurological sequalae (X2=14, p-value=0.00). Finally, both Hib andStreptococcal pneumonia (S. pneumonia) were 100% sensitive to third generationcephalosporines and vancomycin. The number of reported cases of HAV ranges from123 in 1990 to 325 in Oct. 1999. Most of the reported cases (75%) are less than 12years of age. The majority of cases are UAE nationals (77.7%). Prevalence of HAV ismore in the rural areas (66%). There is geographical clustering of HAV as 54% ofcases were from Al Yahar. Peak incidence occurred from Jan-Mar (48.1%). Theincidence of mumps cases have decreased since 1990. Males are more commonlyinfected than females (62.5% vs 37.5%). UAE nationals are the most vulnerablegroup (56.7%). Most cases fall between 6-12 years of age (40.9%). More than onethird of cases (36.9%) were vaccinated, and nearly one fifth of cases (17.5%) werechildren less than 15 months.Conclusion The results indicate public education about meningitis to avoid latepresentation and permanent disability. Patients with CT findings need to be closelymonitored and followed up for expected neurological complications. Majority of HAVcases occur in UAE citizens with rural preponderance. Majority of mumps cases occurin children and there appears to be a reversal in the declining trend of cases.

Project No. 157 (C-1998/9)Knowledge and Practice of Paracetamol Use Among Female Students in Al AinDistrictStudent Authors: Moza Rashed AbdullaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. G. NicolAbstract:Objective To assess the prevalence of paracetamol use and the knowledge of its sideeffects and toxicity among female students in Al Ain district.Methods A community based cross-sectional study.(UAE University and ManasserSecondary School in Al Ain District). All students who attended the selected classes ondays of collecting data during December 1998 and January 1999.Results 92.9% of the study subjects have used paracetamol in the last year. The useof paracetamol among UAE nationality was marginally high compared to othernationalities. 68.8% of students obtained paracetamol without a doctor's prescription.This source of obtaining paracetamol tablets was associated with increasing age ofstudents (P

Project No. 158 (A-1999/0)The Level of Awareness of Stroke and Its Risk Factors in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Eman Rashed Deemas, Muna Obaid Al-BedawiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To study the level of knowledge and awareness of stroke and its risk factorsamong subjects attending primary health care centers in Al-Ain City (United ArabEmirates).Methods Cross sectional survey. Subjects were attending primary health centers, aged30 years old or above.Results From the 132 subjects, 57% recognized the term stroke, and there was nogender difference in stroke recognition. Smokers seem to recognize the term strokemore than the non-smokers do, and high proportion of subjects with family history ofstroke recognized the term stroke (87%). The educational level has a significant rolein gaining knowledge about stroke. More than 40% did not know that male gender isa risk factor. However, more than 90% recognized hypertension as a risk factor forstroke. More than 70% knew about 4 presenting symptoms, more than 50% knew allthe symptoms. Males were significantly more knowledgeable about stroke using theoverall stroke score as the outcome variable compared to females.Conclusion From our study, we noticed that one fourth of the study subjects sufferedfrom hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or both. And nearly 60% of study subjectsrecognized the term stroke. Smokers, males and those who have family history ofstroke seem to know more about stroke compared to the general population.Nationals are less educated compared to non-nationals, while the income levels aremuch higher in nationals.

Project No. 159 (B-1999/0)The Prevalence, Correlates and Outcome of Anaemia among Pregnant Womenin Al-Ain and Tawam HospitalsStudent Authors: Amna Jassim, Laila Darwis, Salma Salem, Sumaya AhmedFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Aim To study The prevalence, correlates and outcome of anaemia among pregnantwomen in Al-Ain and Tawam Hospitals.Methods This study was conducted in Al Ain and Tawam hospitals and in the postnatalward in Al Ain hospital. Design was cross-sectional of two components: abstract formand an interviewer administered questionnaire. 588 medical records have beenreviewed in both hospitals, and 52 were interviewed in Al Ain hospital.Results The prevalence of anaemia in studied pregnant women in third trimester was49.2% in which microcytic anaemia forms a high proportion (5%). The Arab Gulf hadthe highest prevalence of anaemia (59.4%), followed by the UAE nationals (52.1%).It has also been found that anaemia is more common in women with the followingfeatures: women with age more than 30 years old (50.5%), with low educational level(65%), have family income of 5500 Dhs or less (61.9%), have BMI of 27 or less in thefirst and second trimester respectively (27.3%, 35.6%), have a number of 8pregnancies or more (56.9%), with late bookings (85.7%), and with low frequencyiron intake (63.3%). In addition, we have found that the percentage of anaemiamothers who had preterm infants was 53.8 whereas 47.1% had low birth weightinfants.Conclusion Anaemia in pregnancy deserves more attention than it is currentlyreceiving, and it is the time to re-examine the problem, to assess the local etiologicalfactors, and then to design appropriate strategies for prevention and treatment.

Project No. 160 (C-1998/9)Smoking Habits, Knowledge and Attitudes among HCT and FMHS studentsStudent Authors: Faiza Ahmed, Ghuwayana Al-Neyadi, Jameela Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M.M. Hossain, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Aim Cigarette smoking is the single most preventable cause of death. However, theprevalence among adult population in United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not known. Themain aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of smoking habits among HigherCollege of Technology (HCT) and faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences students,and to determine the difference concerning smoking habits knowledge and attitudebetween students HCT and FMHS.Methods This is a descriptive and analytic cross-sectional study conducted at the HCT& FMHS in Al-Ain. A multi-stage sampling technique was used. The data was collectedby self-administered questionnaire. The data from the original questionnaires werecoded, entered, processed and analyzed on an IIBM-PC compatible computer usingSPSS and STATA program.Results The overall prevalence of smoking was 5.7%, and it was higher among HCT(8.0%) students than FMHS students (3.4 %). The prevalence of ex-smokers amongHCT and FMHS students was 5.2% and 5. 1% respectively. The prevalence of neversmoked was 86.8 % among HCT students and 91.5% among FNMS students.Exposure to passive smoking at home of HCT students (50.6%) was higher than thatof FMHS students (32.6%), whereas exposure at college it was of similar percentage.There was clear association between the gender and smoking habit as it was morecommon among male students. The most common reasons for starting smoking wereas follows: pressure from friends, stress, pleasure and stress. The most commonreasons for stopping and not to smoke were health concerns and religious concern.Both groups of students had a quite good knowledge about smoking, but medicalstudents had more detailed information. The attitude toward smoking was nearlysimilar among both two groups.Conclusion The prevalence of smoking was found to be low among the students ingeneral but it was higher among the non-medical (HCT) students than the medical(FMHS) students. The knowledge and attitude toward smoking was nearly the sameamong medical and non-medical students.

Project No. 161 (1999)The Prevalence of Anemia in School Students and the Influence of Socio-Demographical factors in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Salem Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. C. Oyejide, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of anaemia among school students ofdifferent age groups in schools in Al Ain City. To describe their dietary and eatinghabits. To study the effect of sociodemographical factors on the prevalence ofanaemia.Methods Descriptive and case control designs were applied in this study. Both malesand female schools and the School Health Department of Al Ain were involved.Information about demographic characteristics and laboratory results includingcomplete blood count (CBC) and prasitologic data for all students who were screenedwere collected. The information for a total of 4143 students were obtained andentered for the descriptive study. A questionnaire about sociodemographicalcharacteristics and dietary habits was given to all anaemic males 6 years old withHb11g/dL in the same class and school.Results Overall, anaemia was found in 11.6% of all students studied. Of the males,7.7% were anaemic and of the females 15.1%. This difference was significant(p

Project No. 162 ( )The Prevalence, Risk & Aggravating Factors of Gastroesophageal RefluxDisease Amont Arab and National Population Living in UAEStudent Authors: Salma Saeed, Najla Al Mukairi, Aisha Moh'd SuhailFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. G. NicolAbstract:Objectives To study the prevalence, risk factors and aggravating factors of GERD inNational & Arab adult population living in Abu-Dhabi Emirate. To study prevalence ofGERD according to age, gender education, marital status and occupation. To studyassociation between GERD & BMI, smoking, coffee drinking, and consumption ofcertain medications & food habits.Methods Community based, cross sectional survey. Setting: Abu-Dhabi municipalityand Al Ain University.Subjects: Administrative staff of Abu-Dhabi municipality andfemale medical and non-medical students.Results The prevalence of GERD in Abu Dhabi Emirate was 81% (nonmedical studentshave 84.5%, medical student have 80%, and Municipality 77.6%). There wasstatistically significant relation between family history of heartburn, having heartburn,having regurgitation and heartburn diagnosis. Moreover, there was no significantassociation between current smoking and different reflux symptoms but it shows tosome extent that the symptoms of reflux and heartburn diagnosis increases in currentsmokers than non-smokers. According BMI it was statistically significant relation withGERD; however, the relation with heartburn was not significant. Concerning skippingmeals and eating late at night, it was highly significant with GERD. We didn't foundany association between age, gender, stress and GERD.Conclusions The prevalence of GERD among adult Arab population is 81 % and it ishigher in our study as compared to other studies done in Europe. Obese people aresignificantly at higher risk of having GERD as compared to people with normal bodymass index. The prevalence of heartburn in people with a family history of heartburnis significantly high, probably showing the genetic component of this GERD.

Project No. 163 (A-2000/1)Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Alternative Medicine among UAEresidents.Student Authors: Salem Khamis Salem Khamis M Al-Neami, Saeed Salem SaeedRashed Al-Hafiti, Abdulla Rashed Saeed Khalfan, Rashed Obaid Ali Al-Khal Al-SowaidyFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Prof. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of population using alternative medicine amongUAE and non-UAE nationals. To see if there is any difference between different agegroup, educational level, gender and income regarding usage and safety of alternativemedicine.Methods A cross sectional survey was carried out in primary health care centres inAlain. The target population of the study is both UAE and non-UAE nationals of bothsexes who can read Arabic. All participants should be above 17 including patients andtheir companions. Arabic translated questionnaire was used and coded and entered inthe computer of FMHS using the statistical package program SPSS.Results The study showed that 67% of the sample tried alternative medicine duringtheir life. Herbal medicine is the most wellknown type of alternative medicine. Therewas no significant difference between the use of alternative medicine betweendifferent educational level, age groups, gender and income. Most of the people hadused alternative medicine. There was no significant difference between the use ofalternative medicine between different educational level, age groups, gender andincome. Most of the people had used alternative medicine. There was a very highsignificant difference between the use of cautery and its safety among between localand non-local that more locals consider it safe and tried it.Conclusions Alternative medicine is an important aspect of the human life style.Despite the dramatic development of health care systems and medical thinking,alternative medicine is still widely used and popular among people in UAE. Educationlevel, age, gender and income of the patient had no much influence on the decisionregarding its use.

Project No. 164 (A-2000/1)Knowledge and Attitude of National People Towards Organ DonationStudent Authors: Ghanem Ali Mohd Abdulla Al-Hassani, Tareq Mohd Sultan Mohd Al-Neyadi, Salem Khalifa Salem Rashed Al-Falasi, Ali Saeed Obaid Ali Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. A.G. NicolAbstract:Objectives To determine knowledge of UAE nationals about organ donation and toknow the reasons of not willing to donate; and trying to know the best way forencouraging people to participate in organ donationMethods A cross-sectional survey carried out by distributing questionnaire to aconvenience sample of people over 18 years old attending primary health care clinicsin AI-Ain city.Results 77.3% of the studied population agreed on the concept of organ donation.However, 14.2% of them are really willing to donate their organs, 49.5% may donatetheir organs if they have to and 36.3% refused. There was some difference in theattitude and knowledge of the studied population according to gender, age group andlevel of education.Conclusions The knowledge of the people about organ donation is limited. As a resultof that people fear having their organs donated. A more effective approach should betried regarding health education programs by using the different types of media.

Project No. 165 (B-2000/1)Descriptive Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Travel HealthAmong UAE residentsStudent Authors: Maisoon Abdulla Ahmad Al Al-Tunaiji, Naja Salem Ahmed AwadhFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objective To evaluate the diseases related illness and the knowledge prior toconsultations as well as to correlate the knowledge with the demographic and travelvariables and previous travel experience.Methods Community based, cross sectional study. Setting: female hostels and privategovernment schools in Al-Ain. Subjects: female students in the hostels, and bothprivate and government school teachers.Results Seeking advice was higher among local teacher's (80%) and students (39%)comparing with non-local teachers and students because they travel to higher-riskcountries. The time of seeking advice before travel was longer among students (71%),where they usually seek advice a week prior the travel where (53%) of the teacher willseek advice at the same period. 40% of the students take vaccination and 60% do notreceive vaccination before travel to Haj or Umra because they may already receivedthe vaccine in the previous years where 58% of the teachers will seek vaccination forHaj. 87% of the teachers will develop health problems Having health insurance prior totravel among the teachers was 18% and students 8%. The teachers know more aboutthe advantage of having insurance to have access to health services in manycountries. Students were more knowledgeable than teachers were but they do notpractice seeking advice during travel and 13% of the students.Conclusion: The growth of travel and increasing numbers of those affected by travelrelated illness, some of serious nature, will cause a lot of demand the attention of themedical profession. A lot of problems do occur during travel and medical attention hasto be shifted to the travel medicine in order to stop complications.

Project No. 166 (B-2000/1)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hormonal Therapy Among UAE Women inAl AinStudent Authors: Amna Ahmed Mohd. Shaiban Al Muhairi, Afaf Abdullatif Mohd Al-Hashemi, Naja Hassan Mahmoud BalasFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. A. BenerAbstract:Objective To describe knowledge, attitude and practice of HRT in Al-Ain among localwomen in Al-Ain, UAE.Methods A cross sectional descriptive study. The study based on face to-faceinterviewer administered questionnaire. The study based on convenient two PrimaryHealth Care Clinics "Maqam and Jahili". Local United Arab Emirates (UAE) women aged20 to 65 years had been selected during the period of 8-15 November 2000.Results Of the 150 UAB women approached, 125 women agreed to participate andrespond to the study (83%). The mean age and standard deviation (SD) of thesubjects was 43 and 10.58 respectively. The majority is between 40-65 years old andmost of them are housewives, illiterate and of medium socio-economic status. Themost frequent symptoms were psychological at 81.7% and the least reportedsymptom was the cardiovascular symptoms (CVS) at 23.2%. Knowledge regardingHRT is higher among younger, educated and wealthier women than old, non-educatedpoor women (P

Project No. 167 (D-2000/1)A Descriptive study of Peptic Ulcer Perforation During Ramadan from January1995 to September 2000 in Al Ain HospitalStudent Authors: Layla Mohd Omran Taryam Omran, Noora Mubarak Jassim ThaniAl-Muraikhi, Moza Mohd Saeed Musallem H. Al-AmeriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To recognize the frequency of peptic ulcer perforation during the period ofRamadan. Starting from January 1995 to September 2000 in Al Ain Hospital.Methods The information gathered was based on a descriptive retrospective study,from patients’ medical records and the operation theater records in Al Ain Hospital(January 1995 to September 2000).Results Overall patients were 115 in the six years duration (69 months). Our studyshowed that there is an increase in the frequency of peptic ulcer perforation duringRamadan (five months) 39 (34%) compared to other months (64 months). Thepatients fall in the age group 30-39 years 48 (42%) and they were Bangladeshi,Indians then Pakistani 50 (43%), 24 (22%) and 20 (18%) respectively. Patientsusually present with sudden and severe pain. In our study 81 (46%) had no previoushistory of peptic ulcer disease. Family history and cigarette smoking contribute to thedevelopment of peptic ulcer disease 12 (10%) and 57 (50%) respectively.Conclusion Peptic ulcer perforation increases during Ramadan, especially among themiddle age, Indian subcontinent group. Previous history of peptic ulcer is alsosignificant. Family history, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption are consideredrisk factors. It is recommended to develop an educational program for the expatriatesto reduce the prevalence of peptic ulcer disease and thus perforations.

Project No. 168 (D-2000/1)A Study of Using Internet and its Effect on Health Among UAE Universitystudents.Student Authors: Mona Ali Khaifan Khamis Al-Ghaithi, Samira Abdulla Ahmed Al-ZarouniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objective To assess if there is a relationship between excessive use of Internet ondifferent health issues like eyesight, musculoskeletal, nutritional status and socialaspects among UAE University students.Methods A cross sectional survey was done in Al Ain at UAE University using selfadministeredquestionnaire. 300 students (150 males and 150 females) were selectedfrom different faculties in a convenient way.Results This study showed that most of the students (38%) had the first access toInternet in 1999. 7-33 hours/week are used to be a criteria for a high use of Internet.(26%) of the high users had worse eyesight and (69%) of them had back pain afterusing Internet, comparing with moderate and low users who significantly reported lesspercentages. Also, (26%) of excessive users were skipping meals and (72%) hadworse friend, relationship because of Internet, and they significantly reported higherpercentages than other categories.Conclusion: Excessive use of Internet is associated with some health problems, suchas poor eyesight, having back pain, social disturbances like skipping meals and worsefriend relationship. However, the relationship between spending a long period of timeon the net and its effect on other health issues like nutritional status, MS symptomsother than back pain, and change in family relationship could not be estimated.

Project No. 169 (C-1999/0)Thyroid Surgery in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Muqdad Eisa Ahmed H. Al-Hammadi, Jamal Mohd Obaid Mohd Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Bener, Dr. A.G. NicolAbstract:

Project No. 170 (C-1999/0)Pattern of Resistant Malaria in Al-Ain Medical District from 1984-1999Student Authors: Ahmad Yousif A. A. Al-Zarouni, Rashed Ahmed Abdulla Abdool,Ahmed Mubara Ali R. Al-MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, DR. P. Badrinath, Dr. A.G. NicolAbstract:Aim Chloroquine resistant malaria represents a real challenge to malaria controlprogram in endemic countries. Although there is no transmission of malaria in UAE,malaria is commonly seen due to the large population of expatriates who brings theinfection from outside the country. This study to evaluate the pattern of malariaresistance in Al Ain medical district.Methods We analyzed the medical records of the department of preventive medicine,Al Ain medical district from the earliest reported chloroquine resistant malaria in 1984till 1999. Included are 747 documented chloroquine resistant malaria cases. WHO-28test is done routinely in preventive medicine department to detect resistance, which isclassified into R 1, R 2 and R 3.Results Generally there is decreased trend of reported malaria cases over the lastdecade. Gender and age distribution of chloroquine resistant malaria is toward middleaged males. The vast majority of cases were imported from outside mainly fromPakistan and across the border from Oman. Sudanese showed a higher level ofresistance compared to all other countries (p

Project No. 171 (C-1999/0)Physical Activity as a Determinant of Health Among High School Students inAl Ain District - a Study of Knowledge, Practice and AttitudeStudent Authors: Ali Mohd Khailil Saleh Al-Hashemi, Suhail Abdelaziz A.A. Al-Awadi,Aref Obaid Mohd. Musbeh Al-KaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Hossain, Dr. A.G. NicolAbstract:

Project No. 172 (D-2001/2)Dietary Habits Among Female Higher Colleges of Technology Students in AlAin, UAEStudent Authors: Alia Saeed Juma Saif Al-Bawardi, Saeeda Saleh Hassan Al-MarzooqiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. A.G. NicolAbstract:Objectives To assess dietary habits among female higher colleges students in Al Ainand compare it to the US food guide.Methods A cross-sectional survey with self-administered questionnaire.Results The overall dietary intake in the study population did not meet the standardUS food guide. Only 5% fulfilled the criteria for the balanced diet in three of the majorfood groups. 20.8% satisfied the criteria in the only two main food groups. 32.7%were adequate in their dietary intake from only one major food group. An associationwas found between a balanced diet and home emirate (p=0.029).Conclusion The overall diet of these young females was not balanced especially forrice, fruit and vegetables. Further studies are needed to establish the validity of ourfindings and look at the causes.

Project No. 173 (D-2001/2)Contraception & Natural Family Planning - Knowledge and Practice amongUAE females in Al-Ain Medical DistrictStudent Authors: Ameena Mohammed, Aisha Abdulla, Amani SalemFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Prof. A. BenerAbstract:Objectives To assess what is the present level of knowledge and practice of naturalfamily planning methods compared to those artificial ones among UAE nationalfemales. To investigate how information on contraception can be provided mostadequately to UAE females.Methods A cross-sectional analytical survey was carried out by means ofquestionnaires (both self-administrated and interviewer- administrated) distributedamong UAE married ladies visiting Al-Ain Primary Health Care centre.Results Knowledge and use of both natural and artificial contraceptive methods werefairly equal in proportion among UAE national married women. However, the basalbody temperature method was the least to be known and used. Significantly,knowledge and use of NFP methods increased as the level of education increased.Conclusions There is a need to emphasize and address more the natural birth controlmethods. This could be reached through primary health centers, published bookletsand public lectures.

