Background: Proper nutrition for children is essential. School plays a major role in shaping their dietary behaviors and habits. This study aims to understand the factors affecting purchasing and nonpurchasing behaviors from elementary school canteens and to identify the types of snacks and drinks bought from school canteens across different public schools in Riyadh city. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in girls’ elementary public schools in Riyadh City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A total of 895 sixth-grade students participated. Questionnaires filled out either by the students or by their parents on their behalf. Results: The majority (76.5%) of students reported buying meals from the school canteen. Older students (10–12 years) were substantially more likely to buy snacks ( P = 0.046). Purchasing behavior was positively correlated with eating breakfast and carrying snacks from home ( P = 0.007). Peer pressure significantly influenced the choices of younger students ( P = 0.001). However, a higher proportion of older children ( n = 209, 39.73%) bought snacks because they were hungry. Environmental factors such as crowded canteens, high prices, and a lack of diversity affected how students felt about utilizing the canteen. Popcorn and chips were the most popular purchases; younger students bought more sweets and biscuits ( P = 0.013), whereas older students bought much more water ( P = 0.000). Conclusion: School canteens have a big impact on students’ nutrition, and their purchasing choices are influenced by hunger, age, and peer pressure. Environmental constraints must be addressed to give students healthier and more appealing options.
Background Pediatric Q fever endocarditis (PQFE) is a rare but serious infection caused by Coxiella burnetii. Diagnosis is often challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and the difficulty in culturing the bacteria. Objectives To describe epidemiological, clinical, and outcome data of PQFE in the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC). Methods It is a retrospective, descriptive study; data from patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia over the past 5 years were analyzed, supplemented by a review of all published PQFE cases in the GCC. Results Eighteen cases of chronic Q fever endocarditis in the GCC were identified. Three of these cases, comprising our series, occurred within the last 5 years, while the remaining fifteen were previously reported. The majority of cases originated in Saudi Arabia and were associated with a history of cardiac surgery for congenital heart malformations. Clinical presentation was typically atypical, characterized by fever, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly. Diagnosis in all cases relied on serology, with a mean diagnostic delay of 8.3 months. Despite most patients receiving appropriate treatment with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine, five required cardiac surgery, two experienced relapses, and one patient died. Conclusion PQFE is a rare disease with a significant diagnostic delay. Increased awareness among physicians, particularly pediatricians and cardiologists, is crucial for timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Background Antimicrobial medication errors (AMEs) pose critical threats to patient safety and fuel the global rise of antimicrobial resistance. This study retrospectively examines AMEs between 2022 and 2024 at a tertiary care hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, along with its affiliated community health centers. Objectives The study aimed to identify prescribing vulnerabilities, assess severity outcomes, and propose targeted interventions to enhance safety and stewardship practices. Methods This retrospective cohort study was employed to analyze AME, utilizing electronic health records, pharmacy databases, and institutional incident reporting systems reviewed by the Medication Safety Committee across the prescribing, transcribing, dispensing, and administration phases. Data were stratified by type, severity category, drug class, duration, location, and staff role with cross-validation through pharmacy audits. Results Prescribing errors consistently dominated across all 3 years, 71.4% (2022), 66.7% (2023), and 68.0% (2024), indicating entrenched clinical vulnerabilities. Dispensing errors steadily decreased over the study period, while supply and logistic errors spiked to 6.3% in 2023 before declining in 2024. Augmentin, cefazolin, azithromycin, amoxicillin, meropenem, and vancomycin were the most error-prone agents. Near-miss incidents (Category B) comprised the majority of reports, and hazardous conditions (Category A) rose notably in 2024. Multidisciplinary error reporting showed pharmacists and physicians as primary identifiers. The heatmap highlights declining errors in inpatient units, rising risks in community centers. Conclusion The analysis highlights persistent prescribing risks and emerging operational challenges in a tertiary care hospital’s antimicrobial management. Targeted education, enhanced digital systems, and site-specific interventions are essential for mitigating errors and aligning with global stewardship frameworks.
