Albaqshi Hussain M, Al-Qattan Ali H, Alhadab Ali H, Al-Elaiwi Ali H, Alsaqer Hussain S, Alokley Alia A
Department of Clinical Neurosciences, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
J Family Med Prim Care. 2025 Jun;14(6):2273-2279. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1838_24. Epub 2025 Jun 30.
This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and understanding of multiple sclerosis (MS) among the adult population in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
This cross-sectional investigation employed a previously validated online self-administered survey disseminated via social media to Saudi residents of Al-Ahsa. The study included adult residents of Al-Ahsa, with the exception of health care professionals and medical students. A total of 385 participants were recruited for the study.
The study population predominantly consisted of young adults, with individuals aged 18-24 years accounting for 41% of the participants. A slight gender disparity was observed, with males (52.7%) constituting the majority. The findings revealed a general lack of understanding of MS among the participants, including limited knowledge of affected organs, risk factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment options.
This study revealed low awareness of MS among participants, which may delay diagnosis and access to care. Improving public education regarding MS symptoms and treatment is crucial for early detection and better outcomes. Healthcare providers should raise awareness through nationwide, inclusive educational campaigns targeting the entire population.
本研究旨在评估沙特阿拉伯艾哈萨成年人群对多发性硬化症（MS）的认知和理解。
本横断面调查采用了一项先前验证过的在线自填式调查问卷，通过社交媒体分发给艾哈萨的沙特居民。该研究纳入了艾哈萨的成年居民，但医疗保健专业人员和医学生除外。总共招募了385名参与者进行该研究。
研究人群主要由年轻人组成，年龄在18 - 24岁的个体占参与者的41%。观察到轻微的性别差异，男性（52.7%）占多数。研究结果显示参与者对MS普遍缺乏了解，包括对受影响器官、危险因素、诊断方法和治疗选择的了解有限。
本研究表明参与者对MS的认知度较低，这可能会延迟诊断和获得治疗的机会。改善关于MS症状和治疗的公众教育对于早期发现和更好的治疗效果至关重要。医疗保健提供者应通过针对全体人群的全国性、包容性教育活动来提高认知度。
