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Background : Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone mass and increased fracture risk, presents a significant public health challenge. Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans offer a reliable means of assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and detecting osteoporosis. The aim of this study is to assess awareness, attitude, and practice of women in the Jazan region toward DEXA scan. Methods : Data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 29.0. The total knowledge scores of participants were calculated to assess potential associations with sociodemographic data. A p -value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results : Among 400 women, 230 (57.5%) had low knowledge scores primarily due to poor knowledge of the DEXA scan procedure. Merely 39 women had undergone a DEXA scan mainly due to medical prescription ( n = 22, 56.4%). Total knowledge scores were significantly higher among women with high monthly incomes ( p = 0.019) and those working in medical-related jobs ( p = 0.017). Conclusions : This study underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve awareness of DEXA scans among women in Jazan City. Additionally, the findings suggest that socioeconomic factors may influence awareness levels, emphasizing the importance of tailored educational strategies to reach diverse demographics.

Introduction Skin photoaging is caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight, particularly ultraviolet rays (UV). High cumulative levels of UV radiation may cause burning, photoallergic or phototoxic reactions, pigmentary changes, photoaging, and even immunosuppression and skin cancers. Therefore, this study aims to assess knowledge, attitude, reception, and preventive practices towards skin photoaging among the Jazan general population in Saudi Arabia and its determinants. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population of Jazan, Saudi Arabia, who were aged 18 years and above and agreed to participate in the study. The calculated minimum sample size was 385. An online, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was distributed conveniently in Google Forms through social media platforms. It included four sections: The first section was about sociodemographic characteristics. The second section assessed the smoking, exercise, and healthy diet behavior of participants and the use of sunscreen. The third section assessed the knowledge regarding the photoaging process and its preventive measures utilization using three-point Likert scale questions. The fourth section assessed attitudes towards the photoaging process and its preventive measures through three-point Likert scales. Results The study included 452, of which 243 (53.76%) were aged 18-30 years, 258 (57.08%) were females, and 272 (60.18%) had white skin color. Approximately 417 (92.26%) were nonsmokers. Sixty-eight percent (372) spent 1-3 hours in the sun. Social media was the primary source of information on photoaging 81 (17.92%). Around 234 (51.77%) defined photoaging correctly. Regarding sunscreen usage, 58 (12.83%) always use sunscreen, and 177 (39.16%) never use it. However, 191 (42.26%) recognized the correct sunscreen application. Approximately 233 (51.5%) and 240 (53.1%) of respondents had fair knowledge and a positive attitude regarding photoaging and sunscreen use. Being female, pursuing university and postgraduate education, and taking information on photoaging from a physician were linked to a higher knowledge of photoaging (p<0.05). Participants who never use sunscreen had lower knowledge than those who always use it (p<0.001). None of the demographic factors was associated with the attitude towards sunscreen use (p>0.05). Conclusion There is a substantial gap in knowledge and preventive practices related to skin photoaging among the Jazan general population in Saudi Arabia. Gender, education level, and information sources influence knowledge levels. Targeted educational interventions are needed to enhance awareness and promote healthier practices, particularly sun exposure and photoaging prevention., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Assiri et al.)