Project No. 174 (D-2001/2)Failure to thrive among Pre-School Children in Al-Ain Hospital Case ControlStudyStudent Authors: Fawaghi Rashed Abdulla, Moza Obaid Rashed Salem Al-Salami,Sareea Salem Khalifa Al-RumaithiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To identify the risk factors for FTT among inpatient pre-school children. Tostudy the feasibility of conducting a hospital based case control study on FTT. Toperform a descriptive analysis of FTT cases in terms of age, gender and nationality.To find out the causes and the associated risk factors for FTT in pre-school childrenadmitted to Al Ain Hospital.Methods The study was designed as a hospital based Case Control Study. 51 FTTcases were included and age, sex, nationality and admission time were matched withcontrols of diagnosis other than FTT of the medical records of children with FTT andtheir control admitted to Al Ain hospital were reviewed to fill in special data forms.Relevant data was abstracted from case notes from these 102 subjects.Results The response rate was 94%. The main risk factors for FTT were prenatalcomplication (like gestational diabetes, pre-eclamsaia (OR:11, 95% CI:1.3-89.5), birthweight (OR:3.1, 95% CI:1.1-8.6), prematurity (OR:5.4, 95%CI:1.1-26.3) andprevious morbidity mainly of gastrointestinal (OR:5, 95% CI:1.5-16), nutritional(OR:19, 95% CI:2.4-150.2) and infections (OR:12.2, 95% CI:1.15-16). The resultsalso showed that delayed developmental mile stones (OR:15.9, 95% CI:2-127) andweight percentile (OR:103, 95% CI:26.1-410.3) are manifestation of FTT.Conclusion It was feasible to conduct a case control study in Al Ain Hospital. Theresults showed that Arabs the leading nationalities were UAE, Oman and Syria, andamong Asians it was Pakistani. It was found that in pre-school children, the mean ageat the time of diagnosis was 12 months. The results also showed the following as riskfactors for FTT: Antenatal problems like prenatal complication, prematurity, shild withlow birth weight (

Project No. 175 (C-2000/1)A study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards Breast-feeding amongUAE National Women.Student Authors: Moza Sultan Abdulla Ali Ali-Ali, Latifa Ahmed Ali Moh'd Ebrahim,Munira Saif bin Ahmed Moh'd Al-NaqbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. A. CarterAbstract:Objective Our objectives were to assess subjects’ knowledge about breast-feeding, todetermine the factors influencing decision to breast-feed or bottle feed and to assess ifthere is relationship between socio-demographic variables and the knowledge, attitudeand practice toward breastfeeding among U AE national women.Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out in Al Ain Hospital out patientsdepartment (OPD) and primary health care (PHC) clinics based on an intervieweradministered questionnaire and self -administrated questionnaire. Subjects: 250 UAElocal married women who are 14 to 45 years old were interviewedResults Of the 250 UAE women approached, 200 women agreed to participate andrespond to the study (80%). Most of illiterate were in (40-45 years) age group. Themajority of subjects were housewives, of medium socio-economic status, and fromsmall family (1-2 children). Most of subjects breast-fed all of their children (147 out of200). Median age of introducing food was 4. 82.1% of housewife have >3 children.Educated mothers do not initiate breast-feeding immediately after delivery. The mainsource of breast-feeding information was the family. High knowledge score wasrecorded for educated mothers.Conclusion: In conclusion, UAE women are aware of the benefit of breast-feeding.Women tend to introduce food on an earlier age of the infant's life as a supplementalfood with breast milk. In general, national women have great knowledge, attitude andpractice towards breast-feeding.

Project No. 176 (C-2000/1)The Practice of Contraception Among UAE WomenStudent Authors: Maha Humaid Salem Hadfa Al-Ameri, Rasha Mohd Humaid BinDalmouk, Shaikha Ahmed Rabei SaeedFaculty Supervisors: Prof. A. Bener, Prof. N. NormanAbstract:Objective To find prevalence of contraceptive use, the most and least popularmethods, the motivating factors for contraception in UAE among women ofchildbearing ages, the sources of contraceptive knowledge as well as supply and themale's acceptance regarding contraception use.Methods Cross sectional survey. The study had been performed in Abu-Dhabi, Al-Ainand Sharjah in PHC. Married local females of childbearing age 15-45 who are willing toparticipateResults 48% are current users and 58% ever users. The most popular method is OCP(44.7%). The least popular method is the chemical method (56). 32.2% of the usersstated that improvement of the mother's and child's well being was the motivatingfactor for contraceptive use. GPs and specialists compromised the main source ofcontraceptive knowledge (26%). Most of the women stated that pharmacy was thesource of supply (30.9%) followed by hospitals (30.2%). Surprisingly 63% of malesagreed on contraceptive use.Conclusion: Slight increase in the trend of contraceptive use for the past 8-10 years.No large difference in contraceptive use between UAE women and other Arab womenliving in UAE who were included in the previous studies. No change in contraceptivepopularity.

Project No. 177 (B-2001/2Missing)Fatigue among School Teachers in Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Ousha Hamad Hareb Hamad Al-Kuwaiti, Wafa Hamad NassibBalmur Al-Mansouri, Noura Sulaiman Ahmed S. Al-Houqani,Faculty Supervisors: Prof. A. Bener, Dr. A.G. Nicol, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objectives To investigate fatigue among UAE and non-UAE national male and femaleteachers in primary and secondary schools in Al Ain Governmental schools, UAE.Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey among Arabic teachers in Al Ain. Thestudy was conducted in the period between 11 November to 28 October. Thepopulation was Arabic school teachers both male and female in Al Ain Government,primary and secondary schools. 500 self-administered questionnaires were distributedamong male and female teachers in Al Ain primary and secondary Governmentschools. The study employed a two-stage sampling technique.Results The total response rate was 67.7% as 338 questionnaires were received out of500 distributed. The school teachers participating in the study completed a total of338 questionnaires giving an overall total response of 67.8%. The mean age of maleteachers was 44 years and the mean age of female teachers was 34 years. UAEnational teachers made up 35.2% of the total study population while the non-UAEnational teachers made up 64.8%. 72% of the teachers didn't have any medicalcondition, while the rest had medical conditions like diabetes mellitus, hypertensionand anaemia. Fatigue was more common among female teachers (77.3%) with a pvalue of 0.0001, more common in UAE national teachers (79.8%) with a p value of0.001, more common among secondary school teachers (73.3%) and more amongteachers with no children (79.2%). Fatigue had an impact on social and personal lifewith 52% being unable to have enough time with family or friends, 45.3% havinghome/work conflicts and 84% being most of the time occupied with work.Conclusions The prevalence of fatigue is statistically significant among the femaleteachers especially the non-married, UAE national secondary school teachers whencompared with other teachers. This might be due to the rapid social changes the UAEcommunity is witnessing, unrealistic goals, poor lifestyle (e.g. the physical inactivity,poor sleep and diet) and undiagnosed medical conditions e.g. anaemia or psychiatricconditions e.g. depression or anxiety.

Project No. 178 (B-2001/2Missing)Impact of New Health Regulations on the Care of Diabetics in Primary care inAl-AinStudent Authors: Eman Moh'd Hamad Khalifa Al-Houdi, Eman Rashid Moh'd TanyamFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:

Project No. 179 (B-2001/2)Emiratis' Attitudes, Knowledge and Practice towards Pre-Marital ScreeningStudent Authors: Mariam Nasser Al-Zaabi, Hessa Moh'd Ali, Ameera Saif Moh'dFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objectives To study the knowledge, attitude and practice of UAE nationals withrespect to Pre-Marital Examination (PME). Moreover, we aim to asses theirsatisfaction with the attention given by the Ministry of Health and the media towardspre-marital examination.Methods Design: The study is a cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study.Instrument of collecting data: self-administered, interviewer-assisted and intervieweradministeredquestionnaires. Setting: In primary health centers in Al Ain (Al Maqam,Al Khabisi, Al Masoodi, Al Neyadat, Oud el Tobah). Population: 296 Emiratis (maleand female), single and married, 17-55 years old, living in Al Ain. Schedule: 27October to 28 November 2001.Results The main outcomes of our study showed that people had good knowledge(85%) and high agreement (96%) toward the idea of the premarital examination.There was no association between attitude score of people and their gender and levelof education, whereas there was a statistically significant association between attitudescore and marital status and age with those who are older and married have moreagreement with PME. A large proportion of people are willing to separate if the resultsof PME are positive for infectious diseases (63.6%), whereas only 26.8% of subjectswill separate if the results of inherited diseases was positive.Conclusion Premarital examination is considered a method of preventing transmissionof both inherited and infectious diseases, which are common in the UAE because of alarge number of expatriates, the exogamic marriages and consanguineous marriages.

Project No. 180 (A-2001/2)Descriptive Study of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Surveillance in Al Ain MedicalDistrict (1995-2000)Student Authors: Abdulla Saeed Ismail Aseed Jouteih, Ahmed Rashid KhalifaDemas, Ebrahim Mohamed Rashid Ali Al NeaimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Badrinath, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To study pulmonary TB surveillance data in Al Ain Medical District (1995-2000). To determine age, gender, nationality and occupation distribution of TB cases,to determine source of diagnosis and source of notification, causative organisms, drugsensitivity pattern and public health action taken towards patients and contacts.Methods Case series with descriptive analysis of surveillance data of TB records inPreventive Medicine Department in Al Ain Medical District (1995-2000). 443 recordsout of 626 records available in PMD have been studies and analyzed retrospectively.Results A large majority of TB cases in Al Ain are males from the age group 13-44years with less than 10% from UAE. Most of them are farmers followed by drivers andmanual workers. Cases were mostly notified from PMD and in 87%, more than onetest has been used before diagnosis of TB. Cavitations and Infiltration are moreamong patients with positive AFB positive cases. INH has the highest resistancepattern (25%) and 6 out of 49 has Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR). PPD and CXR arethe most common actions taken towards contacts.Conclusion Criteria of CXR positivity for deportation may need to be revised.Cavitations and high ESR may predict AFB positivity. Hence, they could assist todetermine infectious cases.

Project No. 181 (A-2001/2)An Evaluation of Diabetic Patients' Knowledge and Attitude Towards Diabetesin Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Ali Khamis Hamad Khamis Al-Bedwawi, Khalid Abdulla Ali AbdullaYaroof, Mohamed Khalfan Ali Hafesh Al KhateriFaculty Supervisors: Prof. A. Bener, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objective To assess the knowledge and attitudes of national diabetic patientsregarding diabetes.Methods We conducted a cross sectional survey of patients with diabetes presenting toprimary health care in Al-Ain. The knowledge and attitude of these patients wereassessed by using questionnaire comprising 37 questions.Results A total of 152 patients entered the study; the mean age was 53 years whilethe median was 55 years. Over 80% of the patients identified the risk factors ofdiabetes. Knowledge about the disease symptoms was good over 60% identifiedfatigue, increase appetite, feeling thirsty. Only 47.4% of the subject knew aboutkidney damage, while other complications were well known. The over all knowledgewas not affected by genders.Conclusions From our study, we found that the majority of national diabetics havegood knowledge in some areas, and poor in others. These areas could be improved bysuch means of intensifying the diabetic program in the PRC e.g. show the diabetics avideotape.

Project No. 182 (A-2001/2)Sleep Habits Amongst of Young Female Adults in the UAEStudent Authors: Hassan Ibrahim Hassan GaladariFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objective To determine in a specific group of UAE citizens, college females. theprevalence of Sleep Paralysis (SP) and also to identify factors associated with bothsleep paralysis and insomnia.Methods A cross sectional analytical survey was carried out by means of a selfadministeredquestionnaire distributed to students at the Dubai Women's College ofthe Higher Colleges of Technology.Results The prevalence of sleep paralysis was 36.1%. SP was significantly associatedwith caffeine consumption of over 200mg after 6PM (p=0.05; n=151) and nightmares(p

Project No. 183 (A-2001/2)Does Seat Belt Legislation Reduce Morbidity and Mortality of Road TrafficCrashes (RTCs)?Student Authors: Hashel Obaid Salem Khaleif Al Taneuiji, Khalid Hamad AbdullaAhmed S. FarisFaculty Supervisors: Prof. A. Bener, Dr. A. CarterAbstract:Objectives To assess the effectiveness of seat belt legislation in preventing morbiditydue to Road Traffic Crashes (RTC) and compare it with previous study..Methods We conducted a case series study of individuals injured in RTCs and taken toAl Ain Hospital during the period of February to August 2000. An Abstract Form wasused to fill data. Severity of injuries was coded according to the Abbreviated InjuryScale (AIS) and the Injury Severity Score (ISS).Results The sample was 173 RTCs cases; the mean age was 28 while the median was28. Males were most effected (82%). Out of the total sampled population 59% werefound applying the seat belt while 41% were not..Conclusion The injury severity resulting from RTCs is shifting towards minor injuries.This can be referred to the effectiveness of seat belt legislation but also other factorsshould be kept in mind.

Project No. 184 (D-2002/3)An Outcome Study of Hypertensive Disease in Pregnancy Perinatal OutcomesAmong UAE National Women in Tawam Hospital in 1998-2001Student Authors: Eman Mohd R.M.S. Al-Seddeeqi, Moaza Eid Khalfan Eid Al-Suwaidi, Naheel Mohd Juma Salem Al-BootFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M. HossainAbstract:Objectives The purposes of this study were: first, to estimate the prevalence ofhypertension in pregnant women in Tawam hospital during the period of January 1998and June 2001. Secondly, to compare perinatal mortality and morbidity in women withhypertension (exposed) and healthy pregnant women (non-exposed)..Methods The study was a retrospective matched medical records based cohort studyon all UAE national women with uncontrolled hypertension who delivered a singletonchild during the study period.Results The prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in UAE women presenting fordelivery was (2.82%). There were 100 exposed women enrolled in the studyindividually matched to non-exposed 100 women. Of 100 exposed women, 49%women met the definition of preeclampsia, 25% met the definition of pregnancyinducedhypertension, and 26% women met the definition of uncontrolled chronichypertension. The outcomes examined in this study showed that women withhypertension were significant more likely to have non-spontaneous delivery (p =0.0001) and perinatal morbidity (p = 0.027) than non-exposed women. Spontaneousdelivery occurred in (77%) non-hypertensive women compared to (37%) ofhypertensive women. Neonatal jaundice was the most common cause of perinatalmorbidity.Conclusions The prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in UAE women presenting fordelivery, while important, is lower than that reported in other countries. Whilehypertension was significantly associated with 2 outcomes studied, it was notassociated with other outcomes commonly reported to be associated with hypertensionin pregnancy in other countries. The reason for that might be the fact that our samplesize was not adequate. If the same risks can be demonstrated in larger studies in UAE,attention should be directed to adequate care for women who have hypertensionduring pregnancy in order to minimize the associated perinatal mortality andmorbidity.

Project No. 185 (D-2002/3)Major Genito-Urinary Anomalies Detected Prenatally and at Birth during theperiod of July 1998 to June 2002Student Authors: Fakhera Ahmed Helal Hamad Al-Kuwaiti, Maysoun Mohd HussainAbdalla, Hessa Abdulla Ahmad Al-GhurairFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To estimate the prevalence of genitourinary anomalies in Al-Ain medicaldistrict and to describe any risk factors that might be associated with such anomalies.Methods Data was collected by data abstraction form of the medical recordsdepartment in Tawam Hospital. It included all UAE nationals’ live births at TawamHospital. that had congenital genitourinary malformations detected prenataly or atbirth in the time period Jul/1998-Jun 2002. A total of 7013 national live births wererecorded in Tawam Hospital. After utilizing the medical records coding system inTawam hospital, 133 cases were obtained as a start. However, after reviewing therecords, 14 cases were excluded for the following reasons: 10 cases had abnormal U/5prenataly which resolved postnataly, 3 cases were normal and were included by codingerror and 1 case was born in Oasis Hospital.Results Among the 119 live births with genitourinary anomalies, 108 were males(90.8°/0) and 11 were females (9.2%). In addition, 30 cases out of 119 werepreterms and constituted 25.2°/0 of the total sample. Among these, 73.3% had majorcongenital genitourinary anomalies and 26.7% of them had minor congenitalgenitourinary anomalies. The frequency of Low Birth Weight cases among the totalnumber of cases was 27 cases out of 119 (22.7%) whereas 92 cases (77.3%) hadnormal birth weight. Further more, hypospadias accounted for 28.6% of our total 119cases (n=34) with an annual prevalence of 242/100000 male live births, 1:103 amongmale live births. This is almost three times that of the textbook prevalences 1: 350. Asfor Posterior Urethral valve, the frequency was higher than expected, 5:119, and thecalculated annual prevalence was 17.8 in 100,000 with an occurrence of 1 in 1402.6.When this prevalence is compared to that documented in textbooks, which is 1:50000.Conclusions both posterior urethral valves and hypospadias had a very high frequencyand this finding is worth considering in further studies. The extent of the associationbetween some of the maternal factors and the major CGUAs was difficult to assess dueto the descriptive nature of the study.

Project No. 186 (D-2002/3)Attitude & Knowledge of High School Girls Towards Smoking in Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Shatha Mohd Abdullah Saif Al-Suwaidi, Jamila Saif Ghumail SaeedAl-Ketbi, Kulaithem Saif M.R. Al-MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objectives To assess the attitude and knowledge of high school girls towards smokingin Al Ain city as a guide to more effective control measures..Methods A cross-sectional survey, 2002. Sampling was multistage, with 4 out of 8governmental Arabic high schools randomly selected in Al Ain City, followed by 3 tenthgrade classes from each school. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of 18structured questions was distributed to students for assessing attitudes, knowledge,and opinions about prevention of smoking. The study population included 360 femalestudents 242 Emiratis and 115 other Arabs. Data analysis was done using SPSS. Theanalysis included frequencies, cross tabulations, stratification of confounding variables,and use of chi square for assessing significance.Results 52% of our subjects had a smoker in their families, 26% of subjects had afather who smoked. There was no difference in the overall prevalence of smokingbetween Emiratis and other Arabs. Attitude: 50% of girls with a smoker in theirfamilies tended to perceive a smoker as someone lacking confidence, whereas 52% ofgirls from non smoking families perceived smokers as losers (p=0.01). 61% of girlswho had no smokers in their families said they would refuse a smoker as a futurehusband, as compared with 38% of girls from smoking families (p=0.000).Knowledge: 50% of girls had received almost no education about smoking in schools.Only 53% of girls were aware that smoking is addictive. Only 15% felt that it isextremely difficult to stop smoking. Nearly all girls knew that smoking causes lungand heart disease and lung cancer. However, 60% did not know that smoking causesother cancers, and 70% didn’t know that passive smoking causes health problems forchildren, including ear and chest infections and asthma.Conclusion We recommend development of appropriate regulations for the sale andadvertisement of cigarettes as a dangerous and addictive drug, to increase taxes oncigarettes and to prohibit advertising of cigarettes in all public places and media,especially where seen by children and the youth. There should be a ban on cigarettesales to young people of less than 21 years of age. We also recommend increasingeducational activities for children, youth, and parents in schools and in the mediaabout addictiveness and specific health effects of smoking. Students need to betaught how to deal with peer pressure. Finally, we recommend training all medicaland nursing students in all health effects of smoking and in management of smokingcessation.

Project No. 187 (C-2001/2)Attitude of FMHS Students, Interns and UAE Doctors Towards MedicalAutopsyStudent Authors: Latifa Yousef Mohammed Ismail, Salma Saeed Harib Saeed BinDeykhamFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A.G. Nicol, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives determine the attitude of FMHS students, interns and UAE national doctorstowards medical autopsy..Methods A cross-sectional survey. FMHS, UAE University and Al Ain medical district.227 medical students, 25 interns and 38 UAE national doctors in Al-Ain medicaldistrict. Subjects were asked to fill in a self-administered questionnaire. Subjects whowere willing to participate and did not know what autopsy is, were instructed to stopfilling the questionnaire. The questionnaire collected information about subjects'knowledge and attitude were willing to participate and did not know what autopsy is,were instructed to stop filling the questionnaire. The questionnaire collectedinformation about subjects' knowledge and attitudeResults Of 290 questionnaire distributed, 198 were returned (overall response ratewas 68.2%). 93.9% (n=186) of our subjects who participated in the study, knew whatautopsy is. Media represented the main source of knowledge for them. 24.1% (n=54)of the subjects knew the Islamic attitude towards medical autopsy, with media againbeing there major source of knowledge. Furthermore, 13.6% (n=25) knew what theUAE law is regarding medical autopsy. 56.5% (n=105) of our subjects felt that FMHSshould have greater emphasis on teaching autopsy.Conclusion: In conclusion, though that the majority of our subjects knew what autopsyis, a large proportion was not aware of the religious and legal views on medicalautopsy. Hence, efforts are needed to enlighten health professionals in UAE regardingthis topic.

Project No. 188 (C-2001/2)The UAE Birth Experience - How to Make the Hospital More Like a Home?Student Authors: Hessa Humaid Saeed Al-Ghaith, Mariam Rashed A Marzouq Al-MehairbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. P. BadrinathAbstract:Objectives To study national and non-national women in the UAE to assess theirattitudes towards home and hospital births.Methods Two questionnaire surveys were done. The first one was self-administeredand or interviewer administered questionnaire for all women who delivered in thepostnatal wards in the 3 main obstetric hospitals in Al-Ain district, United ArabEmirates, during a 2-week period in 2002. The study population included 134 women(69 local and 65 non-locals) who had vaginal delivery with a live birth. The secondquestionnaire was for assessing the different features of the 3 hospitals.Results 42% of subjects thought that the government should provide staff for homebirth. Furthermore, 55% of UAE-nationals felt that the government should providestaff for home birth as compared to non-nationals (P=0.001). 47% of subjectspreferred a doctor and nurse to conduct the delivery at home. 99% and 96% ofsubjects thought that hospital births are safer for them and their babies and moresatisfactory for them. 61% of subjects thought that home birth is more painful thanhospital birth.Conclusions UAE-national women feel that the government should provide theprofessional staff for home birth. This expressed wish should be further assessed in afollow up survey, to verify the numbers of women who would be likely to use such aservice, if it were introduced. Finally, hospitals should provide a more home-likeenvironment, in order to improve the current child-birth experience for mothers in theUnited Arab Emirates.

Project No. 189 (C-2001/2)Smoking Habit and Attitudes Among PHC Clinic Doctors in Al Ain MedicalDistrictStudent Authors: Aysha Ebrahem Moh'd Sultan Al-Dhaheri, Fatema Rashed KhamisAl-MansooriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objective To study the attitude of smoking and non-smoking doctors towards theirpatients who smoke among primary health care physicians in Al-Ain Medical District.Methods The study was conducted in primary health care clinics in Al-Ain medicaldistrict. The study targeted PHC Doctors exclusively. The questionnaires used in thisstudy were coded and entered in the computer of the Faculty of Medicine and HealthScience in the department of community medicine using SPSS program. This studywas designed as a across sectional survey among PHC doctors. The questionnaireswere distributed in the period from 18 to 25 January 2002. Descriptive analysis wasperformed on sociodemographic features. Categorical variables were analyzed usingChi square (x2) or Fisher's exact tests as appropriate.Results The prevalence rate of smokers among PHC doctors was 5.6% while theprevalence rate of ex-smokers was 17.8%. There was a significant difference ofsmoking prevalence between Male and Female PHC doctors when smokers and exsmokerswere combined. 32% of all males were found to be a smoker or ex-smokerwhile 12.2% of all females were found to be the same (P=0.028). 87% of the malestend to routinely find out from their patients whether they smoke or not while 59% ofthe females do the same (P=0.003). 86% of the smoking and ex-smoking doctorsbelieved that smoking among doctors in presence of patients has an effect on patient'sattitude towards smoking while 98% of the non-smoking doctors believe the same (P=0.039). 63% of the males in the study think that the effect of smoking amongdoctors in presence of patients would reduce patient's confidence in the treating doctorand adversely affect doctor-patient relationship while 34.1 % of females think thesame (P=0.009). 70% of the Arab and South Asian doctors think that the best way isto enforce no smoking rule for clinic staff while only 37% of the Sub-Saharan andWestern doctors think the same (P=0.009)Conclusion There was a low rate of smoking among PHC clinic doctors. Majoritybelieved that smoking among doctors in presence of patients has an effect on patients'attitude towards smoking. Certain aspects regarding smoking and ex-smoking doctorscouldn't be assessed due to the small percentage of them.

