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This study aimed to assess the long-term trends in PM10, PM2.5, and hazardous trace elements in Makkah from 2020 to 2024, evaluating seasonal variations, health risks, and potential mitigation strategies. The results indicated that the PM10 concentrations ranged from a minimum of 127.7 ± 14.2 µg/m3 (2020) to a maximum of 138.3 ± 15.7 µg/m3 (2024), while PM2.5 levels varied between 100.7 ± 18.7 µg/m3 and 109.8 ± 21.3 µg/m3. A seasonal analysis showed the highest PM10 and PM2.5 levels during winter (147.8 ± 16.4 µg/m3 and 119.5 ± 21.7 µg/m3 in 2024, respectively), coinciding with lower wind speeds and reduced dispersion. Among the nine trace elements analyzed, Cr VI exhibited the highest increase from 0.008 ± 0.001 µg/m3 (2020) to 0.012 ± 0.001 µg/m3 (2024), while Cd and Ni also rose significantly. The excess cancer risk (ECR) associated with these pollutants exceeded the recommended threshold, with a strong correlation between PM10 and ECR (r = 0.85–0.93, p < 0.01). These findings highlight the need for enhanced air quality monitoring and sustainable urban planning. Future research should focus on identifying the dominant pollution sources and assessing the long-term health impacts to support evidence-based air quality management in Makkah.

Evidence suggests that air pollution, specifically the particulate matters PM2.5 and PM10, plays a key role in exacerbating the risk of prolonged symptoms following COVID-19 infection. Aim: This study endeavors to elucidate the potential interaction between chronic air pollution exposure and the manifestation of long COVID symptoms within a cohort based in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: Participants included residents from the Makkah region who had recovered from COVID-19 between 2022 and 2023. A comprehensive questionnaire was utilized to gather detailed demographic data and assess the persistent symptoms seen during the post-COVID period. To gauge the environmental exposure to potential risk factors, air sampling for PM10 and PM2.5 was systematically conducted in various locations in Makkah over a year. Results: Significant positive associations were found between PM2.5 and PM10 exposure and long COVID. Furthermore, specific symptom analysis revealed a significant association between air pollution and shortness of breath (for PM2.5). Only PM2.5 exposure remained statistically significant (RR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.67). In contrast, the association with PM10 remained on the cusp of significance, with an RR of 1.27 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.61). Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of reducing air pollution levels to mitigate the long-term health consequences of COVID-19.

Introduction: Inadequate levels of iron, zinc, and copper have been linked to growth impairment and cognitive and motor development deficits. The objective of this study is to examine the deficiencies of trace elements and their correlation with selective eating patterns and the intelligence quotient (IQ) of children. Methods and Patients: The cross-sectional analysis involved 430 children aged between 7 and 10 years. Blood samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to measure the trace elements levels. Children’s IQs were assessed using Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices. Results: Among the sample group, 20.3% exhibited iron deficiency, 42.5% had zinc deficiency, and 14% had insufficient copper levels. Single trace element deficiency was observed in 56.9% of the children, while 66.7% showed coexisting deficiencies of iron and zinc. Children with lower development levels exhibited significantly lower serum zinc levels compared to those with higher development levels (76.78 ± 10.67 vs. 81.14 ± 10.19 μg/dL). The analysis reveals that picky eaters had lower serum iron levels (76.59 ± 10.42 μg/dL) and higher serum copper levels (123.74 ± 13.45 μg/dL). Conclusion: A strong association was observed between zinc deficiency, picky eating habits, and lower developmental stages. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring nutritional status in children, given the significant implications for their cognitive development.

Objective Despite several studies assessing the impact of resveratrol on obesity indices, previous meta-analyses show conflicting results. Therefore, we conducted this critical umbrella review of interventional meta-analyses on the effect of resveratrol supplementation on body mass index (BMI), body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC), and body fat. Methods Searches were conducted across multiple databases to identify all relevant meta-analyses up to September 30th, 2025. Reported pooled effect sizes (ESs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted from each included study and synthesized using a random-effects model. Methodological quality was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool. Results Ultimately, 18 meta-analyses were included, with results showing a small but statistically significant reduction in BW (ES: − 0.18 kg, 95% CI − 0.32 to − 0.03, p  = 0.02), BMI (ES: − 0.14 kg/m 2 , 95% CI − 0.2 to − 0.08, p  < 0.001), WC (ES − 0.43 cm, 95% CI − 0.64 to − 0.22, p  < 0.001), and body fat (ES: − 0.3 kg, 95% CI − 0.48 to − 0.12, p  = 0.001) in the resveratrol group compared to the control group, with subgroup analysis revealing statistical significance only in subgroups with doses > 400 mg/day and study duration ˃ 12 weeks. Conclusion Our review confirms that resveratrol supplementation reduces BW, BMI, WC, and body fat, particularly on doses > 400 mg/day and interventions lasting ˃12 weeks, with small effect sizes. Based on our findings, resveratrol supplementation could be considered as a complementary therapy in the management of obesity.

