Urolithiasis Symptoms and Risk Factors Among the General Population of Alahsa, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the awareness and attitudes about urolithiasis among the general population of Alahsa, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2022 in Alahsa, Saudi Arabia, using a validated questionnaire that was distributed to the general population. Inclusion criteria include male and female citizens of Saudi Arabia who were living in Alahsa, older than 18 years old, and willing to participate in the study. Exclusion criteria include non-Saudi citizens or Saudi citizens who did not live in Alahsa. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics. Result: The results showed there were 1023 participants. The results showed the awareness level of symptoms associated with kidney stones at 29%, complications at 34%, diagnosis at 51%, and treatment at 16%. The results showed there was a significant association between a history of kidney stones and having no complications (p-value = 0.002) or inflammation (p-value = 0.009). However, there was no significant association between kidney stone symptoms and the participants' comorbidities. Conclusion: According to our findings, there was a low level of knowledge about the condition and the methods to prevent it, like dietary and lifestyle modifications. Regardless of the low level of general knowledge, there was some awareness of urolithiasis in some elements. Therefore, it is advised to increase health awareness campaigns.