Project No. 190 (C-2001/2)Life Style Among Health ProfessionalsStudent Authors: Sameya Moh'd Ali Sultan Al-Olama, Ibtisam Muhsin Hassan A.A.SajwaniFaculty Supervisors: Prof. A. Bener, Dr. M. Newson-SmithAbstract:Objectives To explore lifestyle pattern (dietary habits, exercise, smoking and alcoholconsumption) among doctors. To identify any effect of age, ethnicity, income andworking hours on lifestyle pattern. To identify the association between the BMI andlifestyle pattern, and to compare the present results with available other regional andinternational results. Design: cross sectional descriptive survey.Methods Self-administered questionnaire. The study has been done in Al-Ain medicaldistrict including Tawam, Al-Ain Hospitals, Primary Health Care Clinics and Faculty ofMedicine and Health Sciences.Results We received 160 fully completed questionnaires out of 200 distributed(response rate 85%). The age group of the participants ranged from 25 to 70 yearsold and the majority were in the age group of 40-49 years old. The majority of theparticipants were female (n=87) and Arab (n= 108). As the age was increasing thediet became healthier. According to the ethnicity, Arabs tend to eat more fast food,less healthy diet and do less exercise compared to the other ethnicity groups who tendto eat less fast food, more healthy diet and do more exercise. People with BMI 30, while people with BMI between 25-29.9 have healthier diet than those with BMI between 20-24.9. People with low incomeeat more fast food and less healthy diet compared to those with high income who eatless fast food, more healthy diet and do more exercise.Conclusions The overall lifestyle patterns among health professionals were quite poor,except for smoking, which appeared to be decreased among our population. Less thanhalf of the survey population has the ideal BMI (20-25). We found that lifestylepatterns targeted in the survey were considerably affected by the factors of age;ethnicity and income, while the effect of working hours was insignificant, may be dueto the small size population. Still further studies should be made on larger populationto confirm our findings or to explore new ones.

Project No. 191 (B-2002/3)Knowledge and Attitudes About Health Effect of Breast Feeding and BirthSpacing among Post-natal Women in the Al Ain Region, UAEStudent Authors: Nasiba Farid Abdulla Al-Nadhari, Jawahir Abdalla Saif Salem K. Al-Naqbi, Mariam Al-Tuwair Ali Rashed Al-HassaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To assess the knowledge of health benefits for mother and baby, attitudesand practice for breast-feeding and child spacing..Methods The study was a cross sectional-observational survey. It was both selfadministratedand interviewer assisted. The study was conducted in Al-Ain, Tawamand Oasis hospitals, in AlAin region, United Arab Emirates between 4 November 2002to 17 November 2002. The sample selection was complete ie, all eligible subjects fromthe postnatal wards over the determined two weeks time period. The study populationcompromised of 96 women (52 Emirati and 44 non-Emirati). The response rate was91%. The questionnaire survey was exclusively developed by the researchers andconsisted of 28 questions, 2 open-ended and 26 closed-ended questions. Thequestions were related to the set aims and objectives.Results Concerning the mothers' knowledge of health benefits for mother of breastfeedings, 91% of non-Emirati women stated that breast-feeding could delaysubsequent pregnancies versus 56% of Emirati women (p=0.00). 80% of non-Emiratiwomen stated that breast-feeding prevents mother from getting too fat versus 50% ofEmirati women (p=0.007). Lastly 89% of non-Emirati women stated that breastfeedingreturns womb to normal size and reduce bleeding postpartum versus 71% ofEmirati women (p=0.03). Regarding mothers' knowledge in terms of health effects forthe baby of breast-feeding, 90% agreed that breast-feeding improves childintelligence. On the other hand, only 52% agreed that breast-feeding prevents babygetting too fat. 92% subjects are currently practicing or planning to practice breastfeeding.Out of these subjects, 57% are using other milk products along with breastfeeding.Concerning the mothers' knowledge of health benefits for mother of birthspacing, 82% stated that birth spacing would help in improving body image and 73%stated it would reduce the risk of anemia. The least items perceived as benefits werethose of reducing the postpartum bleeding (35%) and reducing prolonged labor(32%).Conclusions Current breast- feeding education appears to be in large quantity but insufficient quality. Emphasis is needed on prolonged breast-feeding to maintainmaternal and child health.

Project No. 192 (B-2002/3)What Do Patients in Primary Health Care Expect from their PhysicianEncounter?Student Authors: Jihan Abdullah Moh'd R. Al-Shehhi, Huda Saeed obaid Moh'dSubait, Fatima Ahmed Moh'd Abdulla FikriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives The study aimed at exploring patients' expectations from their physicianencounter in Primary Health Care in Al Ain city, UAE. The main objectives were toaddress patients' expectations prior to consultation, how well they are met, and toevaluate the overall satisfaction.Methods The study was an analytic prospective study, conducted in the period from 26October to 26 November 2002, in five Primary Health Care Centres, which wererandomly selected. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of two parts was usedfor data collection. Data analysis was done using SPSS.Results Analysis of the study showed that the most wanted and expected items priorto the consultation were: 'want doctor to understand the problem' (91.1 %), ‘want toreceive comfort' (94.4%), 'want to be examined' (93.3%), 'want to receiveprescription' (92.1 %), and 'want to be advised about medical treatment' (91.1 %).The least expected item was 'want to discuss certain life problems' (9.1 %). About 78% of participants had received 50% or more of their expected items. It was alsoshown that there was a statistically significant impact of the duration of theconsultation and meeting patients' expectations (P =0.042). In addition, there was astatistically significant association between patient's satisfaction and meeting theirexpectations (P = 0.007)Conclusions In summary, our findings indicate that Primary Nocturnal Enuresis is acommon problem among primary school children in Al Ain education zone. There weremany management strategies which were reported by parents but the most effectivewas emptying the bladder before going to bed. The most common causes of PNE fromparent's view were drinking plenty of fluids, not emptying the bladder before going tobed, cold weather and genetic factors. A majority (77.8%) of parents reportedimprovement in PNE and 88% were satisfied with the management of their child'sPNE. The establishment of a screening program in Al Ain for PNE, in combination witheducation of parents, school staff and health professionals concerning the diagnosisand management of PNE, has the potential to lead to increased detection andimproved management of PNE amongst school aged children in UAE. Finally, it mightbe beneficial if appropriate guidelines were developed for both diagnosis andmanagement of PNE, for use by Paediatricians, Primary Health Care clinic doctors andSchool Health doctors.

Project No. 193 (B-2002/3)Internet Use and Risk of Addiction Among UAE University studentsStudent Authors: Shereena Khamis Saeed K. Al-Mazrouei, Aisha Saeed Salim SaeedAl-Suwaidi, Asmaa Ebrahim Obaid Saeed Al-MannaieFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objective To study abnormal Internet use although normal use of Internet is notknown yet. Some researchers defined this abnormal use as possible Internet addiction.Methods Data was collected from a sample of 201 individuals whom were randomlyselected and were from different age groups and different faculties of the UAEUniversity. Questionnaires were administered to gain information about the use andaddiction of Internet amongst UAE university students (males and females).Results The study showed that 95.5% of university students do use Internet while4.4% do not use Internet. Using the Internet addiction scale developed a significantassociation was found between the Internet addiction scale and gender (P=O.003).This study showed that 43.8% of high-risk individuals and 32.2% of low-riskindividuals had noticed that their academic performance was better after Internet use,while 12.4% of the high-risk group individuals noticed that their performance wasworse after Internet use (P=0.001). Psychological symptoms were highly associatedwith the risk of internet addiction, a percentage of high risk group experienced moredepressive feelings, anger, wish to be alone and wanting to get away from problemsbefore logging into the internet with significant P values (0.046,0.009,0.006 and0.000). The association between a pre-existing chronic illness and disability wasevaluated in co-ordination with the risk of Internet addiction scale. The results showedthat (2.3%) of people with chronic illness are at high risk of Internet addiction(P=0.444); while (4.5%) of people with special needs were at high risk of Internetaddiction (P= 1. 000). 21.2% of people whom spend more than 9 hours/week hadtheir social life and social activities affected (P= 0.037) and 14.7% of participants usedinternet as an escape from socialization.Conclusions High prevalence of Internet use among UAE university students wassupported as well as the existence of risk of Internet addiction with predominance ofmale gender in addiction scale.

Project No. 194 (A-2002/3)Evaluation of the Theory-Practice Knowledge of the Usage of the MeteredDose Inhalers among Primary Health Dare Physicians in Al Ain, August 2002Student Authors: Mohd Matar Obaid Al-Mehairi, Essam Mohd Noor A.M. Howayyer,Taleb Mohd Ebrahim Al-Mansoor, Khaleil Ebrahem Abdulla M Al-MatroushiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives to assess weather all GPs follow all the steps of using the inhaler when theyteach their patients or not. If not, then what are the common mistakes they do? Dothe age of the GP, his/her gender, nationality, occupation or years of experience haveany impact on his/her technique.Methods A cross sectional study was conducted in the Primary Health Care Centres inAI-Ain Medical District. A total number of 43 physicians from nine PHC Centres enteredthis study. An interviewer-assessed questionnaire, composed of 13 questions wasused. Also, a five steps scale assessed physicians' inhaling techniques.Results 51 % of the physician had poor inhaler technique. The most common mistakesamong those whom inhaler technique was poor were the following: holding the breath(85.7%), mouthpiece holding (66.7%), shaking (57.10/0), deep-breath (47.6%) andpuffing while breathing in (38.1 %). As the number of prescribed inhaler increases theinhaler technique of the physician improves.Conclusions We concluded that most of the primary health care physicians in AI Ainare unable to perform the inhalation technique properly. Also it was noticed that as thenumber of the prescribed inhaler increases the inhalation technique of the physicianimproves.

Project No. 195 (A-2002/3)Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among Male Staff of the FMHS, UAEUniversityStudent Authors: Hisham Hassan Abdullah Hammadi, Abdelkareem Mohd Ali SultanAl-Olama, Amer Ahmed Mohd Sharif, Suhail Abdulla Mohd Al-RuknFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A. Carter, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To determine the CVD risk factors in the male staff of the Faculty ofMedicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) in UAE University, as these people have asedentary job. The objectives are to estimate the prevalence of CVD risk factorsamong this population and to assess their correlation with demographiccharacteristics..Methods The study was designed as a cross-sectional survey using an interviewerassisted questionnaire and physical measurements. The questionnaire includedquestions about demographic characteristics (age, marital status, ethnicity, staffstatus and family income per month), lifestyle and habits (smoking and physicalactivity), stress, personal and family history of hypertension, diabetes and high bloodcholesterol. Measurements included height and weight, in order to calculate Body MassIndex (BMI), and blood pressure using a digital blood pressure monitor.Results 76.4%. Obesity and overweight at 70% prevalence was the most commonCVD risk factor. Family history of both hypertension (46% prevalence) and diabetesmellitus (41 % prevalence) were the common non-modifiable risk factors. There was astatistically significant association (p

Project No. 196 (A-2002/3)Lighting in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at UAE University … isit adequate?Student Authors: Mohd Sulaiman Ahmed S. Al-Houqani, Mohd Ali Mohd Saleh MohdAli-Ali, Ahmed Taha Musabah K. Al-SuwaidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Dr. P. BarssAbstract:Objectives To determine any differences in the light intensity of different offices withand without outdoor windows regarding different tasks, different floors and blocks,different daytime and window to wall ratio. Additionally, it would also determine theindividual's perception on the current lighting in their offices.Methods Offices were grouped to either group 1 or group 2~ A form was completedwith the readings of light intensity and other measurements, and the individualsregarding their perception of light adequacy filled a questionnaire. A sample of 40offices were collected, 20 offices from each group.Results A total of 72.5% of the offices exceeded the standards. Regarding computeruse, 65% of the offices in Group 1 met the standard while the rest exceeded thestandard. In Group 2, only 20% of the offices met the standard. Most of theindividuals (80%) think that the lighting in their office is sufficient while performingtheir paper work. Other interesting results were also obtained.Conclusions The light intensity in the office samples met or exceeded therecommended standard values used in the study and many individuals remainedsatisfied with the lighting in their offices.

Project No. 197 (D-2003/4)Knowledge, Attitude & Behaviour of Osteoporosis and its prevention amongUAE National Female College StudentsStudent Authors: Mariam Ali Rashid Sultan Al-Neaimi, Nedal mohd Ahmed AliNasser Al-Tenaiji, Mariam Abdulla Mohd Ali Al-Mulla, Shaikha Mohd Saeed Buti Al-NeyadiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objectives To explore the level of knowledge, attitude and behaviour regardingosteoporosis and its prevention among UAE national female college students.Methods A cross-sectional descriptive and analytic survey was conducted in theHigher Colleges of Technology in Al Ain between 4 September 2003 and 8 October2003 with a randomly-selected sample of 295 female college students, ages 18 to 25years. The instrument for collecting data was a 55 item self-administeredquestionnaire designed to assess knowledge, attitude, behaviour and prevention ofosteoporosis among UAE national female college students.Results 244 completed questionnaires were received out of a total of 295 distributedwith a response rate of 82.7% Regarding knowledge: the results showed that 92% ofall the subjects have heard about osteoporosis. The source of their knowledge variedwith the main sources being the media (34%) and family members (30%). As forattitude: it was found that 82% of students had a positive attitude towardsosteoporosis. With regard to behaviour: dietary intake of food rich in calcium andvitamin D was inadequate. Nearly half of the subjects were not performing adequatephysical activity and one third are not having good sun exposure. However, there wasno statistical association found between the attitude and behaviour of knowledge andbehaviour.Conclusion The subjects who had heard about osteoporosis, had good knowledgeabout certain risk factors (diet, exercise and menopausal status). On the other hand,their knowledge regarding other risk factors (sun exposure, smoking and familyhistory) was deficient. It was found that their behaviour in terms of dietary intake ofcalcium and vitamin D rich food, physical activity and sun exposure was not adequate.

Project No. 198 (C-2002/3)The Effect of Health Promotion Posters on Females in PHCs in Al AinStudent Authors: Fatema Saif Abdulla Abdulaziz Al-Shamesi, Fareeda ismail Moh'dAhmed Al-Hosani, Lemya Rashid Matar Abdalla Al-ZaabiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Dr. M. M. HossainAbstract:Objective To investigate the effectiveness of health promotion posters on femalesattending PHCs.Methods An interviewer- administered questionnaire of 22 questions was used.Results Of the total 1 00 females, 93% of them notice the posters while waiting for thedoctor in the PHC clinics and 6% didn't notice the posters. 50% of them noticed (1-4)posters, while 30% noticed (5-9) posters. Neither severity of the illness, noraccompanied person had impact on noticing the posters. It has been shown thatmarried females are more interested in reading posters than single females (P value =0.023). Age group between 40 and 45 was found to be more interested in readingnutrition posters than other age groups (p value = 0.033). Housewives were moreinterested in reading pregnancy posters (p value = 0.019). In addition, Marriedfemales were more interested in reading pregnancy posters than single women (pvalue = 0.007). It was found that married women benefit from posters more thansingle females and they think that posters increase their knowledge (p value = 0.034)and change their behavior (p value = 0.026).Conclusions The findings of this study showed that posters have a positive impact onfemales as many of them found posters useful in health promotion and education.

Project No. 199 (C-2002/3)First Aid Study Among Police in Al-AinStudent Authors: Alya Saeed Ahmed Saeed AbuZinjal, Dalal Moh'd Saeed KhalfanAl-Mansouri, Ruwayya Rashed S.R. Al-MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M.M. HossainAbstract:Objectives To evaluate the knowledge and attitude towards first aid of police in AlAin..Methods The study was a cross-sectional survey. Computer-generated randomsampling was used as a method of sampling. 150 out of 300 subjects were randomlyselected in Al Ain city. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of 29 questionswas distributed to the subjects for evaluating their knowledge and attitude towardsfirst aid. The study population included 147 police men 109 Emirate and 38 Omani.116 out of 147 had first aid training 80 Emirate and 36 Omani. Data analysis wasdone using SPSS. The analysis included frequencies, cross tabulation, stratification ofconfounding variables, and use of chi square for assessing significance.Results 116 subjects (77%) received first aid training and 42 only have certificates.Knowledge: 60% have scored between 51 and 75. The subjects with no certificatehad scored higher than the subject with certificates. It was shown that the higher theeducation the better the knowledge. 21% of the police men were able to make surethat the place was safe before providing help to the others. However, 54% of thesubjects could ensure the clear airway before starting resuscitating any person. 71%of the subjects were able to treat bleeding cases; however 50% only know how to dealwith the electrical accidents. 38% of the subjects can recognize signs of shock and4% only know how to manage detergent ingestion. 54% of the subjects are able tomanage cervical spin injuries. 2% of the subjects were able to treat patients withsnake bite. They have deficiency in recognizing the triage priority in which 45% onlycould transport a person with chest injury (pain) first, and 23% could transport aperson who has large bruises and confused first. Attitude: the subjects who scoredhigh wants more training and think that the first aid training should not be limited tothe medical staff only which is the opposite to the subjects who scored low.Conclusion The police have good knowledge; however, not adequate to help people.Based on that, more first aid courses should be introduced which is properly revisedand regularly updated. The subjects require more emphasis in recognizing the casesthat require urgent management and transfer (triage priority).

Project No. 200 (C-2002/3)Prevalence and Correlates of Childhood Overweight and Obesity in Al Ain cityStudent Authors: Shaikha Atiq Abdulrahman A. Al-Atiq, Afra Rashed Saeed Ali Al-Neyadi, Tahani Saleh Saeed Abdulla Al-KayoumiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. A.G. Nicol, Dr. A. CarterAbstract:Objectives To determine the prevalence of obesity and overweight in children 8-26months in Al Ain city and its association with a number of factors.Methods A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted in Al Ain city in vaccinationand baby clinics. The study included 90 healthy children. Anthropometricalmeasurements of the children were taken and their mothers were interviewed. Theinternational standard growth charts were used to define obesity and overweight, theweight for height percentile charts were used. Children who have value above the95th percentile are considered obese and those between 85th and 95th are consideredoverweight. SPSS was used for data management and chi-square test was used totest the results for significance.Results The study found that the prevalence of overweight and obesity is 8.9% and14.4% respectively. it was found to be associated with a higher monthly familyincome. High percentage (88.9%) of mothers chose to breastfeed their children,however, the duration was highly variable. More obese and overweight children werefound in families with higher monthly income (p=0.03). Another association wasfound between the occupation of the mother and the choice of the mode of milkfeeding in early months of life. 95% of the mothers who stay at home had everbreastfed their children while 72% of those who were working had ever breast-fedtheir children. (p=0.004). Under estimation of the child’s weight was also commonamong mothers. About 50% of mothers had introduced the solid food before therecommended age. In addition, unhealthy type of food like soft drinks, fries andcandies were highly consumed among some children.Conclusion Overweight and obesity is fairly common in children as it is among adults.Unsound feeding patterns are common, like the early introduction of solid food andhigh consumption of unhealthy food. Underweight is also a common problem.Education of the mothers is needed to improve mothers’ attitudes and knowledgetoward healthy children and infants feeding patterns.

Project No. 201 (B-2003/4)Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Diabetic Patients During RamadanStudent Authors: Fatma Rashed Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, Asma Khaled Mohd MtrifAl-Jaberi, Ruqeya Ahmed Mohd Abdalla Fikri, Khadija Mohd Abdalla Al-Zaabi, FatemaSaeed Abdulla Al-ShehhiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. J. Al MutawaAbstract:Objective To assess the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices of diabetic patientsduring Ramadan in AI-Ain city..Methods The study was a descriptive and analytic cross-sectional survey, conductedduring Ramadan, 2003. The study was conducted in four diabetic clinics in AI-Ainmedical district; namely, diabetic clinic of Tawam Hospital, AI-Ain Hospital, AI-KhabisiClinic and AI-Jahili Clinic. An interviewer administrative questionnaire consists of35questions of which two are open-ended questions and 33 questions are close ended.Results Most of our subjects (80%) think that Ramadan affects their diabetesmanagement positively. According to the patients' point of view about the maindifficulties they are facing during Ramadan due to their diabetes, 65% of them saidthat they have no difficulties. The most common difficulty faced was experiencingsymptoms of hypo- or hyperglycemias during the day of Ramadan, accounting for30% of the study sample. Patients who experienced an increase in their symptoms ofhypoglycemia during Ramadan were 20% and those who experienced an increase intheir symptoms of hyperglycemia were 26%. Most of our subjects (89%) agreed thatit is culturally acceptable to break fasting during the daytime of Ramadan due tohealth issues. Moreover, 57% of them said that they are accepting doctor's opinionnot to fast during Ramadan for their benefit. When asking the patients if the doctortaught them how to deal with the pressure from family and mends to eat unsuitablefoods, 52% agreed while 43% disagreed. The majority of the study subjects (74%)said that they would feel unhappy if they have to break their fasting during the day ofRamadan due to diabetes. By asking them about their ability to resist unsuitable anddelicious food during Ramadan, 84% claimed that they are able to resist at home,compared to 73% who said that they could resist in social invitations.Conclusions 77% of the study population claimed that they are taking theirmedications regularly as directed by doctors. Forgetting was the most common causeof Lack of compliance chosen (54%). Most of the participants (73%) agreed to breaktheir fasting during the day of Ramadan if they feel symptoms of low blood sugar and43% of them said that they will not accept doctor's opinion not to fast duringRamadan for their own benefit.

Project No. 202 (A-2003/4)Health and Safety, Knowledge and Practice and Symptomatology AmongstRadiator and Exhaust Repairers - A Pilot StudyStudent Authors: Khaled Hassan Saleh Abdulla Al-Buraiki, Hamad Rahma JumaBujaber, Saeed Mohd Abdulla Mohd Al-Ardi, Younis Mohd Abdulla Hussein MohdFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Newson-Smith, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. P. BarssAbstract:Objectives To evaluate the perception, safety practice, attitude and the prevalence ofsymptoms among workers within radiator and exhaust repair workshops in Al Ain.Methods A cross-sectional survey was completed by 110 subjects from 87 workshopsin the industrial area (Sanaiya) in Al Ain in the form of interview-administeredquestionnaire.Results Knowledge: 53 out of 110 participants (48%), strongly disagree that workcan directly impact their health. Safety: 2% always put on aprons while welding.23% use gloves in welding. 13.6% always wear UV filter in welding. Up to 49% usesunglasses while welding. 8% use mask in welding. 13% always use boots whilewelding. Hazards in practice: 21% of participants exposed to burns more than threetimes during last year. 14% experienced burns from flame 1-3 times during last year.3% of workers had burns from chemical fluids more than three times in the last year.38% of participants had burns from hot objects. 28% had at least one flash burn toeyes in the last year. Symptoms: headache presents ahead of the list with (19%).Then comes general body weakness (17%), dizziness (15%) and muscle pain (14%)respectively. Abdonminal pain comes afterward with (8%) and sleep problems at theend with (6%).Conclusion There is a significant percentage of work related symptoms that correlatewith lead poisoning. The majority of workers are not using the safety measuresefficiently therefore they face work hazards frequently.