Background Deliberate self-harm (DSH) involves non-suicidal acts of intentional self-injury used to cope with emotional distress. It is a pathological behavior, recognized as a strong predictor of suicide. Adolescents, undergoing intense developmental changes, are particularly susceptible. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened mental health issues, potentially increasing DSH rates in adolescents. Objectives This study investigates DSH prevalence before and after the pandemic, its risk factors, and implications for public health. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Lifestyle-Coping-Questionnaire administered in a Level II hospital’s Pediatrics outpatient clinic. The sample included 319 adolescents (12–18 years, M = 14.85) from 2019 (n = 159) to 2023 (n = 160). Statistical analysis involved logistic regression for univariable and adjusted multivariable analyses. Results DSH prevalence was 29.8% (n=95), with an 8.0% post-pandemic increase (P = 0.121). The most frequently used method was cuts (72.6%), predominantly on the upper limbs (84.1%). Among adolescents with DSH, 34.7% sought help, mainly from siblings/friends (72.7%). Additionally, 42.1% expressed a desire to die, and 15.8% mentioned seeking attention. In multivariable logistic regression, significant risk factors included health problems, lack of physical exercise, former smoking, conflicts with a partner, history of attempted suicide/DSH in family/friends, and online search for self-harm methods. Exposure to negative life events correlated significantly with DSH, including difficulty making friends, bullying, parental conflicts, violence, concerns about sexual orientation, and non-consensual sexual relationships. Drug consumption, alcohol intake ≥2 times/month, and a low World Health Organization’s well-being index were also significant for DSH. Conclusion DSH is a significant public health concern that is highly prevalent, causes substantial impairment, and is not readily apparent in most cases. This study highlights key risk factors for the early detection and prevention of DSH.
Background Antimicrobial stewardship plays a crucial role in optimizing antibiotic use to improve patient outcomes and combat resistance. One key strategy is narrowing the spectrum of empirical antibiotics once culture and sensitivity results are available. This targeted approach reduces unnecessary exposure to broad-spectrum agents, preserving their effectiveness. Timely de-escalation also minimizes adverse effects and helps maintain a balanced microbiome. This research study intends to understand antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in the Maternity and Children Hospital. It is of more than 6-year retrospective study (2018–2038), then the last 6 months of 2024 (as the 2024 first 6 months) data is not available. Objectives The aim of the study is to analyze trends in the common organism’s frequency and in antimicrobial susceptibility patterns within the Maternity and Children Hospital in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Methods The study will use a nonprobability sampling method and will focus on clinically available isolates employing antibiograms and confirmatory tests through the American Proficiency Institute and Phoenix100 automated system. The studies’ anticipated outcomes include insights into current susceptibility patterns, trends over the study period, and an assessment of implications for empirical antibiotic choices. Ethical considerations prioritized: data anonymity, nonmaleficence, and research integrity. This research will provide valuable contributions to addressing the common antimicrobial resistance challenges in maternal and pediatric healthcare, offering a foundation for evidence-based clinical decisions and global efforts against common antimicrobial resistance. Results This multiyear study provides a comprehensive overview of antimicrobial susceptibility patterns across key pathogens. ESBL-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella remained under 30%, supporting the use of third-generation cephalosporins in stable, localized infections, while carbapenems are preferred for serious or ESBL-related cases. AmpC producers like Citrobacter and Enterobacter require avoiding cephalosporins and piperacillin-tazobactam, favoring carbapenems and aminoglycosides. Acinetobacter showed unexpectedly high susceptibility, while Stenotrophomonas demonstrated resistance to ceftazidime, limiting its empirical use. Gram-positive organisms, including declining MRSA and stable MSSA, support tailored therapy, with vancomycin and linezolid reserved for invasive infections. Fungal pathogens retained broad antifungal susceptibility, affirming current therapeutic strategies. Conclusion This multiyear study emphasizes the importance of local antimicrobial susceptibility data in guiding empirical treatment and stewardship. Integrating stewardship principles and global guidelines helps optimize antibiotic use, reduce resistance, and prevent complications like C. difficile infection.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a pressing global health threat, and in Saudi Arabia, national surveillance trends continue to demonstrate rising resistance among key pathogens. In response, a national evidence-based guideline for hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) was developed to guide the implementation of systematic interventions that promote optimal antimicrobial use. The Saudi Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, in partnership with national and academic partners, led the adaptation of the 2018 Infectious Diseases Society of America/ Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America ASP clinical practice guideline (CPG) using the king saud university (KSU)-Modified-ADAPTE methodology. Twenty-seven clinical questions were prioritized to formulate 31 recommendations categorized across six sections: antibiotic utilization, optimization strategies, microbiology and laboratory diagnostics, special populations, outcome measures, and organizational support. It included CPG implementation tools (i.e., proposed ASP committee structure, key performance indicators, audit templates, integration guidance aligned with Saudi Ministry of Health and Public Health Authority frameworks, patient health educational material, and patient experience stories). This CPG was registered in the PREPARE registry and reported using the RIGHT-Ad@pt reporting checklist for adapted CPGs. It represents a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s coordinated AMR containment strategy, providing a standardized and scalable model for ASP deployment across hospital settings.
