Objectives: To evaluate possible associations between the genetic polymorphism of the STK 11 gene and response to metformin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Methods: This is a prospective longitudinal cohort study of 57 women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Baseline documentation of anthropometric measurements, menstrual history, hirsutism, hair loss, acne, and biochemical parameters, in addition to gene testing for STK11 polymorphism, were performed. Follow-up was arranged at 6 cycles following oral metformin therapy, 850 mg, twice daily. Results: Post-metformin therapy, there were statistically significant improvements in menstrual frequency, blood loss, acne, ultrasound findings, and a decrease in BMI, acne and hirsutism, but not in alopecia. Fasting insulin decreased significantly, but fasting blood sugar did not. Regarding Intron1 polymorphism, there was a significant response in the CC subgroup in menstrual regularity and blood loss. The CG subgroup showed a significant response in menstrual regularity and ultrasound findings. The GG subgroup showed a significant response in menstrual regularity, menstrual loss, acne and alopecia. Regarding Intron 6 polymorphism, there was a significant response in the CC subgroup in relation to menstrual regularity, blood loss, acne and ultrasound findings. The CT subgroup showed a significant response in menstrual regularity and ultrasound findings. The TT subgroup showed a significant response only in relation to alopecia. Conclusion: Polymorphism in STK11 is not predictive of response to metformin therapy at a dose of 850 mg, twice daily.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for smoking and negative perinatal outcomes among Jordanian women about smoking status. Methods: A case-control study was conducted among singleton full-term pregnant women who gave birth at the main hospital in Jordan in June 2020. They were divided into three groups according to their smoking status (active, passive and non-smokers) and were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire, including demographic information, current pregnancy history, perinatal and neonatal outcomes. The study investigated the effect of smoking status on both independent and dependent variables. Results: Our study revealed that low-level maternal education (OR=25.38), unemployed maternal status (OR=2.67), the absence of following up during pregnancy (OR=5.8), smoking husband were risk factors for smoke exposure among pregnant women. The risk for cesarean section was increased in nulliparous smoking women (OR=9.0), those with low family monthly income (OR=7.8), and those who did not get any information about the hazard effect of smoking (OR=4.38), as well as in unemployed passive smoking women (OR=6.25). Parity of more than one has raised the risk of NICU admission inactive smoking women (OR=10.38). This risk was also increased in active and passive women with a lower level of education (OR=186.33 and OR=17.5), respectively, as well as inactive smoking women with low family monthly income (OR=4.11). Conclusions: Appropriate preventive strategies should focus on modifiable risk factors for smoking during pregnancy.

Objectives: To explore Knowledge and perceptions about COVID-19, among Syrian refugee mothers in Irbid governorate, the first outbreak of coronavirus in Jordan. Methods: This is an exploratory cross-section study was conducted among Syrian refugee mothers, who were currently pregnant or have a newborn child. The data collected through an online survey in April 2020 in North Jordan. Results: A total of 389 Syrian refugee mothers have participated in the study. The study showed that 66% of mothers often access information regarding COVID-19. The main used resources for information, were Facebook pages’ posters (87%), WhatsApp groups’ messages (69%), Television News (53%). While 21% indicated that they access a professional database or governmental websites. In general, Syrian refugee mothers appear well knowledgeable about COVID-19 the transition ways and prevention measures, and aspects that should be considered when diagnosing Coronavirus cases. However, they appeared to have a lack of knowledge about the aspects that should be considered for the transition of COVID-19 between the mother and the child and the concepts about the smoking risks associated with COVID-19. Conclusions: There is less focusing on media on aspects or still understudying of concepts about the smoking risks associated with COVID-19 and concepts around the transition of COVID-19 between the mother and the child. Providing health education regarding COVID-19 to mothers in Irbid would be helpful.