Project No. 203 (A-2003/4)Knowledge and Attitude of Postnatal Mothers in Al Ain Medical District AboutSome Common Hereditary Blood DisordersStudent Authors: Falah Abdulla Mohd Al-Mahmoud, Faisal Abdulla Rashid AliShamsi, Ali Hussain Mohd AbdullaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objectives To assess the knowledge and attitude of postnatal mothers in AI-Ainmedical districts toward common hereditary haemolytic anaemias (G6PD Deficiency,Thalassemia and Sickle cell anaemia), as a step toward decreasing the prevalence ofthese diseases among the population. Our main objective was to assess understandingof common hereditary haemolytic anaemias as well as to measure the attitude ofmothers in Al Ain toward these diseases.Methods The study was analytical cross section survey, conducted in the period from23rd August to 16 September 2003, in AI Ain Medical district, UAB in the following 3main hospitals: (AI Ain hospital, Tawam Hospital, Oasis hospital). An interviewadministeredquestionnaire was used for data collection. Data analysis was done usingSPSS.Results Analysis of the study showed a significant difference among subjects whoheard about G6PD Deficiency, according to different age groups, (72.2%) for subjectsbetween 1824 years, (47.3%) for subjects between 25-34 years & (25%) for subjects35+ years old (P = 0.008). Another significant difference among subjects who heardabout G6PD Deficiency, according to different educational level was as follows, (31 %)less than secondary school, (60.6%) completed secondary school & (50%) for highereducational level (P = 0.033. Similarly for G6PD Deficiency, (46.2%) Emaraties heardabout it, (76.5%) G6PD heard about it, while (29.4%) of other Arabs and Asians heardabout G6PD Deficiency (P = 0.006). Of the total participants, 90% agreed on theimportance of genetic counseling before marriage. As the best method of increasingknowledge about hereditary anaemias, media campaigns was the preferred approachhaving 70.6% voting for it, followed by the approach of educating school children with43.1 % approval.Conclusions There is a lack of knowledge among postnatal mothers in AI-Ain MedicalDistrict about common hereditary anaemias compared to a good attitude towardprevention of these disorders.

Project No. 204 (D-2004/5)Folic Acid Awareness and Intake Among Pregnant Women in Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Zulfa Al-Khaja, Lolwa Ahmed Ali-Ali, Hamda Hassan MohdAbdulrahmanFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. J. AlMutawaAbstract:Objectives To study was to determine the level of awareness and intake of folic acidsupplementation prior to conception and during pregnancy in a sample of postpartumwomen recruited from three hospitals.Methods Cross-sectional survey in which a structured questionnaire was used in aface-to-face interview between the subject and the investigator. Settings: The threemain hospitals in AI-Ain city. Postpartum women in the three hospitals were recruitedduring a 9-day period in October 2004. Women who did not agree to participate, ordid not speak Arabic or English were excluded.Results Showed that overall 62% of the respondents have heard about folic acid andonly 36% knew that it prevented birth defects. 65% of respondents took folic acid inthe first trimester while 7% took it prior to conception. The percentage of women whohave ever heard about folic acid was higher in those with higher education, and thosewho were not UAB nationalsConclusions The intake was higher among non-UAE nationals compared to UAEnationals although there was no difference at the level of awareness.

Project No. 205 (D-2004/5)First Aid Knowledge Among Kindergarten Teachers in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Fatima Mohd Helal Srour Al-Kaabi, Aisha Ebrahim Obaid KhalifaAl-Mehari, Moza Mohd Abdulla Sarhan Al-ZaabiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. P. BarssAbstract:Aim To evaluate and explore the basic knowledge of first aid among Kindergartenteachers in Al-Ain district for both public and public kindergartens.Methods The study was a cross-sectional survey, 2004. The randomization was astratified one; all kindergartens in Al-Ain district were divided into private and publicentities. Each kindergarten was giving a number, which we then placed in a small bagand manually selected them. We had 13 choices of the public kindergartens, and werandomly selected 7 out of 13. In the private sector we had 35 choices and werandomly selected 14 out of 35 in which all kindergartens teachers were included inboth private and public schools. 138 out of 150 subjects participated in our studywhich was conducted in AI-Ain city. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of 26questions was distributed to the subjects for evaluating their knowledge in first aid.Results Out of our 138 participates (72% n=99) subjects have first aid knowledge,(48%) of them belong to the public kindergartens teachers and (52%) to the privatekindergartens teachers. (62%) obtained their knowledge from media, (29%) fromspecial courses and- the rest from other sources (e.g. parents, friends, relatives). Themost common emergency situation encountered in the selected kindergartens isbleeding with a percentage of (67.4%), followed by trauma with a percentage of(43.5%). It turns out that (98%) of the private kindergartens have a full time healthcare professional (nurse) in comparison to only (51%) in the public kindergartens.Unfortunately a quite large percentage of the public kindergartens have no full timehealth care professional (doctor, nurse) (42%). We noticed a significant differencewith a p-value of (p=O.OOO) in the correct management of some emergencysituations, such as managing foreign body, (61%) of the private kindergartensteachers answered it correctly while only (25%) of the public kindergartens teachersgot it right. Another situation is seizure management, (18%) of the privatekindergartens teachers got it right while only (1 %) of the public kindergartensteachers got it correct (p= 0.001).

Project No. 206 (D-2004/5)Patient's Lifestyle Pre- and Post- Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) in Al Ain City,UAEStudent Authors: Fatima Hamad Al-Ghafli, Laila Salem Al-Ghafri, Noura Ali Al-HassaniFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objective To compare lifestyle pre- and post-lHD among AI-Ain city patients in theUAE.Methods A cross sectional descriptive and analytic survey was conducted in AI-Ain andTawam cardiology outpatient clinics between the 2nd of October, 2004 with acomplete census sample of 53 male and female lHO patients. The instrument forcollecting data was a 32 item self and interview administered questionnaire designedto compare lifestyle pre- and post- IHD among AI-Ain city patients in the UAE.Results 53 completed questionnaires were received. Regarding lifestyle pre and postIHD: the results showed that there is a decrease in the moderate physical activity andincrease in the very light physical activity. The patients who were smoking decreasedfrom 49.1 % before having lHO to only 8% after having IHD. The majority of patientswho were consuming fatty food daily, changed into less than once a week. Regardingknowledge, attitude and practice towards IHD, Most of the patients (89%) haveknowledge about their disease form their physicians. However, only 36% of lHOpatients actually know the cause of their disease. Although 77% of the patientsbelieve in lifestyle change, 42% changed their physical activity, 40% stoppedsmoking, 74% changed their diet and 6% stopped alcohol.Conclusion There is a significant change in physical activity, smoking and diet pre andpost lHD but not in alcohol intake. The majority of the patients stopped smoking habitafter getting lHO. After lHD, there is decrease in the moderate physical activity andincrease in the very light physical activity especially among elderly patients (agedabove 46 years). The majority of patients who were consuming fatty food daily,changed into less than once a week. Although most of the patients believe in theimportance of lifestyle changes, they did not change their lifestyle totally.

Project No. 207 (C-2003/4)Early Detection of Breast Cancer - Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices amongArab Women in the UAEStudent Authors: Mai Ahmed Al Jaber, Mariam Mohd Saeed Mohd S. Al-Kuwaiti,Asma Shabib Mohd Al-Marzooqi, Abeer Mohd Abdulla Mohd Sleem, Al-Naeema Al-Radda Kamadi Al-MuhairiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objective. To evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices of Arab women in theUAE regarding practices for early detection of breast cancer.Methods The study was an analytic cross-sectional survey, conducted during January2004. Sampling was multistage and consisted of 175 Arab women attending primaryhealth care clinic for any reason in AI-Ain city, UAE. In the first stage, selection of theclinics was done randomly from a list of primary health care clinics in AI-Ain. In thesecond stage, a systemic random sample of patients within each clinic was done andthe interviewers administrated the questionnaires to assess the knowledge, attitudeand practices regarding early detection of breast cancer. Data was analysed byfrequencies and cross tabulations. Confounding was controlled in the analysis bystratification. Chi-square was used to assess if there was a significant differencebetween what was found and what was expected.Results 175 women have completed the questionnaires out of a total of 203 womenwith a response rate of 86%. Regarding knowledge: 45% of the subjects have heardabout mammography, and 77% have heard about BSE. The main source of knowledgeof mammography and BSE was health professionals, 67% & 71% respectively. 76% ofthe women in the age group 51-70 didn't know the appropriate age to domammography. Only 10% of the subjects knew that mammogram should be doneonce every two years. 65% of the subjects knew that BSE should be done monthly.There was lack of knowledge regarding different risk factors of breast cancer. We alsofound that only 48% of the subjects were aware about the breast cancer-screeningprogram. As for the attitude: It was found that 57% & 81 % of the subjects wereinterested to practice mammography and BSE, respectively.Conclusions We found that knowledge about BSE is significantly higher thanknowledge about mammography and it is highly influenced by age and educationallevel. A Positive attitude regarding mammography and BSE were drawn, in which morethan half of the women were interested to practice these two methods

Project No. 208 (B-2004/5)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Lifestyle Factors: dietary habits, physicalactivity and smoking among FMHS studentsStudent Authors: Muna Obaid Al-Ayyan, Ouhood Mohamed Samhan, SabeehaHamdan, Sheikha Rashid Al-ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, DR. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objective To establish a proper healthy nutritional food suitable for growth anddevelopment of children.Methods The study was a descriptive and analytic cross-sectional survey. The studywas done between 3rd of November and 6th of December of 2004. All children involvein the study are between 9-13 in public, private and model schools in AI-Ain districtover 3 days period (20th - 23rd of November 2004). These primary schools in AI-Aincity are Indian private school, Al-Tamayoz model and Al Raqyea model school. A list ofthe schools for each type was obtained from AI-Ain educational district. Randomisationby a computer was carried out for each list separately to choose only one school. Twoclasses were also chosen randomly from each school. All students in the selectedclasses were included in the study except those who were absent or those who refusedto participate. The study was approved by ethics committee of FMHS and Tawamhospital. Data analysis was done using SPSS program. The analysis includesfrequencies cross tabulations and use of chi-square for assessing statisticalsignificance between categorical variable. 'Results Total of 140 children completed questionnaires were received and 53 schoolstaff questionnaires we collected. Most of these children are female 73% than male27% because of randomisation selection of schools. Most children BMI in our study arewithin normal range 64% and 18% are over weight. Our result shows that thepercentage of overweight increase as sedentary activity hours increases. Generally,most of children are eating breakfast.Conclusion We have found that 14% of children are over-weight and 18% are at riskof being over-weight. In addition, local children are not eating breakfast at homebefore coming to school and this finding is alarming because risk factors fordeveloping chronic diseases like DM in UAE nationals since early childhood exist. Asmost of us know, the importance of breakfast to build-up healthy mind and body, andit helps us to stop taking food now and then before lunch. Also, most studied showedthat breakfast may prevent obesity and then, preventing the development of diseases.Moreover, 25% of UAE nationals have DM, so early prevention of risk factors can beuseful in preventing the development and the progression of diseases in the future.

Project No. 209 (B-2004/5)Dietary Pattern Among Primary School Children (9-13 years) in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Fatima Al-Kuwaiti, Latifa Al-Dhaheri, Moza Al-DhaheriFaculty Supervisors: Prof. N. Norman, Dr. F. Al MaskariAbstract:Objective To establish a proper healthy nutritional food suitable for growth anddevelopment of children.Methods The study was a descriptive and analytic cross-sectional survey. The studywas done between 3rd of November and 6th of December of 2004. All children involvein the study are between 9-13 in public, private and model schools in AI-Ain districtover 3 days period (20th - 23rd of November 2004). These primary schools in AI-Aincity are Indian private school, Al-Tamayoz model and Al Raqyea model school. A list ofthe schools for each type was obtained from AI-Ain educational district. Randomisationby a computer was carried out for each list separately to choose only one school. Twoclasses were also chosen randomly from each school. All students in the selectedclasses were included in the study except those who were absent or those who refusedto participate. The study was approved by ethics committee of FMHS and Tawamhospital. Data analysis was done using SPSS program. The analysis includesfrequencies cross tabulations and use of chi-square for assessing statisticalsignificance between categorical variable. 'Results Total of 140 children completed questionnaires were received and 53 schoolstaff questionnaires we collected. Most of these children are female 73% than male27% because of randomisation selection of schools. Most children BMI in our study arewithin normal range 64% and 18% are over weight. Our result shows that thepercentage of overweight increase as sedentary activity hours increases. Generally,most of children are eating breakfast.Conclusion We have found that 14% of children are over-weight and 18% are at riskof being over-weight. In addition, local children are not eating breakfast at homebefore coming to school and this finding is alarming because risk factors fordeveloping chronic diseases like DM in UAE nationals since early childhood exist. Asmost of us know, the importance of breakfast to build-up healthy mind and body, andit helps us to stop taking food now and then before lunch. Also, most studied showedthat breakfast may prevent obesity and then, preventing the development of diseases.Moreover, 25% of UAE nationals have DM, so early prevention of risk factors can beuseful in preventing the development and the progression of diseases in the future.

Project No. 210 (B-2004/5)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Medical Students at the UAE Universityregarding Road Safety MeasuresStudent Authors: Hanan Al-Suwaidi, Mariam Al-Suwaidi, Azza Al-MuhairiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objectives To compare knowledge, attitude and practice regarding road safetymeasures of medical students of UAE University in different academic years, to identifythe road safety practices of a driving medical student and to find the correlationbetween educational level and knowledge, attitude and practice regarding road safetymeasures.Methods The study was a cross-sectional descriptive and analytic survey, conducted onNovember 2004. The study population consisted of a census sample of 233 of studentsof Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences of UAE University, including both males andfemales of all academic years. The data was collected through a self-administeredquestionnaire. Response rate: Females: 98% while 2% refused to participate. Male:76%, 18% refused to participate and 6% were absent. Data was analyzed byfrequencies and cross-tabulations. Mann Whitny U tests, Kruskal Wallis, andSpearmans correlation analysis were used to test the statistical significance of specificassociation between variables.Results Showed that overall 62% of the respondents have heard about folic acidand only 36% knew that it prevented birth defects. 65% of respondents took folic acidin the first trimester while 7% took it prior to conception. The percentage of womenwho have ever heard about folic acid was higher in those with higher education, andthose who were not UAB nationalsConclusions 207 medical students have completed the questionnaire out of a total of233. 54% of the students think that wearing seat belts can save them from trafficrelated injuries most of the time. 84% think they always should wear it. 48% ofstudents wear the seatbelt to maintain their safety. There was a significant differencebetween male and female students before and after studying at the medical school.21% of students always wear the seatbelt at the front seat however none of thestudents wear the seatbelt always at the back seat. 89% of students heard of childsafety seats. The students were aware of the importance of the child restraintshowever only 6% always use them in their family cars. The students' knowledgeregarding specific topics of injury prevention varied between the academic years.Almost all the students thought that injury could be preventable.

Project No. 211 (A-2004/5)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Construction Workers Toward Preventionof Heat Related Illnesses in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Omar Al-Marzouqi, Hamdan Al-Blooshi, Ahmed Al-Bannai,Mohammed Al-AwadhiFaculty Supervisors: Prof. I. Nuwayhid, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. C. FramptonAbstract:Objectives: To assess Al-Ain city construction workers knowledge about heat relatedillnesses and the protective measures, to assess workers attitude towardrecommended protective measures, to assess workers current practice for preventionand to observe facilities provided to workers at construction sites to prevent heatrelated illnesses.Methods: A cross-sectional survey, completed by randomly selected 120 participantsfrom randomly selected 12 construction sites in Al-Ain city in the form of interviewadministeredquestionnaire.Results: Knowledge: 105 out of 120 (87.5%) don’t know how to recognize initial signsof heat related illnesses, (49.6%) either don’t know or think that nothing will happen ifthey exceeded their limit of working under the sun. (63.3%) think that they don’t needany special cloth to prevent heat related illnesses. Attitude: (88.3%) will wear specialdress if provided by company. Practice: Only (6.7%) wear uniform dress at work,(64.2%) of workers have only one break during a working day. (58.3%) drinkbetween 4-6 Liters of fluid in a (8-10) hours working day and (89.5%) having theirbreak in an area without A/C or fan. Facilities: (95%) provided no training or teachingon prevention of heat related illnesses and (87.5%) had no teaching to recognizeinitial signs of heat related illnesses. (59.2%) were not provided by water or otherkind of fluids at the sites and (80.6%) were instructed by the company to take break.Conclusion: Majority of workers know very little about heat related illnesses and theyare not taking enough preventive measures toward it. Construction companies are notfollowing any protocol to protect their workers from heat related illnesses.

Project No. 212 (A-2004/5)Prevalence of Conduct Disorder Among Juvenile Delinquency Centres in theUAEStudent Authors: Ali Salem Al-Meherzi, Shakhboot Al-Badwawi, Ammar Al-BannaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Dr. C. FramptonAbstract:Objective To study the prevalence of conduct disorder in Juvenile delinquency centresin the UAE, and its association with the number of admissions to these centres and theseverity of the committed crimes. To study some of the risk factors for conductdisorder.Methods All delinquents in JDS (n=77) were interviewed to obtain thesociodemographic status. The caregivers were also interviewed in order to answerquestions in the Conduct Disorder scale.Results Conduct disorder prevalence was 24.7 % in these centres. There wassignificant association between conduct disorder and number of admissions incomparison with those without the diagnosis. There was no association between CDand the severity of the crime. There was also an association between CD and some ofthe risk factors like: fathers' education, fathers' occupation and with whom thedelinquent lives.Conclusions This study found that the prevalence of CD in JDC is higher than that inthe population. Patients with CD where found to be admitted to JDC more often thanthose without the diagnosis. But there crimes where not found more severe thanothers. CD should be diagnosed in delinquency centres in order for patients to getappropriate management. It should also be screened in high-risk patients in thecommunity.

Project No. 213 (A-2004/5)Assessment of Occupational Noise Exposure Among Smith Workers in Al AinIndustrial Area (Sanaiya)Student Authors: Amer Al Kindi, Abdullah Al Badawy, Nasser Al-AmeriFaculty Supervisors: Prof. I. Nuwayhid, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. C. FramptonAbstract:Objectives To assess past and current occupational noise exposure among workers insmithery workshops in AI-A in Industrial Area, to evaluate the auditory and nonauditorysymptoms of occupational noise exposure, and to investigate health andsafety issues, and work conditions in these shops.Methods A cross-sectional survey was completed by 108 subjects from 30 workshopsin the industrial area of A I-A in (Sanaiya) in the form of interview-administeredquestionnaire. In addition, workplace assessment form and noise dosimeter wereemployed to assess work conditions and average noise levels in (21) workshopsrespectivelyResults 24.1% =26) of the subjects considered noise levels to be high to very high atthe workplace. Workers who worked at smithery for 2: 6 years complained of moreauditory and non-auditory symptoms than those who worked for 5 years (p>0.05).Noise levels measured with the workplace assessment were> 85dB in average at47.6% (n=10) of the workshops. 98.1% (n=106) of the workers never used Hearingprotectors at work.Conclusions There is an association between the length of work duration and thefrequency of workers complaints of auditory and non-auditory health problems.(p>0.05)

Project No. 214 (C-2004/5)Attitudes, exposures and practices regarding needlesticks and other sharpsinjuries among healthcare workers in emergency department of fourgovernmental hospitals in the UAEStudent Authors: Amna Matar Al-Marashda, Asma Abdulla Al-Marzouqi, NooraHamad Al-KuwaitiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. Maja Ganczak, Prof. N. Nagelkerke, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M.Grivna, Dr. J. Al MutawaAbstract:Objectives To examine factors associated with needlesticks and other sharps injuriesamong doctors and nurses working in EDs.Methods Four emergency departments of the largest governmental hospitals in thecapital of UAE were chosen. Data was collected by a cross-sectional descriptive andanalytic survey. The study population consisted of doctors and nurses working in EDs.Results Almost 1 in 5 of respondents, doctors more frequent (29%) than nurses(15%), p=0.069, reported at least one puncture injury in the preceding year. Thenumbers of injuries were independent of age (p=0.58), and on occupational infectionstraining attendance (p=0.01), but were dependent on the years in practice (p=0.004).In the group with 2-3 years of occupational experience, 35% of respondents sustainedat least one sharps injury in the preceding year, while in the group with 4 and moreyears of experience – only 13%. All injured doctors were injured by needle duringsuturing, 59% of nurses were injured while using hollow-bore needles. Adherence tostandard precautions was found to be almost optimal among doctors concerningprotective equipment: 97% of doctors (vs. 81%) of nurses, p=0.13, always usedgloves while performing invasive procedures. Almost all nurses adhered to such safework practices recapping: only 1% of them (vs. 22% of doctors, p= 0.0001) recappedthe needles before disposal.Conclusions 19% of the respondents sustained a needlestick or other sharp injury.Though the percentage is low but it has a considerable risk.The four hospitals were homogenous. The number of needlesticks and other sharpsinjuries is rather small. Therefore, could not identify hospitals as a risk factor.Every doctor when experienced injury has experienced it with a suturing needle. It isby far the most common injury in this job category, whereas nurses are more likely tosustain hollow-bore needles injury.