Background Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection produced by Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis in infants may produce serious sequelae, such as hyperleukocytosis, an extreme elevation in white blood cell number, for which elevated morbidity and mortality are reported. Pertussis toxin is thought to be primarily responsible for the pathophysiology of pertussis-related leukocytosis, but it is not well understood. Objective The aim of this study is to define the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, therapeutic options, and course of six children with confirmed or suspected pertussis, with a focus on correlation with leukemoid reactions and the investigation of exchange transfusion treatment. Methods We retrospectively reviewed six cases of infant pertussis infection confirmed by PCR with leukocytosis necessitating admission to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit between June 2024 and February 2025. Treatment included supportive therapy, hyperhydration, simple blood transfusion, and/or exchange transfusion. Results All six patients presented with varying levels of leukocytosis consistent with leukemoid reaction, with WBC counts ranging from 33.9 to 127 × 109/L. Progressive normalization of the WBC counts was seen with interventions such as blood transfusion, hyperhydration, and exchange transfusion. Five patients were discharged in a stable state without major complications, and despite intensive management, one preterm infant died. Conclusion Pertussis in early infancy, especially in preterm or poorly vaccinated neonates, can progress rapidly, frequently leading to severe leukocytosis and cardiopulmonary compromise. Leukemoid reaction can be a marker of disease severity and poor outcome. Prompt recognition of the disease, immediate respiratory support, and proper consideration for exchange transfusion are key to improving survival. The series highlights the urgent need for prevention of pertussis through maternal vaccination and vaccination of infants early in life.
Background Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by organ failure resulting from an abnormal immune response to an infection. Diagnostic biomarkers are crucial tools for determining the presence or absence of disease and for monitoring clinical conditions. C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin are two key biomarkers frequently utilized in clinical practice. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of inflammatory markers, specifically Spell out and CRP, in detecting sepsis among neonates and infants under 3 months of age. Methods A 5-year retrospective cohort study was conducted at King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All patients under the age of 3 months who were diagnosed with sepsis. Statistical analysis used is the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results A total of 264 patients were reviewed in this study. Among these, 115 patients were classified as septic based on abnormal results in urine culture, blood culture, or cerebrospinal fluid. Lethargy was observed in 31 (60.8%), poor feeding was noted in 43 (41.7%), and Irritability was reported in 16 (15.7%) of septic cases. PCT was abnormal in 59 (57.3%) septic patients, while CRP was abnormal in 25 (24.3%) septic patients. Regression analysis of the association between inflammatory markers and sepsis showed no statistically significant association between PCT and CRP with sepsis. Conclusion Despite the high prevalence of abnormal PCT levels among our pediatric patients, our analysis revealed no statistically significant association between PCT and CRP biomarkers and the development of sepsis. Further investigations are warranted to identify the most effective inflammatory marker for detecting neonatal sepsis both in our region and globally.
