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The Department of Behavioral Medicine is an interdisciplinary field of medicine concerned with the integration of knowledge in the biological, behavioral, psychological, and social sciences relevant to health and illness.  Therefore, the Department embraced the expertise from diverse field including psychological sciences, anthropology, sociology and clinical psychiatry. The available services is one of the best in the country, and was one of the very first to provide modern diagnosis and research on behavioral medicine. On its application to clinical services, the Department provides state-of-the-art treatment and care of psychiatric disorders, much of it based on the innovative research done by our faculty. The Department has fully functioning services that address and furnish health care need relevant for all developmental milestones: ‘cradle to the grave’.  Thus, the Department caters the need for child and adolescence mental health services, general adult mental health services as well as geriatric psychiatry.   On this ground, the department strives, as an academic and clinical department, for excellence in learning, teaching and research and to be the flagship department in its field in Oman and the region. There is ample evidence to suggest that most illnesses, whether physical or psychiatric, are invariably influenced by biology, psychological and social factors and so this biopsychosocial approach is necessary. In this context, in the approach to learning, teaching and research, efforts are made to determine how biopsychosocial factors are central to the predisposition, onset, course and outcome of most disorders. 

                                                          

 

Dr. Hamed Al Sinawi

Head of Behavioural Medicine Department
 

Whilst communicable diseases continue to be a source of attrition in a country like Oman, there is also the ‘silent epidemic’ of non-communicable diseases, often precipitated and exacerbated by an individual’s behaviour and lifestyle which can result in serious distress and often fatal diseases. Research in the Department has specifically focused on the psychosocial determinants of health and ill-health since biological sciences alone are not sufficient in the prevention of and intervention in matters related to disease. This has led Department researchers to establish cultural variations as a pillar of establishing psychological services in Oman. Research coming from this Department indicates that the incidence of psychological distress in Oman is common, with some minor differences in the incidence of the types of reaction. 
 

We have come a long way since the time when the relevance of behavioural input in medical science was considered to be a 'luxury' only affordable in the industrialised part of the world.  Now the question is not how relevant behavioural medicine is for Oman, but how Oman is implementing behavioural medicine in its healthcare infrastructure. Given the rising magnitude of non-communicable diseases, there is immense relevance in a scientific approach to the study of human behaviour.  

To promote excellence in research, development and teaching of psychiatry and its allied subjects and to apply and disseminate this knowledge with the aim of preventing mental disorders and developing treatment for the relief of suffering. Throughout our courses, we endeavor to develop in our students, the right attitude towards patients and society. We need to have more human resource both in the clinical and preclinical to cope with the actual and projected increasing number of students, to cope with the new curriculum requirements and to deal with increasing demand of the society, also to organize workshops and seminars for doctors, social workers and allied mental health professionals to ensure awareness of mental health and educate people on the human look to mental health.

 

Postgraduate Programme

The Department train Family Medicine & Community Health residents and contributed to revising the programmes for the examination for Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners (MRCGP), the Arab Board of Psychiatry and the Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB) residency training programme (including writing the curriculum, preparing for examinations and writing their programmes).

 

TRAINING COURSES & CME ACTIVITIES 

The Department conducted a number of workshops on various aspects of stress and coping; the psychology of chronic disease management; research methodology, and issues pertinent to social medicine.

2018

RESEARCH

RESEARCH PROJECTS

 

Demographic Characteristics and Clinical Profile of Suicide Attempts Attending Emergency Department at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman: A Cross Section Study

Code: MREC #1653  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Samir Al-Adawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence and Correlates of Depressive Symptoms in HIV Positive Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman

Code: MREC #1660  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Samir Al-Adawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Effectiveness and Adverse Effects Associated with the Use of Methylphenidate or Atomoxetine in Children with a Dual Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders

Code: MREC #1694  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Hassan Mirza, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus at SQUH

Code: MREC #1698  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Rodger Martin, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Clinical and Sociodemographic Profile of Omani Adolescents with Mood Disorders: A Cross Sectional Descriptive Study

Code: MREC #1706  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Hassan Mirza, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Risperidone in Managing Maladaptive Behavior in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in a Naturalistic Clinical Setting at a University Hospital in Oman

Code: MREC #1707  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Hassan Mirza, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

A Cross-Cultural Exploration of the Prevalence of Eating Disorders and their Characteristics in the UK and Oman

Code: MREC #1718  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Hassan Mirza, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Social Anxiety Disorder Among Omani Adults

Code: MREC #1749  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

 

Investigators: Amaal Ambusaidi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Psychotropic Induced Weight Gain among Psychiatric Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital (SQUH) in Oman

Code: MREC #1754  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Nasser Al Sibani, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety and their Severity among Patients with Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases Attending a Tertiary Care Rheumatology Clinic in Muscat

Code: MREC #1761  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Rodger Martin, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Impact of Sleep Habits and Sleep Problems on the Academic Performance of Medical Stidemts in Oman

Code: MREC #1775  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Samir Al-Adawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms among Patients with IBD Attending Sultan Qaboos University Hospital

Code: MREC #1836  Dates: 2018 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Nasser Al Sibani, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

 

2017

RESEARCH

Research Projects 

 

The Practice of Prescribing Antidepressants during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding among Psychiatrists in Oman

Investigators: Dr Yusif A. Obeid, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Cigarette Smoking among Patients with Mental Disorders Attending Outpatient Clinic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Investigastors: Dr Hamed Al Senawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depression among Patients with Diabetes Among a Tertiary Hospital in Oman

Investigators: Dr Ather Sajjad Jafri, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Perception of Recreational Substance Use among Undergraduate Students, SQU, Sultanate of  Oman

Investigators: Dr Yousif A Obeid, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Cognitive, Emotional and Behavioral Status of Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury and their Caregivers in Oman

Investigators: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence and Correlates of Antipsychotic Polypharmacy among Psychiatric In-Patients at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Senawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence and Predictors of Metabolic Syndrome among Patients Prescribed Second Generation Antipsychotics Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman

Investigators: Dr Nasser Al Sibani, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Antidepressants’ Side Effects among Patients Attending Psychiatry Clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Senawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU.

 

 

Research Publications & Books  

 Journal Publications 

  1. Sulaiman MA, Al-Farsi YM, Al-Khaduri MM, Waly MI, Saleh J, Al-Adawi S. Psychological burden among women with polycystic ovarian syndrome in Oman: a case–control study. International Journal of Women’s Health. 2017:9; 897—904. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJWH.S145383.

 

  1. Al-Alawi M, Al-Sinawi H, Al-Qubtan A, Al-Lawati J, -Habsi AA, Al-Shuraiqi M, Al-Adawi S, Panchatcharam SM.Prevalence and determinants of Burnout Syndrome and Depression among medical students at Sultan Qaboos University: A cross-sectional analytical study from Oman. Archives of Environmental & Occupational Health. 2017 Nov 8:0. doi: 10.1080/19338244.2017.1400941.

 

  1. Mirza H, Roberts E, Al-Belushi M, Al-Salti H, Al-Hosni A, Jeyaseelan L, Al-Adawi S. School Dropout and Associated Factors Among Omani Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 2017 Nov 1. doi: 10.1097/DBP.0000000000000522.

 

  1. Al Balushi N, Al Shekaili M, Al-Alawi, Al Balushi M, Murthi S, Al-Adawi S. Prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among caregivers of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder attending a tertiary care facility: A cross-sectional analytical study from Muscat, Oman.  Early Child Development and Care   10.1080/03004430.2017.1394850.

