Thesis

Investigating asthma aetiology and remedies in Saudi Arabia and the UK: Assessing the impact of indoor air pollution and healthcare expertise on prescription expenses, within the realm of public health

Creator
Rights statement
Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2024
Thesis identifier
  • T16916
Person Identifier (Local)
  • 201955744
Qualification Level
Qualification Name
Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • Preface: This thesis presents a comprehensive exploration into the multifaceted aspects of asthma, particularly emphasizing the interplay between asthma and various environmental and societal factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, indoor air pollution, and healthcare practices. The research is contextualized within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, providing a comparative perspective on global and regional healthcare challenges and responses. Chapter 1: Introduction to the Thesis The opening chapter sets the stage for the entire thesis by providing an in-depth overview of asthma. This section is meticulously structured to cover a broad spectrum of topics related to this chronic respiratory condition. It begins with a clear definition of asthma, laying the foundation for subsequent discussions. The chapter proceeds to delve into the epidemiology of asthma, providing a critical analysis of its prevalence and impact on different populations. This is followed by an exploration of the pathophysiology and causes of asthma, offering insights into the biological and environmental factors contributing to its development. The clinical picture and diagnosis of asthma are then comprehensively discussed, highlighting the symptoms and diagnostic procedures. Finally, the chapter concludes with a detailed examination of asthma treatment, encompassing various therapeutic approaches and management strategies. Chapter 2: The Indoor Air Pollution and Childhood Asthma in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia The second chapter narrows the focus to the relationship between indoor air pollution and childhood asthma in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This segment of the thesis commences with an introduction that sets the context for the research, followed by a justification of the study. The chapter adopts a systematic approach in its methodology, delineating the steps taken from identifying the research question to charting the data and reporting the results. The findings section presents a detailed analysis of the diagnosis of childhood asthma in relation to indoor pollution. The discussion synthesizes the findings, and the chapter concludes with remarks and recommendations for future studies, proposing a prospective cohort study. Chapter 3: Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Primary Healthcare Providers in Makkah Chapter three shifts the focus to the knowledge, attitude, and practices of primary healthcare providers in Makkah regarding the assessment and management of acute asthma. This segment begins with an introduction that outlines the objective of the study. The method section details the approach taken for the research, followed by a results and discussion section that interprets the findings. Chapter 4: Prescription Pattern for Asthma Medications in the UK In chapter four, the thesis transitions to an examination of the prescription patterns for asthma medications in the UK, covering a decade from 2011 to 2021. This analysis is particularly poignant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The chapter begins with an introduction that sets the stage for a detailed discussion on the impact of the pandemic on asthma in the COVID era. The aims of the study are clearly outlined, followed by a comprehensive description of the methods used, including study design, data sources, and ethical considerations. The results section presents a thorough analysis of the prescription patterns. Chapter 5: Impact of Lockdown During COVID-19 Pandemic on Asthma Medication Utilization in the UK The fifth chapter addresses the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on the utilization patterns of asthma medications in the UK. This chapter begins with an introduction that frames the study within the context of the pandemic's broader medical impacts, especially on asthma exacerbations and medication use. The methods section delineates the study design, data sources, and analysis approach. The results are then presented, followed by a comprehensive discussion that delves into the findings and their implications. Conclusion The thesis culminates with a set of references and appendices that supplement the research. The references section provides a comprehensive list of all the sources cited throughout the thesis, ensuring that the research is grounded in existing literature and scientific evidence. The appendices section includes supplementary materials that support the research findings, such as data tables, questionnaires, and additional analyses. In summary, this thesis offers a holistic and nuanced examination of asthma, a condition that affects millions worldwide. By analyzing various factors such as indoor air pollution, healthcare practices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the research provides valuable insights into the management and treatment of asthma. The comparative analysis between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom offers a unique perspective on the global and regional dimensions of asthma, making this thesis a significant contribution to the field of public health.
Advisor / supervisor
  • Baker, Amanj Ismael
  • Khadra, Ibrahim
Resource Type
DOI
Date Created
  • 2023

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