Background Pediatric urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a global public health concern, exacerbated by rising antibiotic resistance rates, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers. In Saudi Arabia, the epidemiology of pediatric UTIs varies regionally, necessitating localized studies to guide effective management strategies. Objectives This study aims to analyze the epidemiology and antibiotic resistance profiles of pediatric community-acquired UTIs in a tertiary care setting at King Saud Medical City (KSMC), Riyadh, to inform localized management strategies. Methods A retrospective study was conducted analyzing data from 803 pediatric patients (aged 1 month to 14 years) with initial UTIs at King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, between 2016 and 2018. Demographic data, urine culture results, and antibiotic resistance profiles were extracted from electronic medical records. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were used to assess associations and predictors of antibiotic resistance. Results Escherichia coli was identified as the most common uropathogen (40.5%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (21.5%) and Enterococcus species (12.7%). ESBL producers accounted for 24.61% of the isolates, significantly influencing the choice of empirical therapy. High antibiotic resistance rates were observed, particularly for ampicillin (43%), cotrimoxazole (26.8%), and cefazolin (CFZ; 50%). Notably, the prevalence of ESBL-producing uropathogens varied significantly by gender and pathogen type. Conclusion This study provides important insights into the epidemiology of pediatric community-acquired UTIs and antibiotic susceptibility in Saudi Arabia. Due to the high prevalence of ESBL-producing uropathogens, individualized management strategies for antibiotic use are essential. Local studies are crucial for informing empirical treatment and improving clinical outcomes in managing pediatric UTIs.
Background Syncope is a common symptom in pediatric clinics, with neurocardiogenic syncope being the most frequent etiology. The evaluation approach varies, as does the diagnostic yield. Objectives This study aims to evaluate the demographic and clinical characteristics of pediatric patients who present to specialty clinics with syncope. Methods This retrospective study analyzed the records of pediatric patients seen for syncope in the neurology and/or cardiology specialty clinics at Jordan University Hospital between 2021 and 2024. We examined demographic characteristics, presenting symptoms, investigations, and differential diagnoses. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Results A total of 147 patients were included, comprising 64 (44%) males. Age ranged from 4 to 18 years, with 92 (63%) patients aged 10–15 years. Neurocardiogenic syncope was the most common diagnosis (108 [73%] patients). Epilepsy was diagnosed in eight patients, and one patient had a cardiac etiology. Among those tested, iron deficiency anemia was identified in 18 (12%) patients, and 31 (21%) patients had vitamin D deficiency. Brain imaging and echocardiography had low diagnostic yield. Conclusion Our findings suggest a predominance of neurocardiogenic syncope, though some patients were diagnosed with serious conditions such as epilepsy and restrictive cardiomyopathy. This study underscores the need to streamline diagnostic protocols to minimize unnecessary tests while ensuring serious etiologies are not overlooked.
Background We evaluated the impact of the Transition Assessment Post Transfer (TAPT) program, a pediatric critical care outreach team (PCCOT) follow-up initiative, on morbidity and mortality outcomes for children who received a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) consult in the emergency department (ED) and were transferred to an inpatient ward. Objectives The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of the TAPT program on PICU admission rates. Secondary objectives included a description of patient characteristics, PICU length of stay, days on invasive and non-invasive ventilation, and mortality. Methods A retrospective analysis compared pre-TAPT (2014–2017) and post-TAPT (2017–2020) periods. Patients included were those requiring PICU admission within 24 hours of hospital admission from the ED. A subgroup analysis examined patients with a prior PICU consult in the ED. The intervention involved routine PCCOT follow-up for children after PICU consultation or PCCOT activation in the ED, introduced in July 2017. Results An interrupted time-series analysis of 3 years before and after TAPT implementation included 316 children (35% female; mean age 4.8 years) requiring unplanned PICU admission within 24 hours, with 22 (7.0%) having a prior PICU consult in the ED. There were no significant differences in early unplanned PICU transfers, morbidity indicators, or mortality. Conclusions There were no significant differences in PICU transfer rates between the pre- and post-TAPT periods. Further research is needed to improve risk identification for early deterioration and assess the broader impact of TAPT.