Project No. 215 (C-2004/5)Knowledge, Attitude and Beliefs Among UAE University Students (18-19years) regarding HIV/AIDSStudent Authors: Amal Nasser Obaid, Fatima Abdullah Obaid, Shamma Khalifa Al-MazroueiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. Maja Ganczak, Prof. N. Nagelkerke, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. F. AlMaskari, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Aims To assess the knowledge, attitude and beliefs of UAE University students (18-19years) regarding HIV/AIDS. Our goal is to help prevention of HIV infection. We hopedthe data obtained would help us to establish educational intervention in and outschools.Methods A multi-stage sampling, 217 students from UAE University students wereassessed by anonymous questionnaires in January 2005.Results The students have a defective knowledge of the disease. They were awarethat AIDS is a serious disease (99.5%) but not sure of the cause, nature, or mode oftransmission and prevention. Their attitude and beliefs were consequently defective.Their main source of prevention information was books, magazines and media. Thevast majority (79%) of the students stated that they need to know more aboutHIV/AIDS, (56%) stated that they had not taught enough at school and 95% of themsaid that people at their age should be taught how to protect themselves fromHIV/AIDS.Conclusion There is need to provide students with correct, detailed and broad-basedI information through educating the students and their families with the collaborationof school administration through effective health educational programme to addressthe misconception. The use of the media should not be underemphasized. Rather theinformation should be enriched based on well- packaged fact for the education of thepopulation.

Project No. 216 (C-2004/5)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Swaddling in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Watfa Shahwan Al Dhaheri, Nawar Mohammad Al Falasi, ShairhaMohammad Al JenaibiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Aims To assess the association between knowledge, attitude and practice of Swaddlingand several variables including age, nationality, parity, education and employment andto compare between locals and non-locals in terms of knowledge, attitude and practiceof swaddling.Methods A cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical survey was conducted in thepost-natal wards in the 3 main obstetric hospitals, which are Tawam, Al-Ain, and OasisHospitals in Al-Ain medical district, between 2nd January 2005 and 6th February 2005with a complete census of 143 mothers with live new born babies.Results 143 mothers were interview. Regarding the practice of swaddling: 85% ofthe study subjects were intending to swaddle their infants.65% of mothers tended toswaddle their infants as swaddling promotes sleeping. Mothers who are not planning toswaddle their infants (15%) mainly considered swaddling a significant as an oldfashioned, primitive practice (68%). Regarding the knowledge of swaddling: there wasa significant difference between Emirati and Non-Emirati mothers regarding theknowledge of some of the possible beneficial effects of swaddling (p=0.003). Therewas a highly significant difference between employed and unemployed mothersregarding knowledge of some of the possible beneficial effects of swaddling (p=0.000).Regarding the attitude of swaddling: Emirates were less likely willing to change theirpractice of swaddling (65%0 compared to other Arabs from the Arabian Gulf or therest of the Arab world.Conclusion There is a significant difference between Arabs from the Arabian Peninsulaand other Arabs regarding the practice of swaddling. Mothers are aware of thebeneficial effects of swaddling. Mothers are not aware of the harmful effects ofswaddling. Tradition is the main source of information about swaddling. There is nosignificant difference between the attitude of Emirati and non-Emirati regardingwillingness to change the practice of swaddling.

Project No. 217 (2005)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Hygiene Among Kindergarten Teachers inAl Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Shaikha Saeed Butti Ali Al Muhair, Hessa Abdulla Mohd Al Shehhi,Noura Gafan Sultan Al KhailyFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Dr. P. BarssAbstract:Objectives: To determine hygiene habits, assess the attitude, knowledge and practiceof hygiene among kindergarten teachers and to examine the level of hygiene inkindergartens.Methods: The study is a randomized cross-sectional survey carried out in 2005, usinga self-administered questionnaire consisting of 36 questions. The study populationconsisted of 113 private and governmental kindergarten teachers in Al-Ain.Results: The results show that teachers lack the basic knowledge about food and handhygiene. 94% of teachers in private kindergartens and 79% of teachers in governmentkindergartens get a score lower than 5 out of 10. In a basic food and hand hygieneknowledge test 4% took hand washing courses while only 7% took space occupiedper child courses. 11% of private schools took hand washing courses, 6% took foodstorage courses and 11% took space occupied per child courses during their academicstudy. The level of hygiene did not match with the results of the questionnaire and thismismatch could be due to the lacking of hygiene guidelines.Conclusion and recommendation: Although kindergarten teachers are responsible forteaching hygienic behavior they lack the knowledge of basic hygiene. Adding hygienecourses and workshops to the curriculum may be helpful. Providing standardguidelines are essential to increase the level of hygiene in kindergartens.Keywords: Kindergarten, Practice of hygiene, Teachers.

Project No. 218 (2005)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of High School Students Regarding The Useof Baby Walkers at Homes in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Amna Mohd Ebrahim Hamdan Hanaei, Fatima Mohd Obaid AlKaabi, Ayesha Ali Hafeedh Al Dhahabi, Shamma Jauaan Abdulla Al MuhairiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of future mothersregarding unintentional Baby Walker injuries and to compare Emariti and non EmaritiKAP. To assess the support of the future mothers to ban baby walkers from UAEmarkets.Methods: Study population consists of grade 12 students in eight female Arabgovernmental high schools in Al-Ain, UAE. Multistage sampling was carried out. Inthe first stage, 4 schools were selected randomly out of the eight schools. In thesecond stage, 3 classes from the science section and 3 classes from the art sectionwere selected randomly from each school, with an average of 30 students per class.In one school, all the classes were included in the study because they were 6 classes,3 were science classes and 3 were art classes. Anonymous questionnaires weredistributed among all the students in the chosen classes and the response rate was100%. Data were analyzed with SPSS. Chi-square and independent t-test wereperformed to test the statistical association between two or more categorical variablesand differences between observed and expected results. The study was conductedform 10 September to 1 October 2005.Results: The response rate in our study was 100% (696). 19% using baby walkernow, 75% of home used to use it. Majority of the people who stopped using it isbecause they don’t have children in their home. Only small number stopped using BWin their home because of injuries (4%). The use of baby walkers in our study was56% among Emirati and 44% among other nationalities families. 41% of studentsstrongly agreed that one reason to use baby walker is to keep baby safe. About 40%strongly agreed that their families use baby walker to help baby to walk earlier. Butonly 4% and 3% strongly disagreed that it keeps baby safe and helps him to walkearlier respectively which shows lack of awareness and knowledge. 48% of thefamilies had at least one of their children injured as a result of baby walker use. 61%of the Emariti families had injuries due to baby walkers compared to 39% of othernationalities. The most common type of injuries due to baby walker use was hitting ahard object, 48% followed by Flipping on flat surface and injuries due to easy accessto dangerous objects and fall down stairs. And 2% fall into a swimming pool which isthe most serious incident. In the study, number of ER visit and admission was 72 and22 respectively, 4 cases of disabilities and 3 deaths were reported due to the use ofbaby walker one of them was because he was hit by a car. 57% of the studentssupport the idea of banning BW in UAE markets.Conclusion: The most common type of injuries due to the baby walker use was to hita hard object. It is relatively high but its consequence is not serious. Lesser frequentincidents is flipping on flat surface, access to dangerous objects while and falling downstairs. The least frequent type of incidents but potentially the most lethal was fall intoswimming pool. 57% of the sample agrees to ban selling baby walker in UAE. 16%strongly agreed to ban it. Comparing with the result of how safe you think baby walkeris; 84% of the sample reported it is safe.

Project No. 219 (2005)Prevalence of Type A Behaviour and Stress Coping Strategies Among FMHSMedical Students in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Raya Abdulla Mohd Salem Al-Mazrooei, Amna Obaid Ali Bedwawi,Noura Khamis Al-Ghaithi, Lamyaa Essa Khalifa Al AliFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objectives: To compare prevalence of type A behavior between the male and femalemedical students. To compare stress management between students in differentacademic years, of both genders and hostel and home residents. To define thefacilities required by the students to help them cope with stress.Methods: The study was done on a complete sample of all the students in the FMHS,Al-Ain city, UAE. The study was conducted between 17 and the 21 September 2005.Data were collected by a cross-sectional descriptive and analytic survey. Data analysiswas done using SPSS. Observed differences were tested for significance using Chisquare.Results: The response rate in the study was 88%. Over two thirds of the students(68%) have type A behavior. It is more prevalent among female students (73%)compare to male students (56%) (p=0.012). There is no statistical significantassociation between the prevalence of Type A behavior and: age, marital status,family income, sponsorship or BMI. The students use different strategies to cope withstress. Only 34% of the students agree they have a close relationship with theirmentor or advisor. Female students tend to share their frustrations with otherscompare to male students (p=0.006). Most of the students (64%) chose to share theirfrustrations with their friends and only (2.4%) share their frustrations with theirmentor. The younger the age of the students, the more tendency to use the followingstrategies: relaxation techniques (p= 0.033), the effective utilization of others inaccomplishing study assignment (p=0.011), and encouraging others to come withrecommended solutions for their problems (p=0.005). The higher the family income ofthe students, the more tendency to use relaxation techniques (0.023) and to sharetheir frustrations with others (p=0.026). Single students tend to take problems asopportunities for improvements more than married students (p=0.033). The studyassessed the stressors among the students and found that 82% of the students haveexams as a stressor while 51% consider death or illness in the family as a stressor.Other stressors include: stress in the family (33%), study (29%) and socialrelationships (24%). The students practice different activities to relieve stress, withmore than half of them watch TV and 47 % use internet. The students wish to havedifferent facilities and activities in the faculty and the hostel. High percentage of themasked for gymnastic-swimming pool and recreation center (54%), to go for trips(52%) and to have more open days (46%).Conclusion and Recommendation: The Prevalence of Type A Behavior among FMHSmedical students in FMHS is high (68.2%). Despite the fact that the students are usingdifferent strategies and activities to cope with their stress, the prevalence of thisbehavior type is high. This high rate requires attention to develop suitable strategies inorder to deal with its implications on the students. The students have many stressorsthat could contribute to evoke type A behavior with exams as major stress forstudents.The FMHS mentor system could have played an important role to guide the studentsand help them to deal with the stressors. However, according to the findings of thisstudy, the role is not that obvious. More effort should be put to improve this role. Thestudents asked for different facilities and activities to help them relieving their stress.The effective co-operation between the faculty and the hostel would contribute to thesuccessful implantation and improvements of these facilities and activities.

Project No. 220 (2005)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Among Mothers of Newborns and InfantsRegarding the Use of Athmad "kohl" and lead poisoning in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Najla Ahmed Mohd Ali Bastaki, Mariam Abdulla H M Al-Shehhi,Mariam Musbeh Mohd Obaid Al-Aajel, Maha Mutaeb Saeed Al-KetbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. RoosBernsenAbstract:Objectives: Kohl is widely used as a traditional cosmetic in the Middle East, Asia, andAfrica. Recent research has revealed that some types of Kohl contain lead in amountsassociated with behavioral disorders, lowered intelligence, and poor schoolperformance. With a goal of preventing lead poisoning of infants we assessedknowledge, attitude and practice of mothers on use of Kohl for their babies.Methods: We did a cross-sectional survey to a census of all mothers admitted inantenatal and postnatal wards in three main obstetric hospitals in the city of Al-Ain inDecember 2005, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data wereanalyzed using SPSS.Results: Response was 100%. The sample included 151 mothers, 48% Emirati and52% other nationalities. 67% had used Kohl on their babies; 46% applied it during 1st-7th days after birth. Use of Kohl decreased with higher levels of education (p= 0.02).Contents of kohl were unknown to 50%. Although 51% believed there is a risk withKohl, they still used it; only 26% were aware of the link between Kohl and leadpoisoning. 37% also believe that Kohl could cause eye infection. When asked if theywould stop use of Kohl if it is a health hazard, 76% agreed.Conclusion: Government should ban importation of Kohl that contains lead andrequire labeling of all ingredients. Health Ministry, professionals and media shouldeducate the public about health hazards of lead-containing Kohl.

Project No. 221 (2005)Assessment of Occupational Eye Injuries Among Workers in Al Ain IndustrialArea (Senaiya)Student Authors: Aisha Mohd Al Shamsi, Budoor Ahmed Al Shehhi, Hessa Obaid AlKaabi, Mariam Juma Al MarashdaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. M Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Because local eye injury specialists reported high risk of eye injury amongcarpenters, we decided to assess frequency of eye injuries and evaluate knowledgeand safety practice among carpenters in woodworking shops in Al Ain’s industrialdistrict.Methods: We did a descriptive cross-sectional survey of 80 workshops in carpentrysector of the industrial Area of Al-Ain city during December 2005. 0Interviewadministeredquestionnaires were used, and data analyzed in SPSS.Results: Response was 73/80 shops; 157 carpenters responded. 25% had sustainedan eye injury; three with monocular visual impairment. Powered table saws accountedfor 94% of eye injuries. There was no protective equipment on any saws, and 83% ofcarpenters were not using approved personal protective equipment ( PPE ); however,40% wore sunglasses as protection. Perceptions of causality of eye injuries includedlack of wearing PPE 41%, absence of PPE in shop 10%, and destiny 41%.Conclusion: Visual impairment from eye injury is frequent among carpenters,protective equipment uncommon, and understanding of prevention low. Prioritiesinclude regular inspection of shops, legislation to insure protective guarding ofmachines and provision of approved eye PPE, regular safety education, andappropriate warning signs.

Project No. 222 (2005)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Avian Flu Among Farm WorkersStudent Authors: Manal Salem Al Mazroui, May Ahmed Al Muhairy, MonaMohammed Al NaqbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Dr. M. Grivna, Prof. N.NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: Bird flu is an infection caused by avian influenza viruses of the type Astrains, which occur naturally among birds. It is very contagious among domesticatedbirds including chickens, ducks and turkeys. It also affects humans. The firstdocumented infection of humans with an avian influenza (strain H5N1) was in HongKong in 1997, which killed 6 people out of 18 causing severe respiratory disease. Thisyear, bird flu is suspected to have a pandemic spread, so the UAE could be in dangerof having the disease spread. Therefore, we wanted to assess the Knowledge,Attitudes and Practices of Health Care Professionals in AL-Ain Medical District towardsAvian Flu.Methods: By a cross sectional survey, 166 ER, PHC doctors and nurses in Al Ainmedical district were assessed by anonymous questionnaires in November 2005.Results: Our study revealed that there is statistical significant correlation betweenscoring of knowledge and the following: nationality (P-value= 0.022), profession (Pvalue=0.000), level of education (P-value= 0.000), place of work P-value=0.021 andsubjective assessment of participant’s knowledge (P-value=0.003). The majority ofhealth care professionals (88%) got their knowledge about bird flu from the media,although the majority of them prefer lectures (81%) and written information (71%) toimprove their knowledge.Conclusion: There is a need to improve the knowledge about bird flu among healthcare professionals since its important issue. Lectures, workshops and othereducational programs will be helpful sources.

Project No. 223 (2006)Predictors of Smoking Intention and Smoking Status among Male Students(Grades 7 & 9) in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Afra Abdulla Humaid Al Dhaheri, Asma Ali Naser Saeed A. AlHumairi, Fatma Mahmoud Fateh Ali Al Khajah, Majida Saeed Ali Sultan Al-Shamsi,Maryam Mohd Sultan Al-ReyamiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. RoosBernsenAbstract:Objectives: To study the prevalence of smoking risk factors among the students in AlAin governmental schools (grades 7 and 9), identifying the smoking status of thisgroup and what influenced the smokers to smoke, identifying the most common initialtype of smoking used by those who tried smoking and the most popular type ofsmoking among those who smoke, and studying the knowledge of students at this agetowards smoking’s harmful effects and their perception of the risks and benefits theymight achieve by smoking.Methods: Study conducted in Al Ain city, UAE between 28 January 2006 and 1February 2006. A sample of students in grades 7 and 9 of Al Ain government schoolsin the urban area were chosen to represent the population of the study. The study isa cross-sectional descriptive and analytic survey designed to detect the predictors ofsmoking intention and status. The data were collected through self-administeredArabic questionnaires to the students. Data was analyzed with SPSS. Observeddifferences were tested for significance using Chi-Square.Results: About one in three of male students studying in Al Ain urban governmentschools (grades 7 and 9) have experienced smoking. More students are progressingfrom experimenter to smokers as they reach the 9th grade. Only 1% of those whohave never tried smoking intend to smoke in the future. Most of the students in bothgrades started smoking during the past year. The age at which most students firstexperienced smoking is 13. The most common type of smoking the students tried asa first experience was cigarette smoking, but more students are being invited tosmoke pipe. Factors that most influenced smokers to smoke the first time includepeer pressure, having a family member who smokes, and availability andadvertisement to smoking products. UAE national students have more smokerbrothers than fathers. The non-UAE national students have more fathers smokingthan brothers. The parents were successful in communicating their strongdisagreement on smoking. Students had good knowledge about the harmful effects ofsmoking. Quarter of the students perceived benefits from smoking, but the majorityalso perceived social and physical risks from smoking.Conclusion: Incidence of smoking is increasing among Al Ain male students who studyin urban government schools. More students are using or being invited to pipesmoking nowadays compared to the past. Smoking is shifting towards the youngerages. These changes are the consequences of peer pressure, a family membersmoking, and marketing of tobacco products. Controlling tobacco smoking requires alot of effort to increase the student perception of harm caused by smoking, techniquesto resist peer pressure, and regulations to control tobacco marketing in the country.

Project No. 224 (2006)Consumption of Fish among Emirati Women of Childbearing Age in Al Ain withSpecial Reference to the Consumption of Canned Tuna with Potential HighMercury ContentStudent Authors: Asma Ahmed Rashed Al-Nuaimi, Hussa Sultan Yousef Al-Zaabi,Reem Matar Hamad Al-Mehairi, Zainab Ibrahim Abdulla QassimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: With the perception of high consumption of fish among the population ofUAE, to study the consumption of fish by Emirati women of childbearing age in Al AinCity with reference to its mercury content.Methods: The study design is a cross- sectional descriptive survey of 125 Emiratiwomen attending Preventive Medicine and Primary Health Care centers in Al-Ain.Interview-administered questionnaires were used, data entered by Access andanalyzed in SPSS.Results: Response rate was 100%. Regarding fresh fish, 98% consume fresh fish and2% don’t. The results showed an intake of Shark for more than twice a week, whichexceeds the FDA recommendation, was (10%) and for Albacore (19%). On the otherhand, Swordfish was eaten less than twice a week (10%). About canned fish, (78%)were eating canned fish and (22%) were not eating. Unexpectedly the type of tunaconsumed (White and Light) was equally the same (34%). And (24%) were havingboth types. The degree of knowledge of participants about heavy metal exposure(Mercury) was low. Its relation with the education level was significant with a P valueof (0.03).Conclusion: The study revealed a high level of consumption of fish by Emirati womenin Al-Ain without recognizing its potential harm. Nevertheless they are totally awareabout the benefits that they can get from eating fish. The public health should play abig role in providing information for these women regarding the proper intake of fishand its relevant mercury level.

Project No. 225 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Beliefs Among Female High School Students inGrade 12, in Al Ain, regarding HIV/AIDS - An Intervention Study - Group 1Student Authors: Sheikha Ghareeb Salem Al-Kaabi, Dalal Saeed Naser Al-Mansoori,Amnah Ali Humaid Mohd Yammahi,Wadha Ali Rashed Abdulla Al-NeaimiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Assuming that there is an insufficient knowledge of HIV/AIDS amongyoung population in United Arab Emirates and their unsupportive, stigmatizingattitudes towards HIV/AIDS people, we decided to target the high school femalestudents, grade 12 in Al-Ain to assess and improve their knowledge, attitude andbeliefs toward HIV/AIDS through educational intervention study.Methods: Multistage stratified random sampling was used. Five female governmenthigh schools in Al-Ain were selected randomly. Self administered questionnaires andeducational interventions were used and data was analyzed using SPSS program.Results: The total sample was 482. Before the intervention, 19% of the respondentshad good knowledge and this rate increased dramatically to 88% after theintervention. Although majority of students knew the correct abbreviations of HIV andAIDS, there were many misconceptions about routes of transmission. Mosquito bites(58%), blood donation (74%), food, sharing combs and kissing on the cheeks wereincorrectly identified as routes of transmission. Only 22% of the participants agreedthat HIV positive students should attend ordinary schools with others. Most of theparticipating students wanted to know more about HIV/AIDS and its incidence in theUAE. Media was the main source of knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among the studypopulation. However, according to the participants health professionals were the mosttrusted source of knowledge.Conclusion: Majority of students had moderate knowledge about HIV. However, manyof them had a lot of misconceptions about its modes of transmission. There was anegative, discriminative attitude toward HIV positive people. Theses results wereimproved after intervention indicating the successfulness of the intervention.

Project No. 226 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Beliefs Among Female High School Students inGrade 12, in Al Ain, regarding HIV/AIDS - An Intervention Study - Group 2Student Authors: Sharina Matar Salem Al-Dhaheri, Aysha Ahmed Mohd ShareefKhouri, Hala Khalifa Hassan Saeed Al-Ketbi, Fatheyah Abdulla mohd AwadhiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: The number of HIV infected people is rising constantly world wide. Youngpeople are considered to be at high risk of getting HIV due to the fact that they aremore involved in risky behaviors. Effective strategies are needed to reduce the risk ofgetting HIV among young population. Our study is an interventional study. This studyaims are to assess the knowledge, beliefs and attitudes of grade 12 female students inAl-Ain concerning the HIV/AIDS and to increase the awareness and promote positiveattitudes towards people with living HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) through an educationalintervention.Methods: Multistage stratified random sampling was used. This interventional studywas conducted in 5 female government high schools in Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates.Structural, self administered questionnaire was used as a main data collectinginstruments. A 90 minutes interventional program consists of a presentation and 3workshops in total of 90 minutes.Results: A total of 538 students have been involved in the study. The students hadinsufficient knowledge about HIV/AIDS, misconceptions about modes of transmissionand unsupportive stigmatizing attitudes towards PLWHA. A statistically significantimprovement in HIV related knowledge pre and post intervention among students wasabout 25% (p= 0.000). Improvement in HIV related beliefs and attitudes pre and postintervention was around 42% (p=0.000).Conclusion: This study is one of the few interventional studies aiming to improve theknowledge about HIV/AIDS and reduce the discriminatory attitudes towards PLWHAamong adolescents. Young people are at higher risk of experimenting with drugs andsexual activities. Stigma and discrimination, however, remain potent barriers totesting, counseling and treatment. It is the whole community responsibility to createan environment in which young people can talk openly about the serious issuesconcerning them.

