RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Awareness of Saudi community toward multiple sclerosis in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia
JF Neurosciences Journal
JO Neurosciences (Riyadh)
FD Prince Sultan Military Medical City
SP 77
OP 84
DO 10.17712/nsj.2021.1.20200115
VO 26
IS 1
A1 Nourah A. Al-Hamdan
A1 Eman A. Al-Otaibi
A1 Manal A. Al-Mutairi
A1 Malak G. Al-Mutairi
A1 Ola A. Al-Otaibi
A1 Marwah A. Al-Mozeri
A1 Weam K. Al-Masaud
A1 Manal A. Al-Batanony
YR 2021
UL http://nsj.org.sa/content/26/1/77.abstract
AB Objectives: To evaluate the awareness of Saudis in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia on multiple sclerosis (MS).Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 Saudis in Qassim, Saudi Arabia between January 2019 and June 2019 using a pre-designed questionnaire including socio-demographic data and questions evaluating knowledge about MS.Results: The majority of studied participants were adult females (74%), between 20-30 year-old (45.1%) and with high education level or above (80.6%). Nearly one third of the studied group had good knowledge regarding MS (31.7%). Half of the studied group knew that central nervous system (CNS) is the system affected by MS, 52% reported that vitamin D deficiency, family history of MS, personal history of autoimmune disease, viruses, and obesity are the factors which increase the risk of developing MS. Approximately, 62.9% knew that blurred and double vision, numbness, paralysis or weakness and difficulty in concentration and memorizing are symptoms of MS. Female participants and those knowing someone having MS had a significant good knowledge level regarding MS than others. Getting knowledge from combined sources from internet or social media; family, friends or neighbors and health workers was significantly more prevalent among those with good knowledge.Conclusion: Most of the study participants had limited knowledge regarding MS. Planning health education programs for the public is essential.