Journal of Community Medicine & Health Education
Open Access

Abstract

Aims: Womens health is a priority on the global agenda for gender equality in health. In Saudi Arabia women account for half of the population, yet there is scarcity of research related to their health issues. For the first time, this study explored Saudi womenâ��s perception of their physical, mental and social well-being, life style factors, and practices Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 900 women . Study instrument included variables about demographic characteristics, medical history, life style practices, psychological evaluation, perceived causes of disease and death, barriers to prevention, and self-rated physical and mental health. Descriptive statistics was conducted for all study variables in addition to bivariate and multivariate logistic regression for predictors of health and well-being. Results:The overall mean age was 29 �± 9.7 years. The majority (78%) of women rated their physical health as excellent, very good, or good. Also, 80% rated their mental health as good or better. More than half (54%) rated their social well-being as favorable. Optimal health as a combination of all three variables (physical, mental and social and well-being) was perceived low by 34% of participants. High level of education (OR= 8.8; p <0.001), high income level (OR=7.5; p < 0.001), unfavorable built environment (OR=0.08; p < 0.001), depression (OR = 0.4; p <0.001), and back pain (OR=0.4; p < 0.008), were all independent predictors of self-rated health. Conclusions: The enjoyment of highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being regardless of race, religion, economic, social condition, or gender.This study is a weak up call to prioritize womens health in Saudi Arabia.

Biography

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