Background Research self-efficacy is one of the crucial predictors of productively engaging in research activities emphasized by the Qatar National Vision 2030. Nevertheless, studies typically focus on research self-efficacy among students, neglecting physicians, despite the importance of research as competency in continuous professional development. Therefore, the objective of our study is to understand the level of research self-efficacy among physicians and its determinants.  Methods An analytical cross-sectional design was employed. We utilized an open survey through DACIMA Software that included questions related to Self-Efficacy in Research Measure (SERM) and possible determinants. One-hundred-twenty-two completed answers, and the response rate was 19.2%. Following descriptive analyses, a chi-square test was used to uncover the associations among variables, with significance set to p ≤ 0.05. Next, a logistic regression model was conducted to identify the predictors of a low research self-efficacy level. Finally, reliability and principal component analysis were applied on the SERM scale. Results Three-quarters of the sample reported insufficient research self-efficacy. The sociodemographic and professional factors did not significantly associate with insufficient research self-efficacy. However, participation in clinical guidelines proved to be a determinant of sufficient research self-efficacy. Conclusions Physicians must be encouraged to participate in clinical guidelines to improve their research self-efficacy level.

ObjectiveTo estimate the magnitude and the determinants of iron deficiency among adolescents aged 10–19 years in the State of Qatar.DesignA cross-sectional study design was used to conduct the study.SettingPrimary healthcare centres covering the three main geographical areas. One health centre was selected randomly from each region catchment areas: Northern, Central and Western.ParticipantsFour hundred and fifty adolescents aged 10–19 years of all nationalities were enrolled in the study.Outcome measuresSerum ferritin cut-off level used to diagnose iron deficiency (<15 µg/L), with normal C reactive protein.ResultsThe mean age of the participants was 14.00±2.920, and more than half of the participating adolescents were among 10–14 years old age group (56.9%). Fifty-five per cent of the study participants were Non-Qatari, and females consisted of 70.0% of the participants. The prevalence of iron deficiency was 26.4%. Iron deficiency was significantly associated with gender, nationality, attaining menarche and consumption of iron absorption enhancers (citrus fruits and juice).ConclusionIron deficiency among adolescents is of moderate public health concern in the country, according to the classification of the WHO. The estimated prevalence of iron deficiency was close to what was found in other low-income and middle-income countries; however, it is still behind the developed countries. Gender, attaining menarche and dietary habits are among the important factors that are associated with iron deficiency. Thus, there is a need to coordinate efforts and resources to address this issue by implementing effective strategies at the community and primary healthcare levels.

Background Anxiety among adolescents may lead to disability and has a tremendous impact on one’s quality of life. The alarming COVID-19 pandemic is expected to increase the anxiety level of adolescents especially with enforced governmental management strategies. This study will assess anxiety symptoms among secondary school students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Qatar. Methods We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study among adolescents attending independent secondary schools in Qatar. First, potential participants were invited through Microsoft teams. Next, a total of 750 participants were assessed through the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) tool. We then conducted descriptive analyses and the Chi-square test to examine significant determinants of anxiety, which was followed by logistic regression analysis. In the end, the scale was tested for its internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha. Results Anxiety symptoms were seen in 37.2% of the participants. Female gender, previous history of mental illness, comorbidities, permissive parenting style, and spending more than 12 h per day on the internet were significant determinants of anxiety. Furthermore, a previous history of mental illness, low perceived social support, isolation, and social distancing predicted anxiety. Conclusions Anxiety is common among secondary school students in Qatar, and preventive interventions must target the determinants, especially during a pandemic.