Project No. 227 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Beliefs Among Female High School Students inGrade 12, in Abu Dhabi, regarding HIV/AIDS - An Intervention Study - Group3Student Authors: Shama Matar Hamad Al-Muhairy, Amal Salem A Balhamedh Al-Jaberi, Jamila Saif Senan Al-DhaheriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: In 1981, when Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was firstrecognized, it did not seem to be an unusual challenge. Five years later, the diseasehad assumed epidemic proportions, crossing frontiers and creating profound difficultiesfor public health authorities worldwide in attempting to halt the spread of the HIVvirus. The extraordinarily high fatality and the modes of transmission and associatedbehavioural patterns raised questions about the adequacy of defences against thisdisease .With no treatment or cure in sight, the disease continues to spread at analarming rate(1). The adolescents and young adults are the vulnerable group andthey are at a very high risk as they are most likely at this age will face the first sexualcontacts and some of them may experienced with drugs . Therefore educationalintervention should be introduced to high schools. Our study will target the high schoolfemale students and will assess there knowledge and attitude regarding HIV beforeand after introducing an educational intervention. Our aim is to increase theawareness and help in prevention of HIV.Methods: Through a multistage random sampling, a total of 378 grade 12 femalestudents from Abu-Dhabi were included in the study. Their knowledge and attitudewere assessed using a questionnaire before and after the educational intervention. TheIntervention consist of a short presentation about HIV and three workshops to enforcethe knowledge about modes of transmission and to make the students sympathizedwith people living with HIV.Results: The students mean knowledge performance was around 61% beforeintervention and improved to 74% after intervention (18% improvement). Concerningthe attitude, the students mean attitude performance was around 50% beforeintervention and improved to 78.5% after intervention (28.5% improvement). Most ofthe students (83%) strongly agree that young people need to know how to protectthem selves against AIDS. 48% of the students chose medical professional as themost trusted source of knowledge. Some misconceptions about modes of transmissionwere evident in the study, 69% of the students before the intervention thought thatHIV can be transmitted by Mosquito and after the intervention this percentage wasreduced to 4%.Conclusion: There is a lack of basic knowledge about HIV and a lot of misconceptionsabout the modes of transmission as it was evident from the baseline assessmentbefore the intervention. There is an agreement that young people need to know howto protect them selves against AIDS as it was stated by 83% of the study sample. Theeducational intervention was effective in increasing the awareness, correcting themisconceptions about the modes of transmission and promoting more positive attitudetoward people living with HIV. There is a need to generalize this intervention toinclude all high schools in UAE. Also using the media to increase the awareness amonggeneral population should be an option.

Project No. 228 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Usage of Anabolic Steroids Among GymUsers in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Khaled Mohd Assad Abdulraheem, Omar Salem Al-Falasi, KhaledAmer Mohd Ahmed El-Eisaie, Salem Hmoud Salem Al-AmeriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. J. Schneider, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: To assess the source of the knowledge of anabolic steroids (AS), todetermine the association between knowledge, attitude and practice of AS and sociodemographicfactors, and to evaluate the awareness regarding the health hazards ofAS.To determine the correlation between knowledge of AS and the attitude and practicetowards AS.Methods: Setting: Gyms of Al-Ain city (3 hotels, 3 social & 12 commercial clubs).Study Period: May 2006. Study design: Cross sectional descriptive and analyticsurvey designed to assessed knowledge, attitude and practice of AS. StudyPopulation: Gym users (no age, gender or nationality restriction). Data collectionInstrument: Self administered questionnaires were distributed to all gym-usersentering and leaving the selected gyms by the researchers during the study period andrefusals were noted.Results: The prevalence of misuse of AS in Al-Ain city was very high (22%). It wassignificantly higher among UAE nationals. It was significantly higher among bodybuilders and weight lifters. It was significantly higher among commercial clubs users.Despite awareness of adverse consequences of AS, 7% of non-users were planning forfuture use. The users perceived more benefits of AS than harms. There wasunregulated sources of AS. It's easy to obtain AS in AL-AinConclusion: The results of the study were very alarming. This might be due to the factthat most AS users were not aware about the potential risks associated with AS abuse.Implementation of programmes devoted for increasing the public awareness isessential and may help avoiding the propagation of the problem.Keywords: gym users, knowledge, attitude, practice of anabolic steroids, Al-Ain city

Project No. 229 (2006)Water Safety - Drowning Prevention in the Eastern Coast Cities of UAEStudent Authors: Musaab Ali Alhmed Mohd, Anwar Naser Mohd Al-Zaabi, EbrahimHelal Mubarak Al-Zaabi, Abdulla Karami Salem Bin AshourFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Accidental drowning has devastating consequences. Most of these tragicepisodes could have been prevented with simple precautionary measure. Drowninghas not been reported as a leading cause of death in UAE. Consequently, there hasalso not been much research or interest in this area. A study conducted by a team offaculty and students from FMHS in Al Ain city (2005) concluded that many youths in AlAin city overestimated their swimming ability when measured against their actualcapability of swimming a length or portion of a swimming pool. Only 22 per cent ofself-reported strong swimmers were able to swim one length of a pool. The UAE has700 kilometers of coastline, including 100 kilometers on the Gulf of Oman. It boastssome of the best beaches in the region. Studies regarding drowning incidents andwater safety measures in the east coast cities are lacking.Methods: The study was based in Eastern Coast Cities of the UAE. We conducted aself-administered survey of grade 10 male and female high school students.Results: 377 students have been enrolled in the study; they were male and femalestudents in Eastern Coast Cities schools in the Tenth Grade. Students ranged in agesfrom 14 to 18 years, with 93% between 15 and 17 years. 29% of students haveswimming pools at home. 43% of male students reported that they are strongswimmers. On the other hand, few female students reported to be strong swimmerswith more than half of them non-swimmers. Students also believed that 75% of theirfathers and 2% of mothers are strong swimmers. Regarding relationship betweenswimming ability and distance of swimming ability, most of the students' perceptionsof swimming ability were inaccurate, since if appeared that many students who believethey are strong swimmers were seemingly unable to swim even one length of the pool.This finding has been elucidated by cross tabulating self-reported swimming abilitywith their self-reported ability to swim a full length or less of a swimming pool. Mostlyall students agree that learning swimming is important for children. Only 2% of thestudents think that learning swimming is not important. Although most of the students(36%) of students recommend the parents to be the swimming instructors, 60% ofthem said that schools’ pools are the best place to teach children how to swim. Inspite of that, only 2% had received teaching from a school program and 7% fromanother program. 53% of students moderately or strongly believe that teachingchildren how to swim substitutes for supervision. More than half of students think thatchild drowning is due to careless parents. Lack of safety equipment has also been animportant factor. Quarter of students blamed child or destiny.Conclusion: Drowning is one of neglected causes of unintentional home injury inwhich a devastating result could happen in the form of either death or severe braindamage. Some research has been undertaken in the UAE about this subject. In ourresearch we found a lack in organized swimming program in Eastern Coast Cities ofthe UAE. Most of the children were taught by there parents how to swim. There ishuge difference in practice and belief regarding drowning prevention precautionsamong students. Most of the home swimming pools are not fitted with thestandardized safety precautions such as vertical fence bars and automatically closingand self latching gates.

Project No. 230 (2006)Pool Safety Among Vendors, Installers and Owners in UAEStudent Authors: Mohammed Juma Al-Oraimi, Mubarak Hamad Al-Darmaki, AhmedMihd Al-SaqqafFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Swimming pool in the yard can be very dangerous for children. Drowningis a frequent cause of child injury death in the Middle East, according to a study donein Al Ain region, in the United Arab Emirates (2005) 75% of students stated thatdrowning is nearly all or mostly preventable, 34% blamed drowning on carelessness ofthe child and 37% on fate or destiny. Other side of the issue is the swimming poolsvendors and installers that should be included in our assessment and investigations oftheir knowledge and safety practices of vendors and owners. The objective of ourstudy is to improve pool safety and prevent drowning in the swimming pools in UAE.Methods: A cross sectional survey of all swimming pool vendors, installers and ownersin the UAE was carried out in May 2006 using self administered questionnaires andthrough phone calls designed to assess their knowledge and safety practicesResults: The response rate in our study among the swimming pools vendors was 52%(n= 24 out of 46). On the other hand, 39 questionnaires were completed for the poolowners out of 50 with response rate of 78%. 79% of the swimming pools vendors’headquarters were in the UAE and most of them in Dubai. 96% of the vendors soldhome pools. Only 41% of vendors provided written materials to the swimming poolsowners regarding pools safety and injuries. 55% provided verbal information. Only39% of vendors sold fences. Only 35% sold gates. 13% sold tensile hinges andchildproof self-latching devices. The most common type of fencing sold is the verticalbars (78%). Most of the vendors did not sell gates (61%). Most of those who did notsell gates recommend the self closing and self latching 60% gates, whereas 40%recommended manual closing and locking gates. The age group in the vendors’ andowners opinion, at highest risk of falling into and drowning in home pools is 1-4 years83% and 82% respectively. Most of the vendors and owners thought that the activesafety measures (e.g. education of parents, constant supervision and swimmingtraining for 1-4 years old) is more effective than passive measures (e.g. completeenclosure by fences and gates, pool covers and pool alarms). Regarding the spinalcord injuries which result from diving in swimming pools 29% of our vendors and 36%of our owners mentioned that the risk of spinal cord injuries is high. The majority ofthe vendors recommended that the minimum safe depth of home pools for divingranging between 2.5 to 3.5 meters while most of the owners think that it should be 4meters.Conclusion: 41% of pool vendors claimed that they provided written information to theowners. However, only 18% of owners had received written information. Lowpercentages of vendors sell fences and gates, (39% and 35%) respectively. Regardingrecommendations on the best type of fences that should be use, 43% had no idea.Most of the vendors recommended the self-closing self-latching gates. However, smallpercentages of them sell these equipments, which show their carelessness. 62% of thevendors thought that the risk of spinal injury from diving was moderate to high. 62%of the owners thought that it was low.

Project No. 231 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Beliefs Among High School Male Students in Grade12 regarding HIV/AIDS - an Intervention StudyStudent Authors: Ebrahim Abdulla Rashed Al-Shamsi, Hamdan Hamed Matar AtallaAl-Baloushi, Abdulla Mohd Obaid Ali Al-Badawy, Mohd Ali Abdulla KarajiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Since its first recognition in 1981, it is estimated that more than 47 millionpeople world wide are infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Anestimate of 16,000 new cases is being reported every day, indicating a constantincrease in the numbers of people being infected with HIV. The young population,especially those between the ages of 15-26, represent about 50% of all those infected.Thus, it is an important population and a crucial age to protect, as HIV/AIDS is onemajor threat to their health. Therefore, effective strategies are important to reducethe risk and protect this population. Furthermore, the stigma that HIV/AIDS leavebehind is one great obstacle facing those people living with HIV (PLWHA), leadingthem to defer from seeking treatment, care, support, services and information,especially in this country.Methods: A cross-sectional survey (descriptive and analytic) was used during May2006 to assess the knowledge, attitude and beliefs of Grade 12 male high schoolstudents in Al-Ain district area regarding HIV/AIDS, followed by an educationalintervention with evaluation pre and post intervention. Multistage stratified randomsampling was used. Four male government high schools in Al-Ain were selected from alist of 8 schools obtained from the educational department of Al Ain district. Thestudents were chosen by selecting randomly 4 twelve-grade classes. We randomlyselected 2 classes from arts and 2 from science. Each class consists of 25-35 students.The number of the classes was adjusted proportionally to the size of the schools. Inwhich all of them were interviewed and got intervention. A total of 505 students fromAl Ain were involved in this study. All high school male students between the ages of16 to 19 years, who agreed to be interviewed, were included in this study.Results: The mean score for knowledge prior to the intervention was calculated to be12.5 points (66%) +/- 2 and 13 point +/- 3(70%) after the intervention. There wassignificance (P=0.000), when comparing the mean knowledge scores of the studentspre and post intervention, with an improvement of 4%. When assessing the level ofknowledge, 23% had a good knowledge, 67% had moderate knowledge, and 10% hadpoor knowledge prior to the intervention. After the intervention, 47% had goodknowledge, 39% had moderate knowledge, and 14% had poor knowledge.The mean score for attitude prior to the intervention was calculated to be 6.57 points(44%) +/- 3.2 and 7.74 point +/- 3.2(52%) after the intervention. There wassignificance (P=0.000), when comparing the mean attitude score pre and postintervention, with an improvement of 8%. When assessing the level of attitude, 8%had a good attitude, 27% had moderate attitude, and 66% had poor attitude prior tothe intervention. After the intervention, 12% had good attitude, 40% had moderateattitude, and 48% had poor attitude.Conclusion: This study is one of the few interventional studies aiming to preventHIV/AIDS by improving knowledge and changing attitudes about HIV/AIDS. Youngpeople are the highest risk group. As the stigma and attitude of people towards AIDSinfected people is still unchanged, there will be a wall keeping them from seekingcounseling and treatment. The application of a good educational intervention, like theone used here, with a proper assessment, and keeping in mind all the limitations thatfaced this study is the key point to achieve that aim. The lack of knowledge andmisconceptions about AIDS are still there, the attitude is still to be changed. But itrequires the effort of all the sectors, starting from the media reaching to the healthprofessional.

Project No. 232 (2006)Prevalence of Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms Among UAE UniversityFemale Medical and Information Technology StudentsStudent Authors: Sara Ahmed Mohd Al-Dallal, Manal Abdulkarim Al-Belooshi, MaithaMohd Al-Khader, Catherine Peckett (Univ of London UK)Faculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Depression and anxiety are common symptoms among medical students.We aimed to determine the prevalence of both symptoms among female medical andIT students in the UAE University and investigate the difference between students indifferent faculties.Methods: The study design was a cross-sectional analytic survey of 120 medical and120 IT students in UAEU. Self-administered questionnaire was used8; data wasentered by Access and analyzed in SPSS.Results: The response rate was 100%. 53% of medical and 54% of IT studentsshowed depressive symptoms; 9% of medical and 23% of IT students reported‘severe’ or ‘extremely severe’ symptoms (p=0.003). 68% of medical students and69% of IT students reported symptoms of anxiety; 23% of medical and 30% of ITstudents reported ‘severe’ or ‘extremely severe’ symptoms. Medical students indicatedmore than IT students that living away from home was stressor (p=0.024). Thedifference between age and expected year of study had a significant effect (p=0.013)on depressive symptoms; a student older than her group was more likely to reportdepressive symptoms.Conclusion: Medical and IT students were similar in expressing mild and moderateanxiety and depressive symptoms. The results of both symptoms showed that ITstudents were significantly more severely depressed than medical students. Bothgroups reported living away from home as a significant stressor.

Project No. 233 (2006)Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour towards Antibiotic Use Among Parents inAl Ain City, United Arab EmiratesStudent Authors: Fatma Saeed Al-Khatri, Maryam Mohd Al-Neaimi, Salma HamadAl-Darmaki, Khulood Younus Al-Redha, Amal Mohd Al-Tenaiji, Salma Ismail Al-HosaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Prof. N. Nagelkerke, Dr. M. El SadigAbstract:Objectives: Unnecessary antibiotic use is a well-documented risk factor for infectionwith resistant bacteria. There are increased concerns about antibiotic-prescribingpatterns worldwide. With a goal of changing the present beliefs and practices aboutantibiotic use, the aim of this study is to assess the current knowledge, attitudes andbehavior towards antibiotic use among parents in Al-Ain city, United Arab Emirates.Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 250 parents of children

Project No. 234 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Contact Lens Care Among MedicalStudents at UAE UniversityStudent Authors: Sara Abdulrahman Al-Shaikh, Rasha Essa Buhumaid, Maryam EidAl-Suwaidi, Mariam Rashed Al-Zaabi, Khawla Ali Al-GhardaqaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Because a significant number of local medical students reporteddeveloping complications caused by Contact Lenses (CL), we have decided to assesthe knowledge, attitude and practices of contact lens care among medical students inUnited Arab Emirates (UAE).Methods: A cross sectional analytic study was carried out among all medical studentsin two medical schools using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzedusing SPSS.Results: A total of 395 students participated in this study; the response rate was92%. 41% of students wear CL. 41% had purchased them without even seeing aneye-care provider. 16% of users wear colored CL only for cosmetic purposes. 37% ofthe subjects were found to have poor knowledge regarding CL care and possiblecomplications. 56% of the study population had poor CL care practices. Regardingstudents perception of their own care for CL, only 23% believed that their care for CLwas inadequate. Female students had better knowledge and hygiene practicescompared to the males (p=0.003 & 0.022 respectively). The main sources ofinformation about CL were the media and the internet. 13% reported that they haddeveloped complications in the past related to the use of contact lens. 4% had cornealulcers and 4 % had keratitis. There was a statistically significant association betweenthe development of corneal abrasions/ulcers and using tap water to clean their CL(p=0.024).Conclusion: Although two thirds of the study sample had adequate knowledgeregarding CL care. However, more than half had poor practice which is an alarmingissue. Therefore, there is a need for health education program regarding CL caretargeting medical students since they are future health care providers.

Project No. 235 (2006)Mothers' Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Childhood Immunization in Al-AinCity, UAE 2006Student Authors: Fatmah Rashed Saeed Sorour Al-Zahmi, Noura Abduljabbar MohdAl-Ali, Rowayah Obaid Rashed Saeed Hamoudi, Noura Ahmed Ghalib AliFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Al Mutawa, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R.BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Childhood vaccination is one of the most beneficial and cost-effectivemeans of preventing infectious diseases. Parents’ belief and attitudes are importantfactors that influence childhood immunization uptake. With vaccination coverage ofabout 94.3% in 2005 in the UAE, the challenge is how to maintain high levels ofvaccination. In the absence of vaccine preventable diseases, parents may not seethose as a threat. Such an attitude may lead to a drop in the vaccination coverageresulting in epidemics in the future. We believe that it is important to evaluate theknowledge and attitude of mothers towards child vaccination since they are keydeterminants of good vaccination coverage.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among mothers in Al- Ain in 2006,using self-administered questionnaires. Data was analyzed using SPSS.Results: The majority of mothers immunize their children because they believe itprevents against diseases (99%) and due to doctors’ advice (82%). Ninety twopercent of participants know that vaccine preventable diseases (VPD) are serious lifethreatening that better be prevented and 63% of them thought that VPD are not easilytreated. More than half of participants passively receive information regardingimmunization (56%) while only 36% of them receive information actively. The majorsource of their information was the media (52%) while only 29% of them got theirinformation from medical professionals. Knowledge of individual vaccines ranged from80%-22%. The majority of the mothers (88%) were aware of the starting time of theimmunization program. Almost all of the mothers believed that it’s important tocomplete the immunization schedule (98%) and to be on time (92%). Only 1% of therespondents reported that their children are not fully vaccinated.Conclusion: The majority of mothers demonstrated a good level of knowledge aboutthe importance of children immunization. Experience and education are importantdeterminants of the level of knowledge. The media was found to constitute the majorsource of information to mothers. An attitude-practice-gap exits.

Project No. 236 (2006)Evaluation of Short Educational Sessions' Efficacy in Improving theKnowledge and Attitude Towards Cars' Restraints Among Governmental HighSchool Students in Al Ain DistrictStudent Authors: Mohdy Atiq Abdulrahman Al-Atiq, Haifa Khaled Saeed MohdAwadhi, Muna Ahmed Ali Hussain HammadiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: The number of road traffic related crashes is increasing dramatically in theUAE. The risky behaviors of young people put them at high risk of being injured insuch crashes. Effective strategies are needed to reduce the crash related morbidityand mortality. This study is considered the first interventional study to increase theknowledge and improve the attitude towards cars’ restraints in the UAE. The aim ofthis interventional study is to assess the knowledge and attitudes of grade 12 studentsin Al Ain towards the effectiveness of cars’ restrains. Reduction in morbidity andmortality associated with car crashes is our ultimate goal.Methods: Multistage stratified random sampling was used. The study was conducted attwo male and two female governmental high schools in Al Ain District. Structural selfadministered questionnaire was used as the main data collecting instruments. A 45minute interventional program consists of a short presentation and one workshop wasused.Results: A total of 280 students were involved in the study. The student had sufficientknowledge regarding the importance of cars’ restraints. So, no significantimprovement in knowledge pre and post intervention was noted. On the other hand, asignificant improvement in attitude was achieved after the intervention (Pvalue=0.007) .Conclusion: This study is considered to be the first interventional study in the UAE andone of the few interventional studies world wide. This study is aiming to improve theknowledge and attitudes towards the effectiveness of using cars’ restrains in reducingthe morbidity and mortality of crash related injuries. It was noted that the participantshad good knowledge about cars’ restraints before the intervention. Most of theparticipants showed a positive attitude towards using cars’ restraints after theintervention.

Project No. 237 (2006)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Government High School Students inGrade 10 Regarding Fast Food in Al-Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Aysha Abdulla Mohd Khalfan Al-Kaabi, Anfal Mohd Obaid Al-Mazrooei, Huda Saif Obaid Al-Dhaheri, Aysha Ahmed Mohamed Al-Dhaheri, BaheyyaMahfoodh Mohd Al-ShehhiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. P. Barss, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: The UAE has undergone rapid transformation to a high standard of livingfor citizens. This has been accompanied by the introduction of many unhealthy fastand junk foods, contributing to alarming increases in cardiovascular diseases, obesity,and diabetes. We decided to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices of grade 10students at government schools about fast-food consumption, as a basis for improvingyoung people’s knowledge and practices to prevent nutrition-related health conditions.Methods: Using multistage stratified random sampling and a self-administeredquestionnaire, 390 Arab students were interviewed at government schools inNovember-December, 2006. Questions were designed to assess knowledge aboutdiseases associated with common unhealthy foods, as well as consumption practices.Anthropometric measurements were taken.Results: The response rate was 99%. The sample included 395 students, 67% of thethem were local and 33% from other nationalities. 48% of the students reportedeating from brand name American restaurants once a week, 22% eat three times perweek, 20% eat more than three times per week and only 10% of the students nevereat from brand name restaurants. Good taste and breaking the routine were the maintwo reasons for fast food consumption. 79% of the students have poor knowledgeabout fast food. Female students have better level of knowledge than male students(p=0.000). 65% of the students were against banning fast food advertisement by thegovernment and 56% support the idea of selling fast food in schools.Conclusion: Government, health professionals, media and schools should take part inplanning educational interventions to improve students’ nutritional knowledge anddietary practices. In addition, government should assess other interventions, such aslegislation, to modify food consumption patterns.