Background: Drug dosage errors are mistakes that occur during the prescribing, dispensing, or administering of medications, leading to patients receiving incorrect dosages. Objectives: The aim of the study was to apply health beliefs model (HBM)-based intervention in improving nurses’ beliefs toward drug dosage errors. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in pediatric wards of hospitals in Mosul from October 5, 2024, to May 1, 2025. The study involved 60 nurses, equally divided between the experimental and control groups. The HBM-based intervention focused on perceived susceptibility and severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, and cues to action related to medication dosage errors. The inquiry utilized the Social Science Statistical Package (SPSS) version 26 to analyze the data. The statistical methodologies employed for data analysis and outcome evaluation encompass. Results: The study results showed no significant differences in demographic variables, indicating a homogeneous sample. The training led to an increase in knowledge among nurses, with their mean score rising from 6.866 pre-study to 17.466 in post1 and 16.866 in post2, indicating an improvement from fair to good knowledge. Nurses’ beliefs also showed positive changes in almost all components of the HBM, except for perceived barriers. Conclusion: The study concluded that the HBM-based intervention was effective in enhancing nurses’ beliefs regarding medication dosage errors. The intervention significantly improved their understanding of perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy in relation to the medication safety.
Backgroud Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organ systems, with varying prevalence rates worldwide. Objectives To understand the clinical and laboratory profile of people with CF (pwCF) in Jordan. Methods This descriptive study of 50 pwCF undergoing treatment at the CF clinic at Prince Hamza Hospital in Amman, Jordan, from 2016 to 2024. Results The average age of diagnosis was 4.2 years. Consanguinity was noted in 88% of the patients. Respiratory complications like chronic cough (70%) and digital clubbing (72%) were common, along with gastrointestinal and endocrine problems. Pulmonary function tests indicated a mean forced expiratory volume (FEV1) of 70.6% of the predicted value. Genetic testing revealed that the most prevalent mutations were G85E (16%), F508del (12%), and CFTRdel19-21 (10%). Microbial analysis revealed Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the predominant pathogen in 50% of sputum cultures. Bronchiectasis was identified in 56% of pwCF. The study also assessed medical management and patient adherence, finding that 58.8% of the pwCF attended the clinic regularly. Compliance with chest physiotherapy was low (5.6%). Conclusion This study contributes valuable insights into the clinical profile of patients with CF in Jordan, highlighting the need for improved early diagnosis, consistent care, and better access to therapies. The findings underscore the challenges of managing CF in a low-resource setting.
Background Diabetes mellitus is a chronic illness that has commonly led to progressive and incapacitating deterioration of patients’ condition over the past 20 years. Objectives The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of the shot-blocker and vibration device on pain intensity and patient discomfort during subcutaneous insulin injections in hospitalized adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods The study was conducted at the Imam Al‑Hassan Al Mujtaba Teaching Hospital, Al‑Imam Al‑Hasan Teaching Hospital, Al‑Hindia Teaching Hospital, and Imam Al‑Hussein Medical City in Holy Karbala. A simple random sample of adults with T2DM was selected in the current study from the previously mentioned setting. A total of 140 patients were classified into 3 groups, 35 patients in the shot-blocker group, 36 patients in the vibration group, and 31 patients in the control group. Results There were statistically significant differences in pain scores among the study groups (P = 0.000). The vibration group had significantly lower pain scores (P = 0.000). Similarly, the shot-blocker group also demonstrated significantly lower pain scores (P = 0.000), compared to the control group. Regarding satisfaction scores, there were statistically significant differences among the groups (P = 0.000). The vibration group had significantly higher satisfaction scores (P = 0.000). Similarly, the shot-blocker group showed significantly higher satisfaction scores (P = 0.000), compared to the control group. Conclusions The shot-blocker and vibration device are effective, noninvasive methods for reducing pain and enhancing patient satisfaction during SC insulin injections in adults with T2DM.
Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes lower respiratory tract infections, particularly in children under 24 months of age. This multicenter study explored the demographics, seasonality, clinical features, and outcomes of children with RSV. Objectives To describe the epidemiology, seasonality, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of infants and children admitted with Respiratory Syncytial Virus bronchiolitis Methods An eight-center retrospective cohort study included children less than 24 months old who were admitted with RSV bronchiolitis between January 2018 and December 2021. Patients’ clinical features, respiratory support, management, and outcomes were collected. Results Of the 1585 children included, 1143 (72%) were less than 6-month-old. RSV peaked during the winter months of September to December in 2018 to 2019, but occurred earlier in 2021, with the easing of post-COVID-19 restrictions. The most common clinical features were cough (97.72%), tachypnea (76.15%), and fever (75.9%). Different types of respiratory support were needed, including high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) in 141 (8.9%) children, Non-invasive ventilation in 341 (21.5%), and intubation in 144 (9.1%). A total of 844 (53.2%) children required admission to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) or pediatric high-dependency unit (PHDU). The majority of children recovered uneventfully, while 19 patients died, resulting in a mortality rate of 1.2%. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the largest cohort study focused specifically on RSV bronchiolitis in infants within the Middle East. The majority were younger than 6 months of age, and coughing, tachypnea, and fever were the most common symptoms. Seasonality differed between the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods. More than half of the cohort required admission to a PICU or PHDU. All patients who died had either prematurity or chronic comorbidities. Further studies are required to predict the risk factors for critical cases.
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) combined with prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) versus PGE1 alone in children with d-looped transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA). The study was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and involved a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to November 2024. Keywords and Medical Subject Headings terms included “Balloon atrial septostomy,” “Great artery,” and “Prostaglandin.” Pooled odds ratios and mean differences (MDs) were calculated for dichotomous and continuous variables, respectively, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and a significance level of 0.05. BAS significantly improved oxygen saturation compared to baseline (MD = 24.77; 95% CI: 17.63, 31.91; P < 0.00001) and compared to no BAS (MD = 10.69; 95% CI: 7.3, 14.08; P < 0.00001). Fraction of inspired oxygen decreased with BAS relative to baseline (MD = −20.47; 95% CI: −26.76, −14.18; P < 0.00001) and to no BAS (MD = −9.35; 95% CI: −16.19, −2.51; P = 0.007). No significant differences were observed in mortality, hospitalization length, or PGE1 discontinuation between groups. However, BAS carried a low absolute stroke risk (0.038, 95% CI: 0.026‑0.102). These findings highlight the superior efficacy of BAS combined with PGE1 in improving oxygenation in children with d-TGA. Although associated with a moderate stroke risk, BAS did not increase mortality and may help optimize cerebral oxygenation and reduce hypoxia-related complications.
Background Child development involves a predictable progression of milestones. Delays can indicate developmental disabilities, which are increasingly prevalent, particularly in developing countries. While some Saudi studies exist, a national assessment is lacking. Objectives This study aims to determine the prevalence of developmental disabilities among school-aged children in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study utilized convenience sampling to recruit caregivers of children aged 6–12 years residing in Saudi Arabia. The sample size was calculated through an electronic survey distributed via social media platforms, encompassing demographics, parental concerns, and the validated Ten Question Screening Tool (TQS) for developmental disabilities. Results The study included 10,946 participants with a predominantly female population of caregivers (93.5%). Screening identified potential concerns in hearing (10.9%), learning (10.2%), and speech (6.6%). TQS indicated difficulties understanding instructions (24.4%), learning (18.3%), and speech (17.3%). The Child Disability Index (CDI) showed concentrated moderate disability. Specific developmental disorder (SDD) was more prevalent (74.9%) than minimal neurological dysfunction (MND) (25.1%), particularly in males (55.7%) and younger children (SDD 30.8%, MND 29.4%). Overall, 19.2% of children experienced developmental challenges. MND refers to modest neurological deficits impacting cognitive, behavioral, and motor abilities. Conclusion This study highlights a significant proportion of school-aged children experiencing developmental challenges (19.2%), including concerns in areas such as understanding instructions, learning, and speech. The findings underscore the need for enhanced awareness among caregivers and healthcare providers, improved early intervention services, and readily accessible support systems within the Saudi Arabian healthcare system.