 

  1. Braithwaite J, Mannion R, Matsuyama Y, Shekelle P, Whittaker P, Al-Adawi S, Ludlow K, James W, Ting HP, Herkes J, Ellis L, Churruca K, Nicklin W, Hughes C (2017). Accomplishing reform: successful case studies drawn from the health systems of 60 countries. International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 2017, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzx122

 

  1. Alobaidy A, Al-Sinawi H, Al-Asmi A, Al-Adawi S, Mohamed Essa M, El-Okl M, Jeyaseelan L, Alsawafi L, Almawali M, Alabri B, Alhamrashdi H. CERAD Neuropsychological Battery-Arabic Version: Regression-Based and Stratified Normative Data and Effects of Demographic Variables on Cognitive Performance in Older Omanis. Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology 2017 Dec;30(4):150-158. doi:10.1097/WNN.0000000000000136.

 

  1. Al-Alawi M, Al-Sinawi H, Al-Husseini S, Al-Adawi S, Panchatcharam SM, Khan S, Jeyaseelan L. Influence of Eysenckian Personality Traits in Choice of Specialization by Young Omani Doctors. Oman Medical Journal. 2017 Jul;32(4):291-296. doi: 10.5001/omj.2017.57.

 

  1. MacFarland AS, Al-Maashani M, Al Busaidi Q, Al-Naamani A, El-Bouri M, Al-Adawi S. Culture-Specific Pathogenicity of Dhat (Semen-Loss) Syndrome in an Arab/Islamic society, Oman. Oman Medical Journal 2017; 32: DOI 10.5001/omj.2017.

 

  1. Al-Adawi S. Mental Health Services in Oman: The Need for More Cultural Relevance.  OMJ 2017; 32 (2): 83-85.

 

  1. Al Azri M, Al Reesi H, Al-Adawi S, Al Maniri A, Freeman J. Personality of young drivers in Oman: relationship to risky driving behaviors and crash involvement among Sultan Qaboos University students. Traffic Injury Prevention 2017 Feb 17;18(2):150-156. doi: 10.1080/15389588.2016.1235269.

 

  1. Al-Alawi M, Al-Sinawi H, Al-Adawi S, Jeyaseelan L, Murthi S. Public Perception of Mental Illness in Oman: a Cross Sectional Study,  Int J of Culture and Mental Health V.10:4, PP 389-399, 2017.

 

  1. Narayanan A, Lal C, Al-Sinawi H. General Anaesthesia Protocols for Patients Undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy: Retrospective analysis of 504 sessions over a five-year period at a tertiary care hospital in Oman. SQUMJ 17.1 (2017): e43.

 

  1. Al-Shehhi AI, Al-Sinawi HN, Jose S, Youssef R. Rate and predictors of 1-year readmission in tertiary psychiatric hospitals. SJMMS Sep. 2017; 1;5(3):224.

 

 

BOOKS AND BOOK CHAPTER 

  1. Braithwaite J, Mannion R, Matsuyama Y, Shekelle P, Whittaker S, Al-Adawi S Health Systems Improvement across the Globe: Success Stories from 60 Countries. New York, CRC Press. Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2017.

 

  1. Al-Adawi S. Substance abuse in the Gulf cooperation Council States. In Ravinder Mamtani & Albert B. Lowenfels MD (Editors), Critical Issues in Healthcare Policy and Politics in the Gulf Cooperation Council States.  Washington; Georgetown University Press, 2017. 

 

 

Conference & Seminar Presentations  

  1. Musharrafi S, Al-Ruzaiqi W, Al-Adawi S.  Mental health stigma among Oman Medical Speciality Board (OMSB) residents. European Psychiatry, 41 (Supplement), April 2017, S516. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.675.

 

  1. Musharrafi S, Al-Kalbani Y, Al-Adawi S. Performance of cognitive measures and affective ranges in clients marked with spirit possession in Oman. European Psychiatry, Volume 41, Supplement, April 2017, Page 516.

 

  1. Al Balushi N,  Al-Adawi S. Caregiver depression screening in a child and adolescent clinic seeking consultation for their children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity in Oman. European Psychiatry, Volume 41, Supplement, April 2017, Page 121.

 

  1. Al Balushi N, Al Shukaili M, Al Adawi S. Burden for caregivers of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Oman. European Psychiatry, Volume 41, Supplement, April 2017, Pages 120-121.

 

 

Thesis Supervision

 

 

Student name:              Muna Shaaban Ajzoon

 

Qualification:                 Ph.D.

 

Title:                               Alcohol and Substance Use Knowledge, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, Self-Efficacy, Perceived Behavioural Control and Behavioural Intentions among Omani College Students

 

Supervisor                        Prof. Samir Al-Adawi

 

Date of completion:       Ongoing

 

2016

RESEARCH

Research Projects 

 

Novice Driver Safety in Oman (Oman Road Safety Research Program)

Dates: 2016  Funder: Research Council of the Sultanate of Oman . Project Approval: TRC

Investigator: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Heavy Vehicle (Truck) Research in Oman (Oman Road Safety Research Program)

Dates: 2016  Funder: Research Council of the Sultanate of Oman . Project Approval: TRC

Investigator: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU 

 

Prevalence and Correlates of Postpartum Depression in Women at SQU

Code: MREC # 016  Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Sinawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence and Correlates of Polypharmacy in Elderly Hospitalized Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Code: MREC # 022  Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Sinawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU. Dr. Amna Al Hashar, Pharmacy

 

Guilt Feeling among Dementia Caregivers Attending a Tertiary Care Clinic in Oman

Code: MREC # 029  Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Sinawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Mental Health Stigma Among OMSB Residents

Code: MREC #034  Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Burden of Care among Caregivers Attending Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic

Code: MREC #044   Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Dr Amira Al Hosni, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Nurses Attitudes towards Mental Illness at SQUH

Code: MREC #077  Dates: 2016 Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Dr Mohammed Al Alawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

 

 

Stress and Burnout among Medical Students in Oman

Code: MREC #078  Dates: 2016  Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigators: Dr Hamed Al Sinawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

A Descriptive Study of Referral Pattern in the Department of Psychiatry at SQUH

Code: MREC # 015 Dates: 2016  Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Dr Rodger Martin, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Clinical Profile of Children and Adolescents Diagnosed with Acute Psychosis Admitted to Psychiatry Ward at SQUH

Code: MREC # 092 Dates: 2016  Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Dr Amira Al Hosni, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depression among Patients with Breast Cancer

Code: MREC # 122  Dates: 2016  Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Dr Amira Al Hosni, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

Prevalence of Depression in Children with Epilepsy Attending at a Tertiary Hospital in Oman

Code: MREC # 127  Dates: 2016  Value: Unfunded  Project Approval: SQU

Investigator: Dr Hamood Al Kiyumi, Resident, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

 

Research Publications & Books

 Journal Publications 

  1. Al-Adawi S, Al-Naamani A, Al-Farsi Y,  Essa MM, Burke DT, El-Bouri M, Amstrong, K, Edwards J, Al-Muscati S, MacFarland AS, Al Maashani, A. Elucidating the neuropsychological profile of apathetic syndrome and disinhibition syndrome in a brain-injured population in Oman. Int J Nutr Pharmacol Neuroj Dis 2016; 6(1): 35-45.

 

  1. Al-Mandhari A, Al-Zakwani I, Al-Adawi S, Al-Barwani S, Jeyaseelan L. Awareness and implementation of nine World Health Organization's patient safety solutions among three groups of healthcare workers in Oman. BMC Health Serv. Res. 2016;16(1):533.

 

  1. Al Azri M, Al Reesi H, Al-Adawi S, Al Maniri A, Freeman J. Personality of young drivers in oman: relationship to risky driving behaviors and crash involvement among Sultan Qaboos University Students.  Traffic Inj Prev  2016;3.

 

  1. Al-Sharbati MM, Al-Farsi YM, Al-Sharbati ZM, Al-Sulaimani F, Ouhtit A, Al-Adawi S. Profile of Mental and Behavioral Disorders Among Preschoolers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman: A Retrospective Study. Oman Med J  2016;31(5):357-64. doi: 10.5001/omj.2016.71.

 

  1. Al-Farsi OA, Al-Farsi YM, Al-Sharbati MM, Al-Adawi S. Stress, anxiety, and depression among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in Oman: a case-control study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2016;12:1943-51. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S107103.