Project No. 238 (2006)Health and Safety Survey of Carpenters and Carpentry Workshops in Al AinIndustrial AreaStudent Authors: Khaldoon Hamad Al-Khaldi, Meshal Abdulkarim Sultan,Mohammed Nasser Al-Suwaidi, Abdulla Ahmed Askar, Fayez ibrahim Al-ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Introduction: Carpenters because of the nature of their job, are particularly prone tohand trauma and respiratory diseases. Barrage et al in a review of hand and lowerarm injuries in New Zealand between 1979 and 1988 found that 37% were workrelated.Among the highest risk occupations in this respect were carpenters with aninjury rate of 2.2 per thousand. Another study done in New Zealand on 1992 statedthat the wood workers reported experiencing higher rates of both lower and upperrespiratory tract symptoms than a control group of office workers. Most of thecarpenters in Al Ain are employed in small, poorly supervised workshops, providinglittle in the way safe systems of work or safe equipment. In addition the majority ofthose engaged in manual work are recruited from the sub continent with limitededucation, particularly trade including health and safety, training.Methods: We did a descriptive cross-sectional survey of 74 workshops in carpentrysector of the industrial area of Al Ain city. Interview-administered questionnaires andpeak expiratory flow rate measurement devices were used, and data analyzed inSPSS.Results: Response was 62/74 shops; 99/110 carpenters responded. 32% hadrespiratory symptoms due to wood dust. 14.1% had hand disability due to fingersamputation. Powered table saws accounted for all injuries. Majority of the shops lackthe safety measures of the powered tools. 88.7% did not have fire proof locker forflammable substances. 56% of the shops had fire extinguisher.Conclusion: It is thought that although there has been some attempt at OH&Sregulation, the policing of that regulation to date has been poor. This survey wouldseem to confirm those findings and the absence of safe workplaces, procedures andpractices in this area.

Project No. 239 (2007)Attitude and Knowledge of First Year University Students Towards Smokingand Its Impact on HealthStudent Authors: Khawla Rashed Ahmed Al-Shehhi, Hefsa Rashed Humaid Al-Shamsi, Naema Salem Saeed Al-Kaabi, Alya Ali Mehad Al-SuwaidiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Smoking is a worldwide problem that has always been a challenge tohealth care programs all over the world. It is considered one of the preventable causesof death. The prevalence is increasing among Al Ain male students who study in urbangovernment schools (1). The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and attitudeof male and female students in the University General Requirement Unit (UGRU) inUnited Arab Emirates University towards smoking and its impact on health, and to helpdevelop better preventive measures.Methods: The study was a cross sectional survey, 2007. The target group was UGRUstudents. Sampling was multistage. Classes were selected randomly which included 11classes of female students and 13 classes of male students. Self-administeredquestionnaires consisting of 39 structured questions were distributed to the studentsfor assessing their attitude, knowledge and opinion about risks of smoking. The studypopulation included 396 students, 352 Emirati and 44 non-Emirati. Data analysis wasdone using SPSS. Different properties were used such as frequencies, crosstabulations, and observed differences were tested for significance using Chi-square.Results: Both male and female students had fairly good knowledge about the healthimpact of smoking on smokers and their spouses. However, their knowledge abouthealth of smoking on children was lagging behind especially with male students whoshowed lower percentage. Regarding male and female students opinion about theharm of smoking, 47% of males consider it as a bad habit while 58% of femalesconsider it as an addiction. 49% of males and 51% females would consider quittingsmoking as moderately difficult. On the other hand, 24% of males believe that quittingis not difficult. 51% of male students think that peer pressure is the main cause tostart smoking while 51% of female students think that stress is the major cause.Conclusion: Systematic educational programs regarding smoking and its effect onsmoker’s health, partners and children health must be established in early stages todrag the students' attention toward this risky behavior. Second hand smoking issuesmust be taken into consideration as the students underestimate its risk. Smoking mustbe forbidden in schools, universities and public places in general to restrict smokingbehaviors. Male students should know more about the addictive effect of tobaccosmoking. More health promotion campaigns should be carried out in the schools toemphasize the negative effects of smoking. Efforts should be done in order to changethe wrong impression that male students share about smokers being more attractiveand powerful. Selling of cigarette and other types of smoking must be restricted tocertain age group to prevent initiation of this behavior in young ages. Media withcooperation of Ministry of Health must establish educational material in TVs, cinema,street and shopping malls to spread the knowledge of smoking risk. Copies of thisproject should be distributed to the responsible people in schools and preventivemedicine in order to increase the awareness among young adults.

Project No. 240 (2007)Knowledge and Attitude Towards Common Hereditary Hemolytic Anemia andHIV Infection Among High School Students Grade 12 in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Sumayya Saleh Ebrahim Al-Hamrooni, Salama Jamal Hussain BinRefea, Fatima Saleh Mohammed Al-Shehhi, Khulood Abdulla Salem Al-MazrooeiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. P. Barss, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: Hereditary hemolytic anemia (HHA), consisting of G6PD deficiency,thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, has been considered as a major health problem inmany countries including the United Arab Emirates, nevertheless, the prevalence is notdecreasing due to lack of knowledge of these diseases among UAE population.Because of the high prevalence in UAE, effective strategies are needed to prevent itsspread to the future generation. The aim of this study is to measure the knowledgeand the attitude of high school students, grade 12 toward the common HHA (G6PDdeficiency, thalassemia and sickle cell anemia) in the country, as a step towarddecreasing the prevalence of those diseases among the population. It also aims tocompare there view on premarital screening.Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in four government highschools (males and females) in Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates. Multistage stratifiedrandom sampling was used. Structural, self administered questionnaire was used as amain data collecting instruments. Data analysis was done using SPSS.Results: A total of 374 students were involved in the study. The students haveinsufficient knowledge about hereditary hemolytic anemia. However, they have agood attitude towards the genetic counseling and premarital screening of thosediseases. Regarding HIV, most of the students think that it is a more stigmatizingdisease and they showed a positive attitude towards its premarital screening.Conclusion: This study is one of the few studies that were conducted to assess theknowledge among high school students grade 12 about hereditary hemolytic anemiawhich is a common issue in the UAE. The results supported our hypothesis that themajority of the students have poor knowledge about hereditary hemolytic anemia.However, they have a positive attitude towards HHA and HIV premarital screening.

Project No. 241 (2007)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Females in Grade 10 TowardsMenstruation in Al Ain Government SchoolsStudent Authors: Wadeyya S Sultan Mohd Al-Mazrooei, Hind Saleh Mubarak Al-Dhaheri, Budoor Abdulqader Abdulla Al-Emadi, Baheyya Mahfoodh Mohd Al-ShehhiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Schneider, Prof. T.C. Aw, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. R.BernsenAbstract:Objectives: The over all aim is to promote health education and women’s health. Theobjectives of this study include: to assess and compare the knowledge with thepractice and attitude towards menstruation, to study the prevalence of menstrualdiscomfort, and to assess the self-reported methods of relieving menstrual discomfortand how it affects school activities.Methods: The study was conducted in Al-Ain city, United Arab Emirates between (dateto date). A sample of students in grade 10 of Al-Ain government schools in the urbanarea were chosen to represent the population of this study.Results: The initial and major source of knowledge about menstruation was frommother and school. It was found that the higher education of the mother, the morelikelihood she will be the initial source of knowledge fro her daughter. The grade atwhich school most students received their teaching in schools was grade 6 (45%) andgrade 7 (25%) respectively. Half of students had acceptable level of knowledge, andthe other half had insufficient. About 24% of subjects have faulty knowledgeregarding exercise during period. In addition, that section has negative attitudetoward exercise during their menstruation. About 95% of students had negativeattitude toward birth control pills. There were variant attitudes toward consultingfamily doctor regarding their menstrual problems. About 50% of the studentsconsidered menstruation a representative of growth, 9% enjoyed this experience and10% had negative attitude. 50% of students use over-the-counter medication torelieve menstrual pain. Menstrual symptoms seemed to impair school performance.Conclusion: Great number of Al Ain female students in grade 10 had insufficientknowledge, so educating girls about menstruation before its commencement isimportant to prepare them emotionally. Mothers and school-nurses should be involvedmore in the education process as they are important sources of knowledge. The faultyknowledge and mistaken attitudes prevalent among adolescents support the argumentthat female adolescents would benefit from health education about menstruation.

Project No. 242 (2007)Perceptions Regarding Doctors' Professional Appearance and the Effect onDoctor-Patient Relationship by Governmental Hospitals' PatientsStudent Authors: Eman Moh'd Ahmed Al Amil Al Hayayi, Mawaheb Malalla Naseed AlWedami, Maitha Mohammed Salem Al DareiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. J. Schneider, Prof. T.C. Aw, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: At times, doctors have been encouraged to wear the white coat forfunctional and hygienic reasons. Doctors wearing white coats were recognized as beingmore professional and found to be preferable. Doctors’ appearance is an importanttopic because it may affect the doctor-patient relationship. The goal of the study is toreach an agreement on the doctors’ professional appearance that will meet patients’satisfaction and improve the doctor-patient relationship.Methods: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional survey. The study population isoutpatient clinics-except pediatrics clinics- in Tawam and Al Ain Hospitals in the city ofAl Ain in December 2007, using a self-administered questionnaire. Data were enteredusing Microsoft Access and analyzed using chi-square, ANOVA, and logistic regressionin SPSS.Results: Response rate was almost 100%. The sample includes (389) subjects from AlAin and Tawam Hospitals. 38% (71) of male patients prefer to be treated by maledoctors and 37% (69) of female patients prefer female doctors. Both male 79% andfemale 77% subjects prefer the male doctors to dress professionally. For femaledoctors male subjects 51% prefer the professional style while female subjects preferthe traditional style 50%. Wearing the white coat and the name tag was also preferredby the majority of subjects. 57% (221) of subjects believe that doctor's appearanceaffects their attitude towards the doctor. 67% (259) of subjects believe thatundesirable doctor’s appearance affect their trust.Conclusion: Doctors should be encouraged to dress professionally with white coat anda name tag. Wearing fashionable items is not preferred while providing care forpatients.

Project No. 243 (2007)Traditional Views on Causality and Treatment of Diseases and Injuries in AlAin, United Arab EmiratesStudent Authors: Fatima Saeed Al-Halhali, Khadija Ebrahim Al-Tenaiji, Thanaya AliAl-MullaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: The overall aim of this study was to improve the health care system and tohelp improve the knowledge of the UAE population about causality and treatment ofdifferent diseases. This study was designed to assess the beliefs about the causalityand treatment of common diseases and injuries and see the differences in the beliefsbetween different age groups, nationalities, income and level of education.Methods: The study was conducted in Al-Ain city, United Arab Emirates between 18November and 13 December 2007. The study group was women who are 14 years oldand above in Al Ain city, including all nationalities attending the women associationand religious centers (where people go to learn Quraan, Hadith and attend differentlectures). The sample size was 242 participants.Results: The study showed that there is strong belief that traditional causality like(destiny, evil eye, jin and sorcery) may cause some of the diseases and injuries.Injuries such as drowning, child injuries, falls and car crash can be due to destiny as acause (88%, 81%, 81% and 80% respectively). There is a belief that evil eye cancause seizure (28%) and mental illness (22%). In addition, older people in contrast toyounger people believe in traditional causality. They believe in evil eye more with pvalue of (0.001, 0.008, 0.015, and 0.032) for diabetes, cancer, hypertension and childinjures respectively. Non educated people believe in evil eye more that educatedpeople as a cause of different diseases. 61 % of old people believe that diet play a rolein different disease (like heart diseases) while it is 18% for younger people (p=0.000).The results showed that there is a strong belief that diseases like diabetes,hypertension and cancer can be treated by herbs (53%, 31% and 26 respectively).They can also be treated by cupping (14%, 20%, and 6% respectively). With old agethere is more belief in cupping as a treatment for cancer and diabetes among UAEnationals. (p= 0.049 for cancer and p=0.003 for diabetes).Conclusion: Older people are more inclined to believe that evil eye can cause chronicillness; that diet, lack of exercise and smoking play a role in the individual health; andthat the doctor is a good source of treatment. With increasing the income: thetendency is more to go the doctor than traditional healers.Recommendation: Educational programs to increase the awareness about the causalityof some diseases especially for the diseases that are not well understood by thepeople like seizure and HIV are highly recommended. In addition, physicians couldbenefit from educational programs that will give them an idea about what theirpatients believe in as the causes of some diseases.while providing care for patients.

Project No. 244 (2008)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Traffic Police Towards Car Restraints inAl AinStudent Authors: Hamad Saeed Al-Shamsi, Mohd Hasan Al-Ali, Abdulla Hussain Al-Hammadi, Ali Sultan Al-Senani, Murad Manea Al-ObthaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. El-Sadig,Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: The rate of motor vehicle crashes (MVC) Injuries and deaths in the UAEare among the highest worldwide. The lack of safety belt (SB) and child restraints useare commonly cited as the major risk factors and it is a major problem in the UAE. In2005, a study indicated that MVC injuries were among the top two causes of death inthe UAE. The reasons commonly cited for these increasing trends is the failure toenforce the SB law, the lack of knowledge about its importance and the negativeperceptions about SB by the general population and police. Traffic police take the frontresponsibility in enforcing traffic regulations and insuring the safety of MV occupants.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was completed from January toFebruary 2008 at police stations in Al Ain city, UAE. The target was all trafficpolicemen in Al-Ain. Each station was visited by 2 investigators at a time during shiftchanging. A total number of 260 policemen participated in the survey. Selfadministeredquestionnaire was distributed to the policemen. The questions includedsociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, perceptions and attitudes; about the useof SB and questions about the use of child restraints and safety measures in their cars.Results: Surveyed sample included 260 traffic policemen, 56% (n= 145) were UAEcitizens, and 62% (n= 151) were aged (25-34 years). The analysis of policemenknowledge showed that 1% or less (n=1) scored Excellent, while 40% (n=103) scoredPoor. Moreover, 3 % (n=3) thought that driver’s lap is safest place in cars for childrenless than 12 years. 98% (n=255) of surveyed population believed that SB is necessaryfor drivers and front seat passengers. 65% (n=165) of policemen will stop andverbally warn unrestrained drivers. The analysis of policemen practice off-duty showedthat, 60% (n=150) of policemen always use the SB on highways, 51% (n=127)always use it on main roads, 37% (n=92) always use it on residential roads. On theother hand, during on-duty policemen practice was, 87.4% (n=209) always use the SBon highways, 85.3% (n=203) on main roads, 80.4% (n=193) on residential roads.Conclusion: We conclude that the knowledge of policemen could be improved whichwill facilitate applying the law against unrestraint drivers. More important,enforcement of the SB law will be the definitive solution to increase the compliance ofUAE population.

Project No. 245 (2008)Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Prevention of Injury from Falls seen atHospital Emergency Department of Al Ain, United Arab EmiratesStudent Authors: Omar Mohammed Shemaili, Abdulla Mohd Al-Rahoomi, MohdHamad Al-Kuwaiti, Abdulla Hama Al-KuwaitiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. P. Barss, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Falls are the second or third leading cause of unintentional injury deaths inthe world in 2002. They are the first cause of hospitalization in most countries and aleading cause for home injuries. A preliminary review of emergency data showed fallsto be by far the most common cause of emergency visits for injury. To our bestknowledge no epidemiological study had been done in Al Ain city or United ArabEmirates (UAE) about fall injuries for all age groups that also studied causes, riskfactors, and the nature of injuries sustained after a fall.Methods: Case series survey of fall injuries presented to emergency departments inthe two main government hospitals in Al Ain city Tawam and Al Ain hospitals. Datawere collected by review of emergency records and structured phone interviews withthe victim or the caregiver. Data were analyzed using SPSS.Results: The study included 1 month of data from Tawam hospital and 10 days fromAl-Ain hospital for December 2007. 402 emergency department records werereviewed, 139 from Tawam hospital and 263 from Al-Ain Hospital. Of these 402patients 90 were phone interviewed, 50 from Tawam hospital and 40 from Al-Ainhospital. There were 68 falls out of 281 in males in the age group 5-14 years. 64%(n=402) of fall injuries were UAE citizen. 70% (n=283) falls occurred in males. In UAEnationals 62 of falls out of 256 occurred in the age group 1-4 years. In non-UAEnationals 40 falls out of 144 occurred at age group 25-34 years. The most commonfall location are the buildings 63% (n=71), of these 94% occurred in homes. Insidethe buildings, the stairs 31% (n=33) and bathrooms 21% (n=22) were thecommonest areas for falls. Playing 39% (n=32) and walking 23% (n=19) were thetwo most common activities of falls. 50% (n=34) of falls occurred on marble orceramic surfaces followed by concrete, brick, or asphalt 19% (n=13).Conclusion: Most falls occurred in or around homes on hard surface, many of whichwere wet and or slippery and on stairs. The municipality and country should insurethat home building codes for stair and floor safety are up to date and that well trainedsafety inspectors review all plans in homes and work sites, to insure that codes arerespected. Home owners should also be advised to obtain safety information whenplanning to build a home.

Project No. 246 (2008)Women's Awareness, Attitude and Practice Regarding the Risk of BabyWalkers: and Interventional StudyStudent Authors: Mohamed Muath Mohamed Faisal Adi, Jaber Rashed Mubarak AlKhaili, Khaled Ahmed Al-ShriefFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. M El-Sadig, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: The use of baby walker (BW) dates back to at least mid-1600s. It isconsidered as most frequent consumer product associated with injuries with infants.Although it's banned in Canada, it's still very highly used in United Arab Emirates(UAE). There is currently no evidence in UAE regarding the effectiveness ofinterventions to reduce BW use.Methods: The study was carried out in Family development foundation in Al Ain, one offour main cities of the UAE with population of 460,000. All women in the grade 5 to 12who agreed to participate in the study were included and all students interviewed byself-administered questionnaire.Results: Response was 100%, 339 females, 94% (n=317) students, 79% (n=263)Emirate citizens and 50% (n=166) single. 83% (n=289) of families used or had usedBW. 65% stop using BW because their children grown up while 24% stop using itbecause a child was injured. 89% (n=281) use BW because they think it helps thebaby walk earlier, 69% (n=207) uses BW because they believe it is safe. 259 childrenwere injured by BW, 57 treated in the ER, 13 admitted to hospital. Less than 20%were believed that BW is dangerous equipment, after intervention the numberincreased up to 50%. Yet only 21% strongly agreed that BW should be banned in UAE,after intervention 38% agreed. After intervention majority (89%) state that they willstop using baby walkers, 70% of them will get rid of them.Conclusion: Although BW caused many injuries they were perceived safe and used bymajority of families. After intervention there was great improvement in awarenesstoward risks of BW use. There was significant difference in knowledge before and afterintervention (P

Project No. 247 (2008)Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression and Suicidal Behaviour Among Residents ofLabour Camps in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Khalifa Mohammed Saif Al Kaabi, Essa Abdulla Ibrahim Hassan AlHaj, Dhafer Mohammed Amin Khonji, Rashid Yousif Rashid Al SharhanFaculty Supervisors: Dr. F. Maskari, Dr. S. Shah, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Depression, anxiety and suicide significantly influence the human who iscontinuously exposed to stress. One of the society groups who is under considerableamount of stress are the workers. The objective of this study was to determine theprevalence of anxiety, depression and suicidality among workers in labour camps in AlAin, UAE.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. We selected a random sample (n=318)from a sampling frame of laborer camps of various sizes located in Ali Ain. We usedDASS-42 to assess depression and sucidality among the study participants. Thecollected data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression alalysisusing the SPSS program.Results: Out of 318 study participants, 239 completed and returned the survey. Theprevalence of depression was 25.1% (60/239). The highest prevalence of depressionwas noted among laborers from Bangladesh (40%), followed by non-national Arabs(37.5%) and Pakistani (30%), and Indians (13.8%). Prevalence of depression variedby monthly earning i.e. 53.8% among those earning less than 500 DHS, 26.8% inincome category of 500-999 DHS, and 20% in income category of >=1000 DHS. 7%of the participants thought about killing themselves. 3% of the same group really triedto do so. The most common method to commit suicide was hanging. Those who sufferfrom depression have attributed their symptoms to having no regular annual vacation.Conclusion: Laborers are having substantial burden of Depression and thoughts ofself-harm. There are many similarities between the obtained results from this studyand other conducted studies. For example in one research suicidal thoughts andbehavior which is the extreme outcome of depression was commonly found amongyounger age group compared to the older. This is very similar to the results of thisstudy. Also, the most common method for committing suicide was hanging in thisstudy and others. Paying attention to high risk groups has to be properly establishedin order to minimize life threatening outcomes. The high risk groups are Pakistanees,those who has no regular annual vacation, the young, those with chronic diseases andworkers on medications. Researchers recommend to provide workers with regularannual vacation and good health care in order to minimize the rate of depression andsuicide. Anxiety rates can be reduced by getting middle aged population who can dealwith the different stressful life events.

Project No. 248 (2008)Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Poultry Farm Workers Towards AvianInfluenza in Al-Ain District in the UAEStudent Authors: Abdulla Mohammed Saleh Bedah Al Awadhi, Khaled AbdullaAhmed Al Bahri Al Neaimi, Ahmed Abdul Kareem Othman Al Hammadi, BaderMahmood Mohd Saleh KazimFaculty Supervisors: Dr. I. Blair, Dr. A. WheatleyAbstract:Objectives: Avian Influenza (AI) is an infection caused by avian influenza viruses. AI isvery contagious among birds and it may affect humans. Since 2003 H5N1 avianinfluenza virus has become a global problem for poultry with several outbreaks inmany countries. Experts are concerned that H5N1 may signal the start of humaninfluenza pandemic if the virus undergoes mutation. Although cases of H5N1 in poultryhave been reported in nearby countries, no cases have been reported in the UAE.However, there is always a potential risk for H5N1 outbreaks in UAE because it is onthe migratory routes of many species of wild birds.. If outbreaks of H5N1 were tooccur in UAE poultry farm workers will be in the front line and, therefore, they need tobe aware of how to recognize it and respond to it. Knowledge, attitude and practices ofpoultry farm workers have been surveyed in Italy and Nigeria but not in Middle Eastcountries. Research done in UAE and Saudi Arabia in the past has involved healthcare workers and high school students but not poultry farm workers. To assess theknowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of poultry farm workers towards AI anddetermine the association between KAP and level of seniority within the farmworkplace.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out. A sampling frame for poultry farmswas produced and eight farms were selected. The farms were visited and supervisorsand workers were sampled. Staff were interviewed using a standard questionnaire.Composite scores were calculated from the responses covering overall knowledge,local knowledge, and attitude to AI.Results: Seventy two subjects were interviewed from five of the eight farms..Supervisors had significantly better overall knowledge score (p

Project No. 249 (2009)Prevalence of back pain and other musculoskeletal problems among FMHSmedical students in UAE University, Al AinStudent Authors: Fatima Mahmood Al Hammadi, Khawla Rashed Abdulla Al Neaimi,Huda Sulaiman Mohamed DhanhaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. S. Shah, Dr. J. SchneiderAbstract:Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) and other musculoskeletal disorders (MSD)represent one of the common occupational problems in the developed countries. Manyresearches showed that health care workers including the medical students are aregularly affected occupational group. Since little was known about these problemsamong Emirati medical students, this study was planned to assess this issue.Methods: All students who were enrolled in the MBS program at the Faculty ofMedicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) of UAE University were eligible to participate.The over all study design was a cross-sectional analytic survey and the data wascollected by an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Then the data was analyzedby Stata statistical software.Results: Response rate was 68% (181/267) of which 68% reported LBP. There was astrong correlation between LBP and the academic year in which LBP prevalenceincreased as the students progressed in the academic program with P value byheterogeneity was < 0.01. The second most common MSD was neck pain as reportedby 62% of the participants. There were significant association between neck pain andsome of the possible risk factors like female gender, studying postures (lying on thefront) and pre-existing LBP.Conclusion: LBP and other MSD are relatively common among UAE university medicalstudents thus students must be taught about the healthy studying habits on a regularbasis. They need to be more aware about the effect of different studying postures andmaterials. Also study requirements should be equally balanced during the wholestudying period.

