Saleh Abualhaj

Saleh Abualhaj


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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8 January 2026 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SASaleh Abualhaj
Saleh Abualhaj
MAMosleh Abu_alhaj
Mosleh Abu_alhaj
LALina Alshadfan
Lina Alshadfan
YSYasmin Safi
Yasmin Safi
MMMu'taz Massad
Mu'taz Massad
MDMohd said Dawod
Mohd said Dawod
Background: Achieving breast symmetry is an important aesthetic goal following reconstruction post-mastectomy; however, little is known about women’s awareness, attitudes, and barriers regarding Contralateral Breast Symmetry Procedures (CBSP) in Jordan. Objectives: To assess awareness, perceptions, and barriers toward contralateral breast symmetry procedures among breast cancer survivors who underwent reconstruction at King Hussein Cancer Center. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to Oct 2025 at KHCC, among 314 women diagnosed with breast cancer who had post-breast reconstruction. Data were collected using a structured Arabic questionnaire, which was developed based on existing literature, validated by an expert panel, and piloted on 10 women for clarity and reliability. The final tool demonstrated acceptable internal-consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.712). The questionnaire captured sociodemographic and clinical data and detailed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers related to CBSP. Descriptive statistics summarized the data. Results: Participants’ mean age was 45.8 years; the majority were married (83.8%) and held university degrees (65.6%). Most reconstructions used silicone implants (94.6%). Only 6.4% had undergone CBSP, primarily delayed breast augmentation or mastopexy, with 75% reporting satisfaction. Awareness of CBSP was limited (37.9%), and less than one-third had discussed CBSP options with their surgeon or knew about insurance coverage. While 82.5% valued symmetry for body image, 31.5% viewed it as unnecessary after cancer recovery. Main barriers included satisfaction with current appearance (48.1%), fear of additional surgery (32.2%), financial constraints (37.3%), and lack of physician counseling (27.1%). Trust in medical team recommendations was high (89.2%). Conclusions: Contralateral breast symmetry procedures are under-recognized and infrequently pursued, primarily due to limited awareness, financial concerns, and insufficient counseling. Focused education and enhanced surgeon–patient communication are essential to support women’s aesthetic and psychological needs after reconstruction in Jordan.

30 June 2026 in BMC Medical Education
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
SASaleh Abualhaj
Saleh Abualhaj
LALina Alshadfan
Lina Alshadfan
LALama M. Al-Mehaisen
Lama M. Al-Mehaisen
YSYasmin Safi
Yasmin Safi
FAFadi Alawneh
Fadi Alawneh
MAMahmoud Al-Masri
Mahmoud Al-Masri
Breast reconstruction (BR) following mastectomy is one component of comprehensive breast cancer care; however, its educational emphasis, accessibility, and cultural context vary across health systems, particularly in middle-income countries. Understanding how future physicians perceive BR within the local epidemiologic and health-system landscape is necessary to guide proportionate and culturally responsive medical education. This study assessed knowledge, awareness, perceptions, and attitudes toward BR among Jordanian medical students, with the aim of identifying educational gaps and barriers to practice. A national cross-sectional study was conducted among clinical-year medical students (years 4-6) from six Jordanian universities using a validated, self-administered questionnaire. A validated, self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically via institutional mailing lists and verified student communication platforms. The survey was developed following expert review and piloting for clarity and cultural appropriateness. Data were analyzed descriptively to evaluate students' educational exposure, knowledge, confidence, and perceptions regarding BR. Of 391 respondents, 69.6% were female and all universities were represented. While 79% reported prior teaching on breast cancer, only 21% attended lectures specifically on BR, and 20.2% observed a procedure. Most rated their knowledge as basic (58.8%), with only 1.3% reporting advanced knowledge. Confidence in counseling patients was limited, with 7.2% feeling very confident. Awareness of key aspects varied: 42.2% recognized both immediate and delayed reconstruction, 55% knew both implant and autologous options, and 57.3% were unsure about insurance coverage. Reported barriers included financial cost (85.2%), lack of awareness (68.3%), and cultural or religious sensitivity (> 60%). Despite this, 88.7% agreed BR improves quality of life, and 75.7% supported greater curricular emphasis, with 68.3% seeking additional training. Jordanian medical students demonstrate supportive attitudes toward BR but significant educational and systemic gaps remain. Strengthening BR education and addressing cultural and financial barriers are essential to empower future physicians in promoting patient-centered cancer care.