 

  1. Braidy N, Essa MM, Poljak A, Subash S, Al-Adawi S, Manivasagm T, Thenmozhi AJ, Ooi L, Sachdev P, Guillemin G. Consumption of pomegranates improves synaptic function in a transgenic mice model of Alzheimer's disease. Oncotarget. 2016; Jul 28. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.10905.

 

  1. Al-Kindi NM, Al-Farsi YM, Waly MI, Al-Shafaee MS, Bakheit CS, Al-Sharbati MM, Al-Adawi S. Comparative assessment of eating behavior among children with autism to typically developing children in Oman. CJCN 2016; 4:2: 51-64.

 

  1. Al-Adawi S, Ali BH, Al-Zakwani I. Research Misconduct: The Peril of Publish or Perish. Oman Med J. 2016;31(1):5-11. doi: 10.5001/omj.2016.02.

 

  1. M. Al Alawi, H.Al Sinawi,  Perception of Stigma among Attendees of Tertiary Care Psychiatric Clinic in Oman, Int J Pub Health Safety, Oct. 2016.

 

  1. Ahlam Ali,  Hamed Al Sinawi, Mohammed Al Alawi, Gender dysphoria in an Omani female Int J Nutr Pharmacy Neurol Dis 2016;6: 97-9

 

  1. Al Alawi M, Mundher Al Maqbali, Suha Al Gailani, Al Sinawi H. “Type 2 Citrullinemia, Indian J Med. Res Pharm Sci. 2016; 3:2.

 

  1. Al-Hashar A, Al Sinawi H, Al Mahrezi A, Al-Hatrushi M. Prevalence and Covariates of Polypharmacy in Elderly Patients on Discharge from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman. Oman Med J.  2016; 31:6:421.

 

  1. Abdullah M. Al-Nabhani, Hamed Al Sinawi and Al-Salt Al Toubi , Stress and burn out among nurses at a tertiary care hospital in Oman, The Arab J of Psych. 2016; 27:2.

 

  1. Hassan Mirza, Hamed Al Sinawi , blood monitoring for patient of lithium , The online Journal of clinical Audits, 2016; 8:3.

 

  1. Azza Al Hinai, Roshe Rashid, Hamed Al Sinawi, Medical co-morbidities among dementia patients . 2016; MEJ Psych.

 

  1. Al Sinawi H, Al-Salt Al Toubi, and Abdullah M. Al-Nabhani. "Burnout, Perceived Stress and Coping Styles among Nurses at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Muscat. The Arab J of Psych 2016; 27:2: 117-126.

 

  1. Al Sherawi M, Al Alawi M, Al Sinawi H, Al Farsi K. Depressive Symptoms among Patients in a Clinic for Sickle Cell Disease in Oman: A Cross-Sectional Study. J. of Psychiatry. 2016; 27:1:59-66.

 

  1. Al-Harrasi A, Al Maqbali M, Al-Sinawi H. Surviving a suicide attempt. Oman Med J. 2016; 31:5: 378.

 

  1. Al-Huseini S, Al-Madhani A, Al-Shehhi A, Al-Sinawi H. Physical examinations of psychiatric patients who presented at the emergency department of a tertiary-care hospital in Oman. SJMMS 2016; 1:4:3.

 

  1. Mohammed Al Alawi, Hamed Al Sinawi,  Perception of Stigma among Attendees of Tertiary Care Psychiatric Clinic in Oman, Int J Pub Health Safety, 2016. 

 

Conference & Seminar Presentations

 

International

  1. Al Sinawi H, Jeddah Mental Health Conference, Jeddah, October 2016.

 

 

National

  1. Al Sinawi H, Elderly National Symposium , Rustaq, April 2016.
  2. Al Sinawi H, Izky Mental Health Conference, Nizwa University, April 2016
  3. Al Sinawi H, Communication Skills for new Residents, August 2016
  4. Al Sinawi H, First National Alzheimer’s Day Symposium, Sept. 2016 (organized/presented)

 

Thesis Supervision 

 

Student name:              Ghazi Ahmed Daradkeh

 

Qualification:                 Ph.D.

 

Title:                              Screening the Status of Nutritional, Biochemical and Behavioral Profile in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients of Oman and Qatar

 

Supervisor                         Prof. Samir Al-Adawi

 

Date of completion:       2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Student name:              Muna Shaaban Ajzoon

 

Qualification:                 Ph.D.

 

Title:                               Alcohol and Substance Use Knowledge, Attitudes, Subjective Norms, Self-Efficacy, Perceived Behavioural Control and Behavioural Intentions among Omani College Students

 

Supervisor                      Prof. Samir Al-Adawi

 

Date of completion:       Ongoing

 

 

2014

 

RESEARCH PROJECTS

1. The Objectivity of OSCE

         Project Code: MREC #948; Dates: 2014

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Marwan Al-Sharbati, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

1.  Al-Adawi S, Braidy N, Essa M, Al-Azri F, Hussain S, Al-Sibani N, Al-Khabouri J, Al-Asmi A, Al-Mashani A. Cognitive profiles in patients with multi-infarct dementia: an Omani study. Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders EXTRA 2014; 18;4 (2): 271-82.

2.  Al-Adawi S. Tomorrow's People Matters: Evidence for Action in Oman. Oman Medical Journal 2014; 29 (2): 83-5.

 

Chapters in Books 

1. Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sharbati M., Ishita Gupta. The art of Psychotherapy in Oman: practice and limitations.In: Editorial Board: Introduction to Clinical Methods in Neurological Disorders.  iConcept Press Ltd. 2014. http://www.iconceptpress.com/

 

2. Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sharbati M., Ishita Gupta. Cognitive behavioral therapy for Obsessive compulsive disorder. In: Vladimir Kalinin (Ed.). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder - The Old and the New Problems. InTech Open Access Publisher. 2014, DOI: 10.5772/57332 http://www.intechopen.com/books/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-the-old-and-the-new-problems

 

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

International

1.Al-Sharbati Z. Mood dysfunctions among Breast cancer patients Eurama Congress, Muscat, Oman 30 Oct. 2014

 

2.Al-Sharbati Z.  National conference on career Burnout, Wilayat of Sohar, Falaj Alqabael Health Centre Focusing technique and mental well-being 24 April 2014

 

 

Oral presentations

International

1.Al-Sharbati M., Bouazza A.,. Jabr N., Al-Farsi Y. The Prevalence And Associated Factors Of Internet Addiction Among Omani Adolescents. Jubilee Congress of World Association of Social Psychiatry (WASP), London, 13 - 15 November, 2014.

 

2.Al-Sharbati M., Bouazza A., Jabr N., Al-Farsi Y. Internet use among Omani adolescents. 21st World Congress of International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP), 11-15 August, 2014, Durban (South Africa).

 

3.Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sulaimani F., Ouhtit A. Clinical correlates of ADHD among Omani preschoolers: a descriptive study. International Iraqi Medical Association, 11th conference, 17-19 April, 2014, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

 

Poster presentations

International

1.Al-Sharbati M., Al-Saadoon M., Al-Farsi Y, Rizvi S., Al-Adawi S. Bullying, psychology and emotions among Omani adolescents in Muscat schools. 16th  World Congress of Psychiatry, Madrid, 14-18 September, 2014.

 

2. Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi M., Al-Sharbati Z., Ouhtit A. Intervention options of psychiatric disorders among Omani preschoolers in a university hospital: are they adequate? 21st World Congress of International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP), 11-15 August, 2014, Durban (South Africa).

 

3. Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sulaimani F. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among Omani preschoolers. 21st World Congress of International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP), 11-15 August, 2014, Durban (South Africa).

