A research achievement by Arab Gulf medical students published in an international scientific journal on early detection of breast cancer

A team of students from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at the Arabian Gulf University achieved a scientific achievement by publishing their research in BMC Primary Care, an international journal ranked in the top quartile (Q1) in terms of scientific impact. The research conducted by the students as part of the community-oriented research program examined the barriers that limit women in Kuwait’s commitment to early breast cancer screening.

The head of the student team, researcher Omar Al-Failakawi, said: “In this study, we sought to understand the real reasons behind the decline in breast cancer screening rates, as the percentage of those who underwent screening during the past two years did not exceed 25.4%, while more than half of the participants (52.2%) had never done it, even though the vast majority are aware of the existence of the National Screening Program.”

He added: “Among the most prominent obstacles that led to women’s lack of commitment to regular examinations were the fear of pain and physical discomfort, and poor knowledge of the correct timing for conducting and repeating the examination. The most prominent result was that obtaining a direct invitation from health authorities to undergo the examination was associated with a noticeable increase in the participation rate, which confirms that mere awareness of the existence of the program is not enough unless it is supported by practical steps that motivate and encourage women.”

These data highlight the need for more effective awareness campaigns, organized advocacy and reminder mechanisms, and professional consultations to reassure women, ensuring higher rates of early detection of breast cancer and reducing its health and economic burden in Kuwait.

For his part, the student researcher, Hussein Al-Ustaz, described the experience, saying: “This research trip was enriching on all levels, as we acquired practical skills in data analysis and direct communication with community members during the interviews we conducted in health centers. The Department of Family and Community Medicine at the Arabian Gulf University played a major role in preparing and supporting us from the first day. It contributed to teaching us the basics of scientific research and provided us with all the resources that contributed to achieving this achievement. We extend our thanks to the research supervisors who guided and guided us while working in “Project”.

The professor added: “After completing this research, we were able to present its results on the thirteenth research day at the Arabian Gulf University, and we were able, thanks to God, to obtain third place. We also had another participation in the twenty-ninth scientific poster conference at Kuwait University, and then the fruit of our efforts was publication in a journal of this level, which makes me and my colleagues proud of these achievements that give us a strong motivation to continue our path in scientific research.”

For his part, the main supervisor of the research, Professor Dr. Mohamed Hani Shehata, commented by saying: “This achievement is a true embodiment of our university’s philosophy of preparing future leaders in the health sector. The community-oriented research program moves the student from the classroom to the heart of the field to learn by doing and touch real health challenges. This direct contact refines the student’s personality as a researcher and leader, and enables him to provide innovative, evidence-based solutions, which is what this distinguished research reflects.”

He explained that reaching the level of publication in a classified journal is not obligatory for our students, but it requires passion, commitment, patience and perseverance, which this research team demonstrated with merit and with the grace of God Almighty. At the same time, he praised this publication, which reflects the quality of research training that students receive at the university, pointing out that students’ participation in internationally published scientific research contributes to preparing a generation of doctors capable of contributing to the development of medical knowledge at the regional and international levels.

The research team confirmed that their goal of the study is to support national efforts to enhance health awareness and enable women to undergo periodic examinations for early detection, which contributes to raising recovery rates and reducing complications.

It is noteworthy that the Arabian Gulf University encourages its students to engage in scientific research from the early stages of study, and provides a stimulating academic environment that contributes to refining research and scientific publishing skills in accordance with the highest international standards.