Knowledge and awareness about gallbladder stones and their complications among the general population in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Gallbladder stone disease is a common and frequently encountered biliary disorder. Most patients with gallstones are asymptomatic and do not require medical management. However, some patients experience biliary colic pain as a result of acute or chronic inflammation. Gallbladder stones can lead to a variety of problems and might be ended by a lifethreatening case. To assess knowledge and awareness level about gallbladder stones and their complications among Saudi general population. Methodology:This is an observative cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. The simple size was calculated using Raosoft with confidence level of 95% and margin error of 5%. This survey information was collected by medical students using an online questionnaire containing 25 questions divided into four parts. Data were converted to the Excel and afterwards analyzed with the (SPSS) software. Results: The study had 1710 respondents, including females accounting for 63.6% and males accounting for 36.4%. 53.2% of participants were amongst 20-30 years old. 44.9% of participants had a family history of gallstones (15.7% were mothers, 8.5% were fathers and 9.3% were sisters).Only 5.6% of participants had high knowledge score, 61.8% had average knowledge score and 32.6% had poor knowledge score of gall bladder stones. Conclusion:The level of awareness of Saudi public citizenry's gallbladderstones was poor, among the previously reported Figures in Saudi Arabia and other nationwide studies. Knowledge of gallbladder stones was significantcorrelated with participant ages, sex and education levels.