 

 

2013

RESEARCH PROJECTS 

1.  Public Knowledge of Dementia in Oman

         Project Code: MREC #375; Dates: 2013

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Dr.Hamad Al-Sinawi, Dr.Ahmed Al Harrasi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

2. Genatic basis of schizophrenia in Oman

         Project Code: MREC #760; Dates: 2013

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Dr. Hamad Al-Sinawi, Hassam Mirza,  Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

1. Al-Adawi S, Bax R, Bryant-Waugh R, Claudinod A, Haye P, Herscovicif CR, Monteleone P, Norring C, Kathleen Pike K, Pilon DJ, Reed GM, Rydelius P, Sharan P, Thiels C,Treasure J & Uher R. Revision of ICD – status update on feeding and eating disorders. Advances in Eating Disorders: Theory, Research and Practice 2013, 1, 1–10.

 

2.Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Ouhtit A., Waly M., Al-Shafaee M., Al-Farsi O., Al-Khaduri M., Al-Said M. Al-Adawi S. Awareness about autism among school teachers in Oman: a cross-sectional study. Accepted in Autism: International Journal of Research and Practice. Autism. 2013 Oct 22. [Epub ahead of print] PMID:24151129. Impact factor 1.961.

 

Chapters in Books

1. Ouhtit A., Al-Farsi Y., Gupta I., Waly M., Al-Sharbati M. The Genetics Underlying Autism. In: Patel V. B., Martin C. R., Preedy V.,  Preedy V. R. (Eds).  Comprehensive Guide to Autism. Springer 2013. http://www.springerreference.com/docs/html/chapterdbid/331258.html

 

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

International

1.M. Al-Sharbati, Y. M. Al-Farsi, M. A. al-Shafaee, M. I. Waly, O. Al-Farsi, M. M. Al-Khaduri, S. Al-Adawi, A. Ouhtit and M. F. Al-Said. Misconceptions about autism among school teachers in Oman. International Iraqi Medical Association, 9th conference, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, 28-31 Mar 2013.

National

1.Al-Adawi S. Psychosocial sequalae of road traffic injuries; For whom the bell tolls.  1st International Mental Health Conference. Al Masarra Hospital, Oman, 1-2 Dec 2013.

 

2.Al-Adawi S. Effective Communication. Communication Skills Part I Workshop for R1 Residents. Oman Medical Specialty Board,  Al-Khoudh, Oman 18, 19 and 25 Nov 2013.

 

3.Al-Adawi S. Coping with Disasters and mourning for the loss.  Presentation to the friends and families Filipino Community following Haiyan Typhoon in Philippine. SQU, 24 Nov 2013.

 

4. Al-Adawi S. Neuroscience of Mindfulness. A workshop to Sultan Qaboos University Student (SCOPE). 24 Nov  2013.

 

5.Al-Adawi S. Occupational Stress. Lecture to the Cables Industry (SAOG). Bustan Hotel, Muscat, Oman 15 Sep 2013.

 

6.Al-Adawi S. Procrastination is the thief of Time. Lecture given to the Cables Industry (SAOG). Bustan Hotel, Muscat, Oman 16 Sep 2013.

 

7. Al-Adawi S. Mental Health Research in Oman,  Al-Masarra Hospital, Ministry of Health, Sultanate of  Oman. 19 Sep 2013.

 

8.Al-Adawi S. Think.Eat.Save.  A lecture given to mark World Environment Day under the auspice of  United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). Cultural Centre, Sultan Qaboos University, 5 June 2013.

 

9.Al-Adawi S. Psychosocial Sequelae of Road Traffic Injuries: For Whom the Bell Tolls?  A presentation given to the Public Health Forum,  Khoula Hospital, Muscat,  Oman, 9 Apr 2013.

 

10.Al-Adawi S. Literature Review.  A presentation given to Muscat Governorate,  Ministry of Health, Dirsait, Muscat, Oman, 7 Jan 2013.

 

11. Al Sinawi H. Alzheimer’s and other neurocognetive disorders , Geriatric conference, Al Massara Hospital , Muscat, Oman, 6 Oct 2013.

 

12.Al Sinawi H. Profile of Geriatric Psychiatry in Oman , Oman Spesiality Nursing institute. Muscat, Oman, 14 Feb 2013.

 

13.Al Harrasi.  A multidispilinary approach to dementia care, 2nd Rehabilitation Psychiatry Conference, Al Massara Hospital, Muscat, Oman, 3 Dec 2013.

 

14.Al-Sharbati Z. Evidence-Based psychological interventions. First International Conference on Psychological Services in Oman. Muscat, Oman,  11-12 Dec 2013.

 

 

Poster Presentations

International

1. Al Sinawi H, Al Harrasi A : Profile of Patients attending Old Age Psychiatry Clinic at SQUH, the RCPsych Conference, Edinburgh, UK, 2-5 July 2013.

 

Seminar Presentations

National

1.Al Sinawi H. How to care for person with dementia, workshop for friends of the eldely association, Muscat, Oman, Oct 16, 2013.

 

 

2012

 

RESEARCH PROJECTS

1. The effect of cultural differences between mental health clinicians and minority geriatric groups on the time spent in outpatient clinics

         Project Code: MREC #601  Dates: 2012

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU

 

2.Attitude of Sultan Qaboos University Clinical Students Toward Psychiatry        

         Project Code: MREC #566   Dates: 2012

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Dr. Hamed Al-Sinawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

3. First episodes psychosis admitted to Sultan Qaboos University, Psychiatry Department:Presenting symptoms by using ICD 10 DSM-IV definitions - Imaging study of these drug-naïve psychotic patients                                     

         Project Code: MREC #574; Dates: 2012

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Dr. Ziad Zaidan, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

4. Burnout, Perceived stress and coping style among nurses working at SQUH

         Project Code: MREC #602; Dates: 2012

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Dr. Hamad Al-Sinawi, Dept. Behavioral Medicine, SQU

 

5. Relationship between Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and urinary hydroxyl proline and proline concentration among students and staff in higher learning centeres in Oman

         Project Code: MREC #638; Dates: 2012

         Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigator: Prof. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU

 

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

1. Al-Adawi  S, Al-Busaidi Z, Al-Adawi SS, Burke DT. Families Coping With Disability Due to Brain Injury in Oman: Attribution to Belief in Spirit Infestation and Ensorcellment. SAGE Open July-September 2012: 1–8 DOI: 10.1177/2158244012457400.

 

2.Al-Adawi S, Dorvlo ASS, Viernes N, Alexander PC, Al-Zakwani I. Is the Diagnostic Prototype for Anorexia Nervosa Universal? Evidence from the Middle East and Implications for ICD-11. Arab Journal of Psychiatry, 2012, 23, 42-51

 

3.Al-Sharbati M. The emergence of behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. Int J Nutr Pharmacol Neurol Dis 2012; 2: 1–2.

 

4.Al-Sharbati M, Al-Sharbati Z, Al-Lawatiya S, Al-Jahwari S. Teachers’ awareness about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Oman. Asian J Psychiatr 2012; 5:277-8.

 

5.Al Sinawi H, Al Sharbati M, Obaid Y, Viernes N. Preparing and conducting objective structured clinical examination for Oman Medical Specialty Board R1–R4 Residents. Oman Med J 2012; 27: 246–8.

 

6. Al-Sharbati Z, Hallas C, Al-Zadjali H, Al-Sharbati M. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients attending psychotherapy in a tertiary care hospital in Oman. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2012; 12:25–32.

 

7. Al-Sinawi H., Al-Sharbati M., Obaid Y, Viernes N. Preparing and conducting Objective Structured Clinical Examination for Oman Medical Specialty Board R1-R4 Residents. Oman Medical Journal. 2012; 27(3): 246–248. Impact factor 0.386.

 

 Chapters in Books 

1. Essa MM, Guillemin GJ, Al-Adawi S, Al-Asmi A, Vaishnav R,  Ramachandiran N, Memon MA. Antiamyloidogenic Effect of Dates Grown in Oman with Reference to Their Possible Protection against Alzheimer’s Disease. In, A. Manickavasagan; M. Mohamed Essa (Editors), Dates: Production, Processing, Food, and Medicinal Values. New York. CRC Press, pp. 397-403, 2012.