Project No. 250 (2009)Knowledge, attitude and practice of car seat use among pregnant women inAl Ain city: a cross-sectional studyStudent Authors: Nuha Nasir Mohamed Al Zaabi, Shamsa Mohammad Abdulla AlSuwaidi, Iman Rashed Humaid Al ShamsiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. I Blair, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Introduction: The leading cause of death for children younger than 14 years of age isvehicular injury world wide. 460 children up to 14 years of age were killed in car crashinjuries in the UAE in the last 6 years. A study done in USA found that child restraintreduces the death rates in car crashes by 71% among infants and 54% among youngchildren. The prevalence of child car restraints in Al Ain city in 2004 was only 7%according to a study done by medical students. There is no law in the UAE regardingthe use of child car seats, however, seating children under the age of ten in the frontseat of the car leads to a fine of Dhs 400 and four traffic points.Methods: The study was carried out in Tawam, Al Ain and Oasis Hospitals of Al AinCity, one of the main cities of the UAE with a population of 460,000.A sample of 223pregnant women visiting the obstetric outpatient clinics were included. A consentform and information sheets were provided before subjects completed a selfadministeredquestionnaire.Results: The mean age of the participants was 28.9. forty three percent (96) wereEmarati nationals. 65% of the participants have children of which 71% answered thattheir children travel in their husband's cars. Seventy three percent of women whohave children do not own a car seat. 78% of the participants had poor knowledge ofcar seats’ use, 20% had good knowledge, while only 2% had excellent knowledge.99% of the participants either agreed or strongly agreed that car seats use isimportant. 76% of the participants thought that the best policy to change the presentattitude towards the use of car seats is to educate the public regarding car seats useand 27% thought that the best policy is to enforce car seat use by law.Statistically significant associations were found between owning a car seat and themonthly income (p value0.04), achieving a high knowledge score (p value 0.001),travelling in the mother’s car (p value 0.001), and believing that car seat use isimportant (p value 0.006). We have also found a statistically significant associationbetween a high knowledge score and believing that car seat use is important (p value0.05).Conclusion: Our study highlighted the importance of establishing educationalcampaigns to raise awareness and increase the practice of car seat use. Although theresults showed poor practice among the pregnant women which can be attributed totheir poor knowledge, still they demonstrated excellent attitude. One of the majorcontributing factors of not having car seats was related to the family income, so werecommend providing good quality car seats in affordable prices.

Project No. 251 (2009)Knowledge, attitude and practice of unpasteurized milk consumption amongstwomen in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Shaikha Sulaiman Ahmed Al Houqani, Salwa Saeed Mohammed AlKaabi, Ahlam Abdulghafoor Mohamed Al Awadi,Maryam Ali Bati Al Qaydi, Fatima YousifMohamed Ismail, Zainab Ahmed Husain BaqerFaculty Supervisors: Dr. I. Blair, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Introduction: Unpasteurized milk consumption has become a “trendy” notion amongnatural food proponents. Interestingly enough, this budding notion of promoting it inwestern countries has always been a traditional practice in the Arab states andsouthern Asian societies. In the United Arab Emirates, for example, unpasteurized milkconsumption is embraced as an integral part of the local food habits. The currentstudy aims to assess and subsequently minimize unpasteurized milk consumption as ahigh risk behavior among citizens of Al Ain District.Methods: The study was carried out amongst female attendees of the Al Markhaniaand Al Hayer Family Development Foundation (FDF) branches in Al Ain District. A totalof 246 participants were included. Self-administered questionnaires of 34 items wereused and results were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. For the backgroundinformation gathering, the investigators addressed the following governmentalagencies: Al Ain Municipality, Al Ain Veterinary Services (AVS), Abu Dhabi FoodControl Authority (FCA), Al Ain Preventive Medicine Department (PMD), and TawamHospital Microbiology Laboratory.Results: Two hundred and forty six responses were included in the analysis. Twentypercent of the sampled population was drinking unpasteurized milk. Of the nonconsumers,86% knew someone else who practices unpasteurized milk consumptionlike parents, grandparents and siblings. Sixty three percent of the consumers hadtheir own farms as a source of unpasteurized milk. Unfortunately, of those only 56%reported annual screening of their animals for infections. Camel raw milk wasconsumed by 67.5% of the consumers. The epidemiological factor that was associatedwith raw milk consumption was being UAE national. Knowledge score was significantlydifferent between consumers and non-consumers. Variables that influenced theknowledge score were: age, area of residency (urban versus rural) and educationallevel.Conclusion: We can conclude from this study that unpasteurized milk consumption is acommon practice among the locals in our representative sample. The demographicprofile of this practice is crossing all age groups, educational levels, areas of residencyand financial income. Factors contributing to consumption were inherited distortedknowledge and attitude towards the risks and benefits of unpasteurized milkconsumption.

Project No. 252 (2009)Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding postnatal mental health disordersamong pregnant women in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Asmaa Ahmed Mohamed Khezaimy, Fatima Yousif Rashed AlSharhan, Aisha Mohamed Hasan Al Dhufair, Thana Saif Naser HarharaFaculty Supervisors: Dr. S. Shah, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. S. ShabanAbstract:Introduction: Postpartum mental health disorders encompass postpartum blues,depression (PPD) and psychosis. Despite the high prevalence of PPD (22%) amongwomen in the UAE as noted previously, there is no local study on the knowledge andawareness of postpartum mental health problems. In view of the benefits ofidentification and intervention during pregnancy, this study aims at raising awarenessabout these disorders and measuring the prevalence of PPD among pregnant womenin the UAE.Methods: A total of 251 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at two majorhospitals and four primary health care clinics in AlAin were recruited to complete aquestionnaire and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for this crosssectionalstudy.Results: 70.4% heard about postpartum mental health disorders, out of which only3% had excellent knowledge, 34% and 36% had poor and good knowledgerespectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the level of knowledgeacross different socio-demographic factors. Women who were better knowledgeablehad a positive attitude towards these illnesses (p value < 0.000). 59.1% were neverscreened for postpartum mental illnesses during postnatal follow-up. Using the EPDS,32.9% had depression. No risk factors were significantly correlated with the high EPDSscores.Conclusion: Taking into consideration the poor knowledge about postpartum mentalhealth disorders, and the large percentage of women suffering from depressivefeatures, we suggest the need to raise awareness about these disorders througheducational campaigns. Physicians should screen pregnant women for depressivefeatures, and encourage them to attend postpartum follow-up.

Project No. 253 (2009)Knowledge, attitude and practice toward HPV infection, immunization andcervical cancer among high school female students in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Noura Saif Rashed Al Nuaimi, Yusra Salem Ahmed Al-Ghas, AsmaHadef Rashid Al OwaisFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. J. Schneider, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Introduction: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in the UAE; thehealth authority is trying to reduce its incidence by implementing the cervical cancervaccine program, which is targeting 17 year old girls. Almost 6,000 girls wereinoculated in 2008, and a further 4,000 have received the first dose of the vaccine thisyear (1). It is important to educate the general population about Human PapillomaVirus (HPV) and its vaccine so that they can decide about receiving the vaccine.Participants from girls’ high schools from Al Ain were surveyed to determine theirknowledge about HPV and the HPV vaccine, and to evaluate their attitude and practiceregarding the vaccine.Methods: A cross sectional study involved 5 schools selected randomly from Al Aincity. The study population consisted of female students in grades 11 and 12 who wereoffered the HPV vaccine in both public and private schools. The study was conductedfrom 12th April to 7th May of 2009. Data was collected through self administeredquestionnaires, and was analyzed by SPSS.Results: We are reporting data of 334 students regarding knowledge, attitude andpractice. Knowledge: 58% of the students have heard of HPV, 16% heard of genitalwarts, 59% heard of HPV vaccine, 94% heard of cervical cancer, 22% knew that HPVis transmitted through sexual contact, 22% knew that cervical cancer is caused by aviral infection, and 37% knew that HPV vaccine reduces the risk of cervical cancer.Attitude: 70% were worried about having genital warts in the future, 76% wereworried about having cervical cancer in the future. Practice: 53.3% (178) received thevaccine, 46.7% (156) did not receive the vaccine.Conclusion: The data show that the target population of the vaccine in the UAE haspoor knowledge about HPV, cervical cancer, and the efficacy of the vaccine. This haslead to the poor uptake of the vaccine among high school girls.

Project No. 254 (2009)Impact of Pandemic H1N1 2009 Influenza on the behaviour of UAE parents ofprimary school children in Al Ain CityStudent Authors: Abdulla Mohd Abdulla Al Mahrami, Mohammed SulaimanMohammed Al Neyadi, Nafea Hussain mohamed Alyasi, Omar Ali Awn Al KathiriFaculty Supervisors: Dr. I. Blair, Dr. S. ShabanAbstract:Objectives: Due to the recent H1N1 pandemic, many parents’ behaviors have changedconsiderably on how to deal with the pandemic. Our objective is to assess theknowledge, attitudes and behavior s of the parents of primary school children in Al Aincity, United Arab EmiratesMethods: A cross sectional study was done through self administered questionnaires.The questionnaires were distributed among primary school parents to assess theirknowledge, attitude and behavior towards the H1N1 pandemic. Two thousandsquestionnaires were distributed and 667 questionnaires were received back with aresponse rate of 33%. For practical reason the result of analyzing 400 of thosequestionnaires are presented here.Results: Four hundred questionnaires were randomly selected and the results were asthe following: ninety two percent of the parents believe that H1N1 is an airbornetransmitted disease, 33% they think it transmitted by pork meat, 16% believe thatit is transmitted by sexual contact and 12% believe that it is transmitted by insectbite. Seventy six of the parents believe that the disease is fatal in certain conditions,21% believe that it is fatal in all condition while only 14% believe that it is not fatal atall. The parents’ behaviors changed in several aspects due to H1N1. Around 80% ofthe parents increased the amount of washing their hands, 60% kept away fromcrowded places and 45% reduced the amount of shopping. Around 39% of the parentsbelieve that the virus is genetically engineered by pharmaceutical companies. Theparents were asked if the government has managed swine flu well, 84% agree while16% disagree. Finally, 82% of the local parents are refusing to accept the H1N1vaccine compared to 43% of the non- local parents. (P

Project No. 255 (2009)Prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among elementaryschool children in Al AinStudent Authors: Omar Mohammad Ali Mirza Abdulrahman, Ahmed Salem Mesarri AlDhaheri, Hamad Mohammad Muftah Alkhateri, Ahmed Mohamed Haji Ali Al Marzouqi,NourEldin Mahmoud NourEldinFaculty Supervisors: Dr. S. Shah, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: United Arab Emirate has the 2nd highest prevalence of type 2 diabetes.Childhood obesity is a fast growing problem in United Arab Emirates. Few studieshave been conducted to understand gender- specific disparity in overweight andobesity among elementary school children. This study aims at determining theprevalence of obesity and overweight in elementary school children in Al Ain and itsassociation with some factors.Methods: A cross sectional analytic study was conducted in Al Ain city elementaryschools. One boys’ school and one girls’ school were chosen out of 41. We randomlyselected 1 boys' school out of the 20 and 1 girls' school out of the 21. Then werandomly selected one class from each grade. The average number of students perclass is 20. If a class contains less than 20 students we randomly select the remainingfrom another class of the same grade. We used data based on direct measurements ofheight and weight from 9 schools, randomly selected from all secondary schools in AlAin, the 3rd largest UAE city, Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as kg/m2and BMI>=85th and

Project No. 256 (2009)Prevalence and risk factors of bullying among school students in Grades 6 to9 in Al Ain City, UAEStudent Authors: Essa Mohd Ali Abdulla AlEassa, Abdulla Ali Falah Al Ahbabi, Ali SaifSenan Al Dhuhouri, Ali Ibrahim Ahmed ibrahim Al JesmiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. R. BernsenAbstract:Objectives: Bullying is a major global problem with a serious impact on the victim’sacademic and social life. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence andrisk factors for bullying in order to guide the development of appropriate preventiveand management programs.Methods: The method used in the study was a cross-sectional study (descriptive &analytic) carried out among Al Ain school students. Two data collection tools wereused: self administered questionnaire for the students and one-to-one interview ofdifferent sectors involved in management of Bullying.Results: Although it was not feasible to administer the questionnaire and collect thedata, interviews with education sectors showed lack of bullying definition andawareness. In addition, experts believe that bullying is a major problem existing in allUAE schools and at the moment there are no programs or plans regarding bullyingbehavior. Different education authorities show enthusiasm regarding a study directedtoward this problem and are willing to take actions in order to prevent bullying andsecure students’ wellbeing.Conclusion: There is a lack of studies regarding prevalence and consequences ofbullying. Education facilities agree that it's a major under-estimated problem affectingthe child well-being and school performance. A thorough study is needed to assessprevalence and risk factors for bullying in order to guide the development ofappropriate preventive and management programs.

Project No. 257 (2010)Knowledge, attitude and practice towards menopause and hormonereplacement therapy (HRT) among women in Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Noura Salem Mohammed Al Dhaher, Khawla Mohamed Hasan AlDhufairi, Fatma Rashid Mohd Ghufli, Hanan Ali Saleh RaeesiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. S. Shah, Dr. I. Blair, Dr. F. Al Maskari, Dr. S. ShabanAbstract:Objectives: Menopause is a significant life event for women carrying with it medical,psychosocial, and cultural significance. During menopause or menopausal transition,women experience psychological or physical symptoms with varying degrees ofseverity that may cause significant disturbance to their lives. This study wasconducted to determine knowledge, attitude and practice toward menopause and(HRT) among women in UAE.Methods: It was a clinic-based cross-sectional study, carried out among women of age40 and above. Study subjects were recruited from four Primary Health Care centers inAl Ain city (Khabisi, Masoudi, Al Jahili, Naema clinics). We used pilot-testedinterviewer-administered questionnaires, in both Arabic and English version, with 33items including socio-demographic variables, and questions related to knowledge,attitude and practices regarding menopause and HRT. Data were analyzed using MSWindows Excel and SPSS statistical software.Results: Out of 177 study subjected selected, 150 (85%) completed the survey.Seventy six percent of participants were menopausal. The mean age at menopause ofthe menopausal was 49 years. A substantial number of women had poor knowledgeabout menopause (67%) and HRT (73%). Sixty percent of women had positiveattitudes towards menopause, which were reflected on their practice. Fifty threepercent of women had symptoms; however, 35% of them did not use anything torelieve their symptoms. Knowledge about menopause varied significantly (P < 0.05)by level of education and nationality. We found a significant association betweenreported symptoms and attitude towards menopause and HRT (P = 0.04 and P =0.031).Conclusion: There is poor knowledge about menopause and HRT among women in ourstudy. This poverty of knowledge is mainly due to lack or low level of education.Generally, there is a positive attitude towards menopause, which reflected on women’spractice towards it. There is a pressing need for wide educational campaigns aboutmenopause and risk and benefits of HRT for the population.

Project No. 258 (2010)Women's Awareness, Attitude and Practice Regarding the Risk of BabyWalkers in Al Ain: a post-interventional StudyStudent Authors: Tasnim Omar Abdalla Abdelrahman, Amnah Ali Hassan Esaadi,Kawthar Mohamed Ibrahim Al Marzouqi, Abeer Sultan Abdulla Al NaqbiFaculty Supervisors: Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. A. Wheatley, Prof. N. NagelkerkeAbstract:Objectives: Although BW caused many injuries they were perceived as safe and usedby a majority of families. An immediate interventional study done last year in UAEshowed a great improvement in awareness toward risks of BW use. However given thedifficulty in educating the whole population, concerned authorities might considerfollowing Canada in banning importation, sales and advertising of BW.Methods: The study was carried out at the Family Development Foundation in Al Ain.It includes women who participated last year in the interventional study (339). Womenwere interviewed by telephone.Results: Response rate was 33%, 110 females, 76% Emirate citizens and 58%married. 83% (n=289) of families used or had used BW. The number of children whoused the BW before intervention was 452; only 90 children continued using it after theintervention. Eighty three percent of the participants stopped using the BW, and fromthose, only 16% did so because they were influenced by the educational lecture givenlast year. Eighty two percent of the participants thought that BW is dangerous beforethe intervention and this dropped to 36% after the intervention. Seventy three percentthought that activity play station is the best alternative to BW. Sixty percent preferredbanning of the BW before intervention, this percentage increased to 67% after theintervention.Conclusion: Education to change people’s practice is hugely onerous as evidenced bythe only 16% of the participants who stopped using the BW after intervention becauseof the educational lecture. Therefore, enforcing a ban on the advertisement, sale andimportation of baby walkers is the last remaining approach to protect infants from thisdangerous product.

Project No. 259 (2010)The burden of rota virus related diarrhea among children between 0-4 yearsin Al Ain, UAEStudent Authors: Muna Rashed Salem Al Zaabi, Ameera Abdul Nasser Al Naqeeb,Amal Shames Mohamed Zahmi, Shaikha Abdulla Rashed Al Mazrooei, Fatema EbrahimAli Al Hammadi, Salama Mohamed Ali Al Housani, Khadija Yousif Mohamed AlMarashda, Arwa Saeed Salem Al SenaniFaculty Supervisors: Dr. I. Blair, Dr. M. Grivna, Dr. S. ShabanAbstract:Objectives: Rotavirus is the leading cause of gastroenteritis (GE) in young childrenrequiring emergency department and clinic visits and hospital admissions. It is one ofthe most common causes for morbidity and mortality worldwide. General guidelinesfor appropriate standardised child care are needed. Unfortunately, in spite of the widespread of the disease, many mothers lack the information about the propermanagement and precautions against the illness. In this descriptive cross-sectionalstudy, we are evaluating the burden of the illness from three different dimentions;based on hospital records, doctors views and parents knowledge and experience. Weare assessing the prevalence of rotavirus gastroenteritis in children less than 4 yearsin Al Ain city, the knowledge, attitude and practice of doctors in the management ofchildhood diarrhea and determining the knowledge of parents on precautions andmeasures necessary for prevention of diarrheal illness.Methods: This study was conducted in two major hospitals in Al Ain city (Tawam andAl-Ain hospitals). All children less than 4 years of age, all pediatrics doctors, and allmothers attending both hospitals were included. We randomly extracted 72 out of1,551 patients diagnosed with gastroenteritis (ICD9 code) from medical recordsdataset for 2009 in Tawam Hospital; a self-completed survey was filled. We distributed50 questionnaires on doctors of both hospitals, and 31 questionnaires were completedand returned (Al Ain 13, Tawam 18). Interviewer-filled questionnaires were also filledfor randomly-selected 192 mothers attending pediatrics clinics, wards, and emergencydepartments with children with various illnesses.Results: From medical Records, 67%) were rotavirus positive, and 33% were rotavirusnegative. Seventy seven percent of patients were between 0-11 months. Seventy fivepercent were admitted for 1-3 days; as 31% had mild dehydration, and 22% hadmoderate dehydration. Moreover, 93% received IV fluid and mostly due to decreasedoral intake. As for doctors, 89% thought that rotavirus was the most common cause ofdiarrhea among children in Al Ain. There were variations in physicians practice inlaboratory orders for rotavirus related diarrhea, but most of them were requestingELISA. As for parents, analysis of the total knowledge score resulted in 50% ofmothers having poor knowledge. However, 68% of mothers had good practice.Conclusion: Gastroenteritis is an important cause of morbidity in children of Al-Aincity, and a higher percentage is due to rotavirus. Unfortunately, doctors qualitativestudy confirmed the presence of high numbers of rota-positve gastroenteritis casesand many of them supported the idea of introducing rota-vaccine. An advantage wasthat the majority of doctors were aware of guidelines in management of the illness.Finally, this study confirmed that high proportions of mothers had poor knowledgetowards management and precautions for diarrheal diseases.

Project No. 260 (2010)Sharp injuries among health care workers in Al Ain: a cross sectional studyStudent Authors: Noura Al Fadhel Muatasem Al Mazboul, Farah Mohamed Humaid AlAli, Noura Salem Mohamed Al Mansoori, Sara Khamis Mohamed Alsuwaidi, DhuhaAbdulaziz Abdulla Al Ameri, Hafsa Obaid Ahmed Al Tenaiji, Sakina Hendi Shaker AlBelooshi, Noor Majed Meadhad Al SariFaculty Supervisors: Dr. S. Shah, Dr. M. GrivnaAbstract:Objectives: Data is lacking among health care workers (HCWs) engaged in surgery.The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of sharps injuriesamong HCW in two main hospitals in Al Ain and risk factors associated with theseinjuries, as well as to identify the response of HCW towards these injuries.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in Tawam and Al Ain hospitals using aself-administered questionnaire CHWs working in the Emergency, Intensive care unit,General Surgery, Orthopedics and Obstetrics and gynecology departments. Data wasanalyzed using SPSS version 17.Results: 550 doctors and nurses were approached, 306 responded with a responserate of 55.6%. The prevalence of sharp injuries among HCW in Al Ain was 12%. 16(7%) out of 219 nurses and 19 (23%) out of 82 doctors had sharps injuries. Doctorswere more likely to have had sharp injury (OR: 3.82, 95% CI 1.86-0.88). The highestrate (27%) among HCWs in orthopedics 27%. There was significant correlationbetween those who worked ≥ 12 hours per shift (p