Background and Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with various cardiometabolic risk factors, including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity, which contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This inaugural systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the impact of magnesium supplementation on various cardiometabolic risk factors and hormonal parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods: We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases until 30 March 2024 for studies comparing magnesium supplementation to control in improving cardiometabolic and hormonal factors in PCOS patients. Endpoints were summarized as mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in a random-effects model. Results: The primary search yielded 176 studies. After screening, six studies met our inclusion criteria. Our meta-analysis showed no significant effects of magnesium supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors and hormonal parameters in patients with PCOS. Conclusions: Magnesium supplementation does not appear to influence the cardiometabolic and hormonal factors in PCOS patients. Further rigorous RCTs are needed to strengthen the evidence and support comprehensive analysis in this area. PROSPERO database (CRD42024526110).

Background Hajj, one of the largest annual religious gatherings, attracts millions of Muslim pilgrims globally, with a significant proportion being older adults. Cognitive impairment, encompassing mild cognitive decline to dementia, is a prevalent condition among older adults and can significantly affect their ability to participate in the physically and mentally demanding rituals of Hajj. Despite its implications, data on the prevalence and associated factors of cognitive impairment among pilgrims remain limited. Objective This study aimed to assess the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults Hajj pilgrims and to explore its associations with demographic, linguistic, and medical history variables. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted during the 1445 Hijri Calander (2024 AD) Hajj season in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 3,111 pilgrims aged 60 years and older were recruited using multistage sampling. Data were collected through bilingual (Arabic and English) face-to-face interviews, employing the validated Ascertain Dementia 8 (AD8) screening tool. Additional data included demographic characteristics, health conditions, medication use, and cognitive challenges. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and descriptive summaries to determine significant predictors of cognitive impairment. Results The prevalence of positive cognitive screening impairment was 64.0%, with a mean AD8 score of 3.09 ± 2.68. Participants aged 80 years and above exhibited the highest prevalence (78.5%), followed by those aged 70–79 years (67.2%) and 60–69 years (58.4%) ( p  < 0.001). Urdu-speaking individuals (OR: 2.132, 95% CI: 1.018–4.468), Nigerian nationality (OR: 7.594, 95% CI: 1.951–29.555), and Southeast Asia clusters ( p  = 0.033, OR: 2.086, 95% CI: 1.059–4.108) had a significantly higher prevalence of cognitive impairment by screening. Chronic conditions such as diabetes (OR: 1.839, p  < 0.001), hypertension (OR: 2.420, p  < 0.001), and hyperlipidemia (OR: 1.446, p  = 0.001) were significantly associated with cognitive impairment positive screening along with prior cognitive impairment disorders diagnosis (OR: 2.367, p  = 0.038). Participants who reported difficulties with remembering appointments (40.3%) and managing finances (34.6%) were more likely to exhibit cognitive impairment positive screening. Conclusion Probable cognitive impairment positive screening among older adults Hajj pilgrims was significantly associated with clinical factors including diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, prior diagnosis of cognitive impairment disorders, and informant-based reporting. These findings underscore the importance of pre-travel cognitive assessments, targeted health interventions, and culturally sensitive support services to ensure safe and inclusive participation. This study provides crucial evidence to guide future healthcare policies and interventions aimed at supporting older adults’ pilgrims.

The potential migration of chemical compounds from plastic food packaging poses significant health risks, necessitating continuous monitoring and enhanced safety protocols. This study aimed to investigate the migration of nine chemical groups, including alanine, acetic acid, cyano derivatives, urea, amines, amides, benzene derivatives, nitrites, and non-specified compounds, across different food categories. A total of 195 packaged food samples from eleven food categories were analyzed using Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and quantify chemical migrants. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in migration levels among food categories (p < 0.05). Cheese, candies, and chips exhibited the highest concentrations of alanine (65.95 ± 0.6384 mg/kg), acetic acid (57.80 ± 0.6383 mg/kg), and benzene derivatives (59.96 ± 1.844 mg/kg), respectively, while frozen raw meat and seafood showed the lowest levels for most compounds. High benzene and nitrite concentrations in certain samples raised particular concern due to their carcinogenic and toxicological effects. Regression analysis confirmed that food matrix type is a strong predictor of migration levels for several compounds. The findings emphasize the urgent need for stricter regulation, improved analytical techniques, and the development of safer packaging materials to reduce chemical migration risks and protect public health.

Carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (cPAHs) are considered the most serious cancer risk. This study was conducted to assess the effect of acute exposure to cPAHs on cancer biomarker proteins p53 and p21 in occupational workers during the hajj season in Makkah. One hundred five participants were recruited, including occupational workers and apparently healthy individuals; air samples were collected using personal sample monitors to identify the subjects’ exposure to cPAHs. Quantitative analyses of benzo(a)anthracene (BaA), benzo(b)fluoranthene (BbF), benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), dibenzo(a,h)fluronathene (DBA), indeno(1,2,3-c,d)pyrene (IND) and chyresene (CRY) were carried out using the GC/Mass technique. Serum p53 and p21 proteins were analyzed using ELISA. The ambient air samples collected by the occupationally exposed group were more highly polluted by cPAHs, (90.25 ± 14.1) ng/m3, than those of the unexposed control groups, (30.12 ± 5.56) ng/m3. The concentration of distributive cPAHs was markedly more elevated in the air samples of the exposed group than in those taken from the non-exposed group. The study results demonstrated significant links between short-term exposure to cPAHs and serum p53 and p21 levels. Serum p53 and p21 proteins potentially influence biomarkers when exposed to ambient air cPAHs.

Background: Recent studies indicate that vitamin D impacts male reproductive function, with deficiency linked to infertility. This review evaluates the effect of vitamin D supplementation on male fertility, focusing on total testosterone, free testosterone, the free androgen index (FAI), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and estradiol. Methods: We systematically searched Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from their inception until July 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adult males. The primary focus of these studies was on reproductive hormone parameters, analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis and weighted mean difference (WMD). Evidence quality was assessed using ROB2 and GRADE. Meta-regression and dose–response analyses were performed. Results: Seventeen studies met the criteria for quantitative analysis. Vitamin D supplementation significantly increased total testosterone levels (WMD 0.38, 95% CI 0.06–0.70, n = 15, I2 = 67.03). However, it had no significant effect on other hormone parameters: free testosterone (WMD 0.00, 95% CI −0.02–0.03, n = 9, I2 = 48.12), FSH (WMD −0.02, 95% CI −0.57–0.53, n = 7, I2 = 48.72), LH (WMD −0.09, 95% CI −0.30–0.12, n = 8, I2 = 0.00), SHBG (WMD 0.73, 95% CI −1.14–2.61, n = 10, I2 = 69.05), FAI (WMD −0.92, 95% CI −2.12–0.27, n = 6, I2 = 0.00), and estradiol (WMD −0.02, 95% CI −2.95–2.92, n = 5, I2 = 20.63). Conclusion: This meta-analysis shows that vitamin D supplementation may increase total testosterone levels in men. However, further well-designed RCTs are needed to determine vitamin D’s effects on other reproductive hormone parameters.

Background: While efforts have been made to control meningococcal disease or carriage during mass gatherings (MGs), it is still a significant problem. This meta-analysis aims to assess the prevalence and predictors of meningitis carriage during MGs and travel. Methodology: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane were searched from their conception to January 2025. Cohort and cross-sectional studies assessing the prevalence of meningitis carriage and its serotype related to MGs and/or travel, and risk factors associated with its spread, were considered. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale was used for the quality assessment of studies. Results: Out of 1301 studies, 25 were considered for this meta-analysis. The largest geographic area involved was Saudi Arabia. A meta-analysis of 24 studies identified a pooled prevalence rate of meningococcal disease or carriage of 15.9% (95%CI: 4.45–27.4%) and the most frequent infecting organisms to be Serotype C (13.9%; 95%CI: −14.7 to 42.5; 4 studies) and A (11.5%; 95%CI: −2.13 to 25.2; 9 studies) among those at MGs or traveling. Age, gender, smoking history, and the vaccination status did not affect the infection risk. Conclusions: There is an increased prevalence of meningococcal disease and carriage, especially Serogroups A and C, associated with MGs and travel. New interventions and methodologies should be undertaken to control and prevent meningococcal disease or carriage transmission during such events.