 

CONFERENCE & SEMINAR PRESENTATIONS

National

1.Al-Sharbati M., Al-Sharbati Z. Autism Spectrum Disorder. A two-hour workshop presented for two days, The 8th International Scientific Conference for Medical Students in the GCC countries, 28th Jan. – 1st Feb. 2012, Muscat (Oman).

 

2. Al-Sharbati M. Management of Autism. The International Conference on Consanguinity: Towards the Discovery of Genes Predisposing to and Protecting from Disease, Muscat (Oman), 17-19 March, 2012.

 

3. Al-Sharbati M. The profile of Autistic Spectrum Disorder among Preschoolers in Oman. The 1st International Conference on Autism: Accepting Difference. Muscat (Oman), 20-21 March. 2012.

 

4.Al-Sharbati M. Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The Autism Day, SQU, Muscat (Oman), April 2, 2012.

 

5.Al-Sharbati M. Recent Advances in Autism “Autism Awareness Month”. Wali Bawsher, Muscat (Oman), 16th April 2012.

 

6.Al-Sharbati M. et al. Accepting Difference: Autism in Oman. Presentation in SCRAPS, College of Medicine and health Sciences, S.Q.U., April 18, 2012.

 

Poster Presentations

International

1. M. Al-Sharbati, Y. M. Al Farsi, Z.M. Al-Sharbati, A. Ouhtit, M. I. Waly, M. M. Al-Khaduri, M. Al-Shafee, F. Al-Sulaimani and S. Al-Adawi. Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Among Omani Children below 6 Years: A Five – Year Retrospective Descriptive Study. International Meeting for Autism Research (IMFAR), May 17-19, 2012, Toronto (Canada).

 

2. Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sulaimani F., Ouhtit A. Profile of psychiatric disorders among preschool children in a university hospital in Oman. Arab Federation of Psychiatrists, 12th Pan Arab Psychiatric Conference 29th Nov. - 1st Dec. 2012, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

 

3. Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Sulaimani F., Ouhtit A. Prevalence estimates of psychiatric disorders among preschool children in a university hospital in Oman. Arab Federation of Psychiatrists, 12th Pan Arab Psychiatric Conference 29th Nov. - 1st Dec. 2012, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

 

4. Al-Sharbati Z., Hallas C, Furrukh M, Al-Moundhri M, Burney I. The prevalence rates of depression and anxiety among cancer patients in a tertiary care hospital in the Sultanate of Oman, UAE Cancer Congress 2012. 

 

 

2011

RESEARCH PROJECTS

 

1. Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Fruits Grown in Oman on Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s Dementia, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Traumatic Brain Injury

         Project Code: RC/AGR/FOOD/11/01   Dates: May 2011

         Value:  OR 201,000  Project Funder: The Research Council Oman

         Investigators: Dr. Mohamed Essa, Dept. Food Science & Human Nutrition, SQU; Dr. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU, Dr Abdullah Al-Asmi;  Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Dr Hamed Al-Sinawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQUH;Dr Ragini Vaishnav, Dept. of Pharmacology, SQU;Ms. Roopa Koshy, Dept. Food Science & Human Nutrition, SQU

 

2. Autism in Oman:Epidemiology and Etiology

         Project Code: SR/MED/FMCO/11/01   Dates:2011–2014

         Value: OR 90,000  Project Funder: H.M. Sultan Qaboos Strategic Grant

         Investigators: Dr. Yahya Al-Farsi, Dept. Family Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine & Health Sciences SQU; Dr. Marwan Al Sharbati, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

3.Internet Addiction in a sample of Secondary and University Omani Students

         Project Code: RC/ART/INFO/11/01   Dates: 2011–2014

         Value: OR 82,000  Project Funder: The Research Council

         Investigators: Prof. Abdelmajid Bouazza, Dept. Information Studies, College of Arts, SQU; Dr. Marwan Al Sharbati, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

4. A Study of the Nutritional and Metabolic Factors contributing to the Occurrence of Autistic Spectrum Disorder among Children in the Sultanate of Oman

         Project Code: IG/AGR/FOOD/10/01  Dates: January 2010–2013

         Value: Unfunded;   Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University

         Investigators: Dr. Mostafa Waly, Dept. Food Science and Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, SQU; Dr. Marwan Al Sharbati, Dept. of Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

 

 

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

1. Al-Sharbati MM, Zaidan ZA, Dorvlo AS, Al-Adawi S. Characteristics of ADHD Disorder Among Omani Schoolchildren Using DSM-IV: Descriptive Study. J Atten Disord. 2011; 15(2): 139-146.

2. Al-Sharbati M, Zaidan ZA, Dorvlo AS, Al-Adawi S. Characteristics of ADHD Disorder among Omani Schoolchildren Using DSM-IV: Descriptive Study. Journal of Attention Disorders. 2011. 15 (2), 139-146. Impact factor 2.955.

 

Chapters in Books

1. Al-Adawi S, Jaju SS, Al-Zakwani I, Dorvlo, ASS.  Culture to Culture Fatphobia and somatization. In: V. R. Preedy, R. R. Watson, & C. R. Martin (Eds.), International  Handbook of Behavior, Diet, and Nutrition. New York: Springer, pp. 1457-1473, 2011.

2. Al-Sinawi H, Al-Adawi S. Sultanate of Oman. In, Hamid Ghodse (editor), International Perspectives on Mental Health. London: Royal College of Psychiatry  Publications, pp.167-172,  2011

 

CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

International

1. Al-Adawi, S Classification of Mental and Behavioral Disorders in Arab Countries. American University of Beirut Medical Center. Department of Psychiatry, June 21-21, 2011, Beirut Lebanon.

2.Al-Adawi, S. Journal of Medical Sciences - 9th October,2010. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award For Medical Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

3. Al-Sharbati M. and Al-Attabi Khadeeja. Atomoxetine treatment of ADHD cases in SQUH: an open trial study. IIMA 6th conference, 26-30 March, 2011, Al- Sharja, UAE.

 

National

1. Al-Adawi, S. Personality Types in Occupational Setting For Health And Wealth AL-Dakhliyaha Laboratory Open Day, March 3, 2011, Nizwa University, Oman.

 

Poster and oral presentations

1. Al-Sharbati M., and Ali Al-Jabri. The experience of the committee dealing with students under probation in the College of Medicine at SQU. The 6th Congress of the Asian Medical Education Association, 26-30 March, 2011, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

2. Al-Sharbati M. and Al-Attabi Khadeeja. Atomoxetine treatment of ADHD cases in SQUH: an open trial study. IIMA 6th conference, 26-30 March, 2011, Al- Sharja, UAE.

3.  Al-Sharbati M., Al-Farsi Y., Ouhtit A., Waly M., Al-Shafaee M., Al-Farsi O., Al-Khaduri M., Al-Said M. Al-Adawi S. Awareness about autism among school teachers in Oman: a cross-sectional study. Accepted in Autism: International Journal of Research and Practice. Autism. 2013 Oct 22. [Epub ahead of print] PMID:24151129. Impact factor 1.961.

4. Al-Sharbati M. The emergence of behavioral disorders in children and adolescents. International Journal of Nutrition, pharmacology, neurological diseases. 2012, 2 (1): 1-2.

5. Al-Sinawi H., Al-Sharbati M., Obaid Y, Viernes N. Preparing and conducting Objective Structured Clinical Examination for Oman Medical Specialty Board R1-R4 Residents. Oman Medical Journal. 2012; 27(3): 246–248. Impact factor 0.386.

6. Al-Sharbati M., Al-Sharbati Z., Al-Lawatiya S. & Al-Jahwary S. Teachers’ awareness about ADHD in Oman. Asian Journal of Psychiatry. 2012; 5(3):277-8. doi:10.1016/j.ajp.2012.01.005. Impact factor 0.375.

7. Al-Sharbati Z., Hallas C., Al-Zadjali H., Al-Sharbati M. Sociodemographic and Clinical Characteristics of Patients attending Psychotherapy in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman. Sultan Qaboos University Medical journal. 2012 February; 12(1): 25–32. Impact factor 0.684.

8. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Adawi S, Petrini K, Bait Amer A, Al-Suleimani A, Al-Lawatiya S, Zaidan Z, Al-Adawi S, Al-Hussaini A. Two-phase survey to determine social anxiety and gender differences in Omani adolescents. Asia-Pacific Psychiatry. 2012, 4: 131–139. Impact factor 0.47.

9. Al-Sharbati M, Zaidan ZA, Dorvlo AS, Al-Adawi S. Characteristics of ADHD Disorder among Omani Schoolchildren Using DSM-IV: Descriptive Study. Journal of Attention Disorders. 2011. 15 (2), 139-146. Impact factor 2.955.

 

2009-2010


RESEARCH PROJECTS

Expatriate Doctors working in the Omani Health Care Sectors and Omanization
Project Code: MREC # 318; Dates:2009
Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

Prevalence of Anxiety & Depression among Patients with epilepsy at a tertiary care hospital in Oman
Project Code: MREC # 329; Dates:2009
Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

Determining the Culturally Specific Symptom Constellation of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Omani
Project Code: MREC # 333; Dates:2009
Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al Adawi, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

The Ethics of Veracity in Health Care
Project Code: MREC # 350; Dates:2010
Value: Unfunded; Project Approval: Sultan Qaboos University
Investigators: Dr. Ahmed Amer, Dept. Behavioural Medicine, SQU.
 



RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

Journal Publications 
1. Al-Sharbati MM, Zaidan ZA, Dorvlo AS, Al-Adawi S. Characteristics of ADHD disorder among omani schoolchildren
using DSM-IV: Descriptive study. J Atten Disord (Epub ahead of print) 13 Jan 2010.
2. Al Farsi YM, Al-Sharbati MM, Al-Farsi OA, Al-Shafaee MS, Brooks DR, Waly MI. Brief report: Prevalence of autistic
spectrum disorders in the Sultanate of Oman. J Autism Dev Disord 2010; (Epub ahead of print) 31 Aug 2010.
3. Al-Adawi S, Al-Zakwani I, Obeid YA, Zaidan ZA. Neurocognitive functioning in women presenting with undifferen-tiated somatoform disorders in Oman. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2010; 64:555–64.
4. El Shafie K, Al-Shaqsi A, Al-Mahrouqi B, Al-Lawati H, Ganguly SS, Al-Adawi S, Al-Shafaee M. The diagnostic yield of
thyroid function tests and their cost-effectiveness in the Student Clinic at Sultan Qaboos University: Retrospective
chart review. SQU Med J 2010; 10:215–20.
5. Sadowsky C, Whiting H, Pai S, Recio A, Becker D, Houdayer T, Al-Adawi S. Prevalence and risk factors for osteoporosis
in individuals with paralysis. J Clin Densitom 2009; 12:388–9.
6. Al-Adawi S, Ali BH. West is West, East is East: The divide in science. Saudi Med J 2010; 31:1093–4.
7. Hallas CN, Burke JL, White DG, Connelly DT. A prospective one year study of changes in neuropsychological function following implantable cardioverter defibrillator surgery. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2010; 3:170–7.
8. Hallas CN, Burke JL, White DG, Connelly DT. Pre-ICD illness beliefs affect post-implant perceptions of control and patient-quality of life. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2010; 33:256–65.
9. Hallas CN, Wray J, Andreou P, Banner NR. Depression and perceptions of heart failure predict the quality of life of people with advanced heart failure. J Heart Lung Transplant 2010; doi:10.1016/j.hrtlng. 2009.12.008.
10. Hallas CN, Howard C, Wray J, Carby M. Understanding panic disorder in chronic respiratory disease. Br J Nurs 2009; 18:527–9.
11. Hallas CN, Wray J, Banner NR. A qualitative study of the psychological experience of patients during and after mechanical cardiac support. JCardiovasc Nurs 2009; 24:31–9.
12. Howard C, Hallas CN, Wray J, Carby M. The relationship between illness perceptions, anxiety and panic in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Behav Res Ther 2009; 47:71–6.
13. Sharbati M, Al-Zaidi R, Al-Naamani R, Al-Futaisi A, Jain R. A rare presentation of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. SQU Med J 2010; 10:84–8.

Books Chapters 
1. Hallas CN. What are the roles of a health psychologist in clinical practice? Defining knowledge, skills and competencies. In: Forshaw M, Sheffield D, Eds. Health Psychology in Action. London: Wiley-Blackwell, 2010.



CONFERENCE & SEMINAR PRESENTATIONS


Conference Presentations
International


1. Al-Sharbati M. The ADHD preschoolers: when to treat by psycho-pharmacotherapy, and how? Medical Home, An
Innovative Approach to ADHD. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 7–11 November 2009.
2. Al-Farsi Y, Wali M, Al-Shafie M, Al-Sharbati M. The prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting among autistic children in Oman. IMFAR Meeting. Pennsylvania,USA, 20–22 May 2010.
3. Wali M, Al-Farsi Y, Al-Shafie M, Al-Sharbati M. Measurement of reduced, oxidized and total glutathion levels in the
sera of autistic children in Oman. IMFAR Meeting. Pennsylvania, USA, 20–22 May 2010.
4. Al-Sharbati M. Studies concerning preschoolers suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: When to
treat and how? IIMA 5th Conference. Sharjah, UAE, 1–3 April 2010.
5. Al-Sharbati M. Autism and other developmental disorders in Oman. The 3rd Conference of Prevention, Diagnosis and
Treatment of Developmental Delays and Neonatal Screening in Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Doha, Qatar,
27–29 April 2010.

National
1. Al-Sharbati M. Communication skills. OMSB communication skills workshop. Muscat, Oman, 6–7 October 2009.
2. Al-Adawi S. Pre-occupation with body image and weight-loss behavior in cross-cultural samples. 17th International Child Health Conference – Chronic Childhood Illnesses. Sultan Qaboos University, 13–15 October 2009.
3. Al-Adawi S. Biopsychosocial approach for the management of obesity. Workshop on Food, Nutrition in Health and Disease. College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. 10 May 2010
4. Al-Adawi S. Coping with chronic illness. Collaborative Nursing Conference on Deliberating Quality, Serving Communities, Nurses Leading Chronic Care. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 28 April 2010.

Poster Presentations
International
1. Al-Adawi S, Al-Azri F, Hussain S, Dorvlo ASS. Neurocognitive, affective and vegetative functioning in patient presenting with vascular dementia in Oman. Sixth International Congress on Vascular Dementia. Barcelona, Spain,
19–22 November 2009.
National
1. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Adawi S, Al-Lawati S, Al-Suleimani A, Obeid Y, Al-Hussaini A, Mirza H, Zaidan Z, Petrini K. Twophase survey of social anxiety disorder in Omani adolescents reveals gender differences. University Day. Sultan
Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.
2. Obeid Y, Viernes N, ElZien I, Al-Hussini A, Zaidan Z, Martin, R, Guenedi A, Al-Adawi S. Peer review in the management of inpatients with depression in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. University Day. Sultan Qaboos University,
Oman, Muscat, 2 May 2010.
3. Mirza H, Al-Adawi S, Al-Asmi A, Al-Azri F, Hussain S, Al-Sharbati M, Guenedi AA, Al-Hussaini A, Obeid YA. Jinn in
the brain: Evaluation of regional cerebral blood flow in a patient with cacodemonomania of dissociative type. University Day. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.
4. Obeid Y, Al-Hussini, A, Martin R, Al-Sharbati, M, Zaidan Z, Al-Guenedi A, Al-Adawi S. Clinical audit on the use of depot antipsychotics in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. University Day. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman,
2 May 2010.
5. Obeid Y, Al-Guenedi A, Al-Hussini A, Hussain S, Al-Azri F, Al-Adawi, S. Supposed ‘Spirit possession’ may be associated with altered brain states: Case report from Oman. University Day. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2
May 2010.
6. Al-Saadoon M, Al-Sharbati M, Rizvi S, et al. Bullying among children in elementary schools in Muscat region. Univer-sity Day. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.
7. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Sharbati Z, Al-Lawatiya S, Al-Jahwari S. Teachers’ awareness about ADHD in Oman. University
Day. Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.
8. Al-Farsi Y, Al-Sharbati M, Wali M, Al-Shafee M. Prevalence of autistic spectrum disorder in Oman. University Day.
Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.
9. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Attabi K. Atomoxetine in the treatment of ADHD in SQUH. University Day. Sultan Qaboos Univerisity, Muscat, Oman, 2 May 2010.

THESIS SUPERVISION 
Omar Al-Farsi
Qualification: M.Sc.
Title: The prevalence of Autistic Spectrum Disorders in Oman.
Supervisor: Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati
Date of completion: August 2010
Maha Al-Khalili
Qualification: M.Sc.
Title: Nutritional Factors in Autism
Supervisor: Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati
Date of completion: On going
Samia Al-Fahdi
Qualification: M.Sc.
Title: The clinical correlate of autism in Oman
Supervisor Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati
Date of completion: On going

 


2007 - 2009


 RESEARCH PROJECTS
The attitudes of adolescents and young adults in Omani second and third-cycle students to mobile phones
Project Code: CR/SCI/Math/08/01
Dates: 2006-2009
Value: OR 12,700
Project Funder: Sultan Qaboos University
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al-Adawi, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU;
Professor Atsu Dorvlo, Department of Mathematic and Statistics, SQU;
Dr. Charles Asante, Language Centre, SQU.

A Survey of Oman’s ‘Tomorrow doctors’ interests in Psychiatry at Sultan Qaboos University
Project Code: MREC #272
Dates: 2007-2008
Value: Unfunded
Investigator: Dr. Samir Al-Adawi, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

Prevalence of Anxiety & Depression among Patients with Epilepsy at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Oman
Project Code: MREC #278
Dates: 2008-2009
Value: Unfunded
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al-Adawi, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU; Dr.
Abdullah Al-Asmi, Department of Medicine, SQU.

Determining the Culturally Specific Symptom Constellation of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder among Omanis
Project Code: MREC #282
Dates: 2008-2009
Value: Unfunded
Investigators: Dr. Samir Al-Adawi, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU;Dr.
Liyam Eloul, Fulbright Scholar, Standford University, USA & SQU

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOkS
Journal Publications
1. Al-Adawi S, Al-Naamani A, Dorvlo ASS, Bhaya C, Martin RG, Al-Hussaini, A Al-Guenedi A. Withering before the Sowing? A Survey of Oman’s ‘Tomorrow’s Doctors’ Interest in Psychiatry. Education for Health 2008; 21:117.
2. Al-Sinawi H, Al-Adawi S, Al-Guenedi A. Ramadan Fasting Triggering Koro-like Symptoms during Acute Alcohol Withdrawal: A Case Report from Oman. Transcult Psych 2008; 45:695-704.
3. Al-Shafaee MA, Al-Shukaili S, Rizvi SGA, Al-Farsi Y, Khan MA, Ganguly SS, Afifi, M, Al-Adawi S. Knowledge and perceptions of diabetes in a semi-urban Omani population. BMC Public Health 2008, 8:249 doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-8-249.
4. Al-Mandhari A, Al-Adawi S, Al-Zakwani I, Al-Shafaee M, Eloul L. Impact of Geographical Proximity on Health Care Seeking behavior in Northern Oman. SQU Med J 2008; 8:310-18.
5. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Adawi S, Ganguly S, Al-Lawatiya S, Al-Mshefri F. Hyperactivity in a Sample of Omani Schoolboys. J Atten Disord 2008; 12:264-9.
6. Kayano M, Yoshiuchi K, Al-Adawi S, Viernes N, Dorvlo AS, Kumano H, Kuboki T, Akabayashi A. Eating attitudes and body dissatisfaction in adolescents: Cross-cultural study. Psych and Clin Neurosci 2008; 62:17-25.
7. Jain NB, Al-Adawi S, Dorvlo AS, Burke DT. Association between body mass index and functional independence measure in patients with deconditioning. Am J of Phy Med & Rehab 2008; 87:21-25.
8. Seif Eldin A, Habib D, Noufal A, Farrag S, Bazaid K, Al-Sharbati M, Badr H, Moussa S, Essali A, Gaddour N. Use of M-CHAT for a multinational screening of young children with autism in the Arab countries. Int Rev
Psych 2008; 20:281-9.
9. Al-Adawi S,Al-Naamani A, Dorvlo A, Lad SD, Al-Maashani A, Sharma RR, Gorman D. Open methylphenidate trial among brain injured population in Oman with acute vs. chronic working memory impairment. Brain Injury 2008; 22:144.
10. Al-Naamani A, Al-Adawi S, Dorvlo A, Lad SD, Al-Maashani A, Sharma RR, Gorman D. Fatigue and affective functioning in cross-cultural survivors of traumatic brain Injury. Brain Injury 2008; 22:174-5.
11. Al-Adawi S, Dorvlo Al-Naamani A, Lad SD, Al-Maashani A, Sharma RR, Gorman D. Disorder of selfneglect in brain injured population in Oman: incidence, neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. Brain Injury 2008; 22:24-2
 


Conference & SEMINAR PRESENTATIONS


CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS
International
1. Al-Adawi S. Disorder of self-neglect in brain injured population in Oman: incidence, neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. The Seventh World Congress on Brain injury of the International Brain Injury Association in conjunction with the Portuguese Society of Physical Rehabilitation Medicine. Lisbon, Portugal, 10 April 2008.
2. Al-Sharbati et al. Hyperactivity in a sample of Omani schoolboys. 3rd World Conference of the International Iraqi Medical Association-online. Sharjah, UAE, 20-22 March 2008.
3. Al-Sharbati M. ADHD in the Arab World. The future of ADHD in the Arab World. Manama, Bahrain, 27 March 2008.
4. Al-Sharbati M. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in Oman. Pan Arab Congress. Cairo, Egypt, 18-20 June 2008.

 


2005 - 2007


Research Projects 

Externally Funded Research Projects 

Genetic study of Non Syndromic Mental Retardation
Project Code: MREC #217
Dates: Started 21/05/2005
Funding Body: Harvard Medical School

Investigators: Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU; Prof. Christopher Walsh, Beth Israel Hospital & Walsh Laboratory, Boston, USA; Dr. Ellen Grant,
Department of Neuroradiology, Massachusetts, Massachusetts General Hospital,
USA; Dr. Mehmet Simsek, Department of Biochemistry, SQU.

Summary: The purpose of this research study is to identify genes responsible for cognitive
disorders, epilepsy and disorders of human cognition (EDHC), including mental retardation and autism. We use the term EDHC to refer to a number of distinct genetic conditions, which present in similar ways, and which our present diagnostic technology does not always allow us to distinguish from one another. These may include, but are not limited to, mental retardation, autism and autistic spectrum disorders as well as structural brain anomalies including lissencephaly (smooth brain), schizencephaly (split brain), agenesis of the corpus callosum (absence of a mid-line structure of the brain), and other related conditions. By comparing the version of certain genes in individuals with EDHC to other copies of the gene found in the general population, it may be possible to understand the bases for certain forms of EDHC. Discovering genes that cause EDHC may ultimately lead to improvements in diagnosis and treatment. Identifying the differences in these genes represents the first step towards understanding the basis for the EDHC. This information may also be used to help to develop new methods for the diagnosis of EDHC, or for the treatment of EDHC.


Other research Projects
Regional Pilot Study for Screening and Early Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorders among Toddlers in the Arab Countries
Start Date: 2007
Value: Unfunded

Investigators: Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU; Prof. Amira S
Eldin, University of Alexandria, Egypt; Prof. Leventhal Bennett, Institute of Juvenile
Research, University of Illinois, USA.

