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PUBLIC AWARENESS ABOUT KIDNEY STONE DISEASE CAUSES, MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTION METHODS AMONG ADULT SAUDI POPULATION

Hanin A. Shalaby*, Rawan A. Obaid, Noura A. Baroom, Dr. Suhair Al-Tayyar, Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Ghamdi

Background: Kidney stone disease (KSD) is a significant health problem that represents a recurrent condition with a major impact on a patient’s quality of life. Kidney stones (KS) are described as a hard deposit of minerals and salts formed inside the kidneys. Methods: This study employs a descriptive research method, using an online cross-sectional community-based survey to assess the level of public awareness and knowledge of KSD. The survey was applied to a Saudi adult population during the period from June to September 2019. Results: Participants had a poor practice score (8.82 out of a possible 23 units). Although the vast majority of the participants (86%) were aware that drinking plenty of fluids prevents the formation of stones, only 6% were correct about barley and 12% were correct about cranberry juice (as preventing the formation of stones) Conclusions: To summarize, it was found that the majority of the participants in this study showed moderate knowledge when it comes to KS disease, causes, symptoms, risk factors and prevention methods; however, there was poor management in their practice. Keywords: Kidney stone, KS, public awareness, stone prevention, KSD in Saudi Arabia.