Summary: This pilot study includes many Arab countries and is organised by the organisation
of Eastern Mediterranean Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions
(EMCAPAP). The objective is to detect the autistic children at the start of the disorder in order to initiate the necessary treatment procedures at an earlier age. The sample consisted of 10 children suffering from autistic disorders and 10 normal children, matched for age and sex as controls, from the seven countries participating in the Project. The cases were collected from the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the Omani Association for Mentally Handicapped Children, while the controls were selected from schools. A translated checklist for autism was completed. Another socio-demographic data sheet was used also for each case and control child.
The results of the project were presented at the American Academy for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Congress, in October 2007, in Boston, USA.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Atomoxetine
Dates: 2005-2008
Value: Unfunded

Investigator: Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU.

Summary: A descriptive study of ADHD cases treated by Atomoxetine in the SQU Hospital. A
sample of children and adolescents suffering from ADHD, and treated by Atomoxetine, has been studied and classified according to sex, age, type of ADHD, comorbidity and other variables. The encountered side effects and success of the treatment
were described

Exploring Demand for Health Research from Policy Makers
Dates: 2006-2009
Value: Unfunded
Investigators: Dr. Harith Al-Ghassany, Department of Behavioural Medicine, SQU; World Health
Organisation, Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO); Global Forum for Health Research, Geneva; Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA.

Summary: The overall objective of this project is to understand the perspectives and attitudes
of policy makers towards the use and impact of research in the performance of the
health sector in low and middle-income countries. This is a cross-sectional, multicountry study (Argentina, Malawi, Singapore, Egypt, Iran and Oman) involving a team of investigators with central coordination. Dr. Harith Al-Ghassany is the principal investigator for Oman. The data collection phase of the project was successfully completed. Multiple publications are now in the pipeline.



ProjeCts leD By otHer DePArtments witH Co-investigAtors in tHis DePArtment


Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Oman (Biochemistry)
Co-Investigators: Dr. Samir Al-Adawi, Dr. Marwan Al-Sharbati



Research Publications and Books


Journal Publications


1. Zaidan ZAJ, Jaddou H, Al-Ahmad AK. Psychiatric Morbidity in Primary Healthcare setting in Irbid, Jordan:
Prevalence, Recognition and Management. Arab J Psych 2006; 17:1-17.
2. Al-Adawi S, Dorvlo AS, Al-Naamani A, Glenn MB, Karamouz N, Chae H, Zaidan ZA, Burke DT. The ineffectiveness of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for diagnosis in an Omani traumatic brain injured population. Brain Inj 2007; 21:385-93.
3. Zaidan ZAJ, Dorvlo ASS, Viernes N, Al-Suleimani A, Al-Adawi S. Hazardous and harmful alcohol consumption
among non-psychotic psychiatric clinic attendees in Oman. Int J Ment Health Addict 2007; 5:3-15.
4. Viernes N, Zaidan ZAJ, Dorvlo ASS, Kayano M, Yoishiuchi K, Kumano H, Kuboki T, Al-Adawi S. Tendency toward deliberate food restriction, fear of fatness and somatic attribution in cross-cultural samples. Eat Behav
2007; 8:407-417.
5. Al-Sinawi H,Al-Adawi S. Psychiatry in the Sultanate of Oman. Int Psych 2006; 3:14-16.
6. Simsek M, Al-Sharbati M,Al-Adawi S, Lawatia K. The VNTR Polymorphism in the Human Dopamine Trans-porter Gene: Improved Detection and Absence of Association of VNTR Alleles with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Genet Test 2006; 10:31-34.
7. Al-Jabri AA, Dorvlo ASS, Al-Rahbi S, Al-Abri J, Al-Adawi S. Knowledge of tuberculosis among medical professionals and university students in Oman. East Mediterr Health J 2006; 12:509-521.

Books & Book Chapters 
1. Al-Hinai SS, Al-Saidy O, Dorvlo ASS, Al-Riyami BMS, Bhargava K, Northway MG, Al-Sharbati M,Al-Hussaini
A, Al-Adawi S. Culture and Prevalence of Social Phobia in a College Population in Oman. In: Landow MV
Ed. College students: Mental health and coping strategies. New York: Hauppauge, Nova Science Publishers,
2006. p. 115-132.
2. Al-Sharbati M, Al-Jabri AA. Exam Pressure, Emotional Disorders and on Probation Medical Students. In: Landow, MV Ed. Stress and Mental Health of College Students. New York: Hauppauge, Nova Science Publishers,
2006. p. 63-91.
3. Al-Sharbati M. Behavioural Disorders. In: Albrecht G. Ed. Encyclopedia of Disability. California: SAGE Publications Inc, 2006 pp. 161-162.

 

Conference and Seminar Presentations


Conference Presentations  


International
1. Dorvlo A, Al-Adawi S, Bakheit C. An Assessment of the Impact of Birth Spacing Programs in Oman. Canadian
Population Society Annual Meeting, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada, 30 May-2 June, 2007


Local
1. Al-Adawi S. The role of culture in the perception and expression of stress and distress: experience from Oman.
First Regional Conference on Occupational Health, Al-Bustan Palace Hotel, Muscat, Oman, 11-13 December,
2006.
ConferenCe Posters
1. Zaidan ZAJ. Psychiatry in Oman. International Iraqi Medical Association Conference, Sharjah, UAE, April 10-
14 2006.
2. Zaidan ZAJ. Drug dosage differences. Drug Treatment, Singapore, 25-28 November 2006.
3. Zaidan ZAJ. PTSD effect of war on Iraq. International Iraqi Medical Association Conference, Sharjah, UAE, 14-
16 April 2007

Clinical and Diagnostic Services


On the hospital side, the combination of a rich referral base at the clinic and an innovative service delivery model has created a strong trajectory of growth for the Department of Behavioural Medicine. The department is still the only one in the country providing for specialist tertiary referrals in a General Hospital. It has a multidisciplinary team approach designed to optimally treat patients, and train junior doctors and medical students. The department has a support staff of psychologists, nurses, social workers and other clinicians. The department takes care to provide culturally sensitive therapeutic interventions.


A wide range of assessments and treatments using various conceptual models including neuropsychiatry, psychotherapy and behaviour therapy are offered. It also offers comprehensive liaison psychiatry, behavioural medicine as well as psychosocial intervention under the umbrella of social work. 


The department offers unique clinical and diagnostic services. The assessments provided by neuropsychology employs specialised testing procedures and a nomothetic framework that strives to integrate medical, neurological, and behavioural data with neuropsychological test findings to answer any of a number of referral questions. Referrals for our services typically consist of, but are not limited to, questions concerning (a) differential diagnoses between psychogenic and neurogenic syndromes (e.g. depression versus dementia), (b) delineation of spared and impaired cognitive functions secondary to central nervous system dysfunction, (c) establishment of behavioural baseline measures to monitor recovery or progression of central nervous system dysfunction (d) comparison of pre- and post-pharmacological, surgical, and behavioural interventions (e) assessment of cognitive/behavioural functions for the formulation of rehabilitation, management strategies, and/or educational or employment placement and (f) evaluation of neurocognitive status for the purpose of disability, compensation, and liability determinations in forensic cases. 

Weekly ward rounds are conducted by each clinical team to discuss our inpatients, with a multidisciplinary approach.


Continuing professional development and regular Grand Rounds every Saturday afternoon, help management of difficult cases.

Contact us

Department of Behavioral Medicine

College of Medicine & Health Science

Sultan Qaboos University

 

PO Box: 35, PC 123, Al Khod, Muscat Sultanate of Oman

                Behavioral Medicine Department, Sultan Qaboos University

 

Phone:  +968 24143443 or +968 24141150 (College)

              +968 24144402 (Hospital)

 

Email:    khazina@squ.edu.om (College)

              j.manibo@squ.